Indoor Air Quality Isn’t Just About Humidity and Allergens

October 19, 2015

You may be surprised to learn that poor indoor air quality can be an unexpected side effect of tightening your home and making it more energy efficient. Modern heating and air conditioning systems are very good at maintaining comfortable temperature and humidity levels in your home. You can control many allergens by choosing an efficient air filter and changing or cleaning it frequently. There are three potentially deadly pollutants that seriously affect indoor air quality, and that your HVAC system won’t be able to eliminate.

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning kills or sickens many across the United States every year. It is a colorless, odorless gas that is a by-product of incomplete fuel combustion. Leaks from your furnace, stove, and generator can allow dangerous CO to enter your home. The following steps can protect your family from CO poisoning:

Have your furnace and other fuel-burning appliances inspected thoroughly, and ensure that gases are vented safely to the outside of your house. Signing up for regular maintenance with your HVAC company is one way to ensure that your equipment remains in good working condition throughout the year.
Never leave your car running inside your garage, even with the garage door open.
Install CO detectors on every floor of your home.

Secondhand Smoke

Children and people with asthma or other respiratory problems shouldn’t be exposed to tobacco smoke. You should not allow smoking inside your house, especially if there is someone with respiratory illnesses. Other sources of smoke inside your home are also harmful, so be sure your fireplace or wood stove is kept clean and that smoke is effectively pulled through the chimney.

Radon Gas

Radon gas occurs naturally and seeps into homes from soil and rocks beneath the foundation. Have your home tested for radon. Lower rooms such as basements are particularly vulnerable. Ensure such rooms are well-sealed.

Be aware of other possible air quality problems. Older homes may have problems with asbestos and lead paint. Be aware of hazardous chemicals from new construction materials, paint, furniture and carpeting.

Contact the indoor air quality experts at Wood Air Conditioning & Plumbing, Inc. for effective solutions to your indoor air quality problems. Call us today at 903-285-6550, for more information or to schedule an appointment.