Indoor air quality is one of the biggest environmental problems we’re facing, even though it doesn’t get a lot of media attention. As most people spend 90% of their time indoors and indoor air is up to five times more polluted than outside air (according to the EPA), this is a rather grim outlook.
For the first blog in our two-part indoor air quality series, we’ll talk about the three leading causes of indoor air pollution. Lone Star Comfortaire, the leading HVAC replacement services company, discusses more.
Asbestos
Asbestos used to be found in most places a few decades ago, but new housing materials have abandoned it in favor of non-toxic components. Asbestos is one of the major reasons behind indoor air pollution. It is common in the automotive industry and home construction. It is found in paint, building materials, ceiling, and tile flooring. When disturbed, asbestos can break down into microscopic fibers and can remain airborne for days, which could be inhaled. It would then cause serious health problems, such as asbestosis.
To have a successful asbestos removal from your HVAC system, enlist the help of professional air conditioning contractors.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is found in paints, sealants, and wood flooring products. Next to asbestos, this is the second leading cause of indoor air pollution. They are also found in furnaces and outdated HVAC ducts. The distinctive smell of formaldehyde can irritate your eyes, nose, and throat.
Damp Environment
Mold has a detrimental effect on the air quality of your house. It is also a respiratory health hazard, which could cause allergies and asthma. Mold usually develops because of humidity, which might be due to leaks somewhere in the house, particularly your roof. To combat this you simply need adequate ventilation.
Lone Star Comfortaire can help you counter these indoor pollution causes with our quality HVAC products and services. We offer transparent customer transactions, from HVAC repair cost to actual installation. Call us at (972) 578-1701 for more information. You can also fill out our contact form to request a free project estimate. We serve homeowners in McKinney, TX, and surrounding areas.
In the next part, we’ll talk about how to improve indoor air quality.