4 Indoor Air Pollutants and How to Remove Them in Wilmington, NC

Whether you work from home or love spending time in your house, you must maintain good indoor air quality in your Wilmington, NC home for your health. Learn more about four of the most common indoor air pollutants and how to eliminate them today.

1. Pet Dander

Having pets in your home is a great way to experience the companionship that comes from a furry or feathered friend. However, dogs, cats, other small mammals and birds can produce pet dander. Dander refers to tiny particles of skin that these animals shed.

Reducing pet dander begins with regularly grooming your pets, preferably outside. It’s also crucial that you choose the right type of shampoo to help reduce shedding and the spreading of dander. Additionally, vacuuming carpets and upholstery regularly helps you eliminate dander, hair and other allergens from gathering in your home.

It’s also a good idea to invest in quality IAQ solutions. Air purifiers, cleaners and the right type of HVAC filters can work together to keep your air healthy.

2. Dust and Other Allergens

When it comes to indoor air pollution, there is no more prevalent problem than dust. It’s everywhere, and no matter how often you dust your house, you cannot keep it from coming back. Activities such as opening your windows, walking across the carpet or sitting on upholstered furniture can stir up dust.

Seasonal changes, high pollen counts, and poor ventilation can all make dust and allergen buildup worse. Keeping dust and allergens under control requires a combination of cleaning and preventive measures. Regularly dusting surfaces with a damp cloth, vacuuming with a HEPA-filter vacuum and washing bedding in hot water can significantly reduce allergen levels in your home.

It’s also a good idea to invest in indoor air quality products. Finally, be sure you’re regularly replacing your HVAC system’s filters. Together, these tips help you minimize the amount of dust and other allergens floating around your home.

3. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

You may not be aware, but some substances for cleaning your home can harm your indoor air quality. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are harmful gases released by certain solids and liquids, often in everyday household products, many of which might surprise you. Everything from the paint on your walls to the cleaning substances can emit VOCs into the air.

There are some physical side effects associated with these compounds. Short-term exposure to high VOC levels can cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, eye irritation, and respiratory discomfort, while long-term exposure may lead to more serious health issues.

Fortunately, avoiding VOCs is as easy as making wise decisions about what you bring into your home. When you’re shopping for cleaning products, paint and other materials, look for those marked VOC-free. If you can’t find VOD-free alternatives, you can usually find options that have a low-VOC sticker, or you can at least ventilate your space well when using.

4. Secondhand Smoke

Cigarette smoke contains thousands of harmful chemicals, all of which can harm your indoor air quality. Many of the toxins released by cigarette smoke are toxic or carcinogenic. Even short-term exposure can cause eye irritation, headaches and respiratory discomfort, while long-term exposure increases the risk of serious conditions such as heart disease, lung cancer and asthma.

Because smoke particles are so small, it’s easy for them to linger in the air for hours or even days. The most effective way to prevent smoke from polluting the air in your home is to have a strict no-smoking policy inside your house. While not smoking at all is the best option, for those who can’t shake the habit, smoking outside and away from doors and windows is the best way to protect IAQ.

Protecting your indoor air quality is a responsible, safe choice. One of the best ways to protect your IAQ is to identify potential sources of air pollution and remove them. For help with your IAQ, call Airmax Heating & Cooling to ask about our other HVAC services.

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