Indoor Air Quality Testing
What You Need to Know About Indoor Air Quality Testing and Your Health
At Mr. Dry Services, we have provided Indoor Air Quality Testing in Southwest Florida since 1999. With our years of experience, we can confirm there are many potential causes of poor indoor air quality. The most common sign that you may have indoor air quality issues is the presence of an odor in your home or business. Aside from the fact that a detectable odor is unpleasant, it can also be unhealthy. When exposed to an air quality issue, you may experience symptoms of fatigue, headaches, dizziness, nausea, as well as eye, nose and throat irritation. Factors such as age, or preexisting conditions like asthma, or other respiratory issues can cause more severe symptoms to the pollutants in the air. Don’t let poor indoor air quality effect your health and quality of life! Contact our team today for fast, reliable service.
The Importance of Your Indoor Air Quality
The HVAC system of your home or business is an essential part to creating a clean and refreshing atmosphere. Because these systems continually recirculate the air in your building, the quality of the air can have a big impact on the health and wellbeing of yourself, family and guests, or employees and customers. If you have low air quality, you may suffer from higher moisture levels, hidden harmful chemicals, and microorganisms. Overtime, these factor can lead to higher risk of respiratory illnesses and various chronic conditions.
What are The 5 Most Common Causes of Poor Indoor Air Quality?
Mold Mildew and Bacteria
Mold, mildew and bacteria thrive in environments that offer warm, humid air. Considering we live in Florida, humidity and heat are prevalent nearly year-round. There are many potential sources of dampness in your home from leaking pipes under sinks, in your laundry area, in walls, your homes water heater, showers and tubs, and even leaks in your roof that allow moisture to collect in your attic. Your home’s HVAC duct work if not properly sealed is also a prime breeding ground for molds. The good news is this source of poor air quality can usually be found through visual inspection.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCS)
Every home or business contains products and sources of VOCS. Perhaps you’ve installed new carpeting which leaves a noticeable odor that can last for weeks or longer. Installing a new shower curtain you will detect a noticeable chemical smell. Household cleaners, paint, furniture and combustion related appliances all are creators of VOCS. While most individuals will not be affected by these forms of VOCS, other far more dangerous carcinogens, such as formaldehyde and asbestos can also be present in your home or business. While asbestos is not used with the same frequency it once was due to its association with lung cancer, mesothelioma and other chronic conditions, older homes or businesses still likely contain asbestos. If you suspect you have an asbestos problem, do not disturb the source. Instead contact a trained professional like the inspectors at Mr Dry.
Dust, Dander & Pest Droppings
Not as well known as mold or mildew, other biological agents like insects and rodents can also contribute to odors and health risks. Urine and droppings produce allergenic problems. It isn’t always as obvious as we don’t always see roaches, dust mites or rodents like mice. If you do, you likely have an infestation and should address immediately. All of these can create odors leading to respiratory problems. When a home’s HVAC system doesn’t function properly it can contribute to a rise in humidity. High humidity within your HVAC ducts will encourage the growth of mold, but also creates the perfect environment for dust mites and other pests to thrive.
Pesticides
If you know you have a problem with insects or rodents the solution likely involves the use of pesticides. While this can alleviate one source of poor indoor air quality it can lead to another. Because pesticides are toxic to begin with, their use, especially their improper use, can contribute to higher than normal levels of airborne VOCS.
Carbon Monoxide & Nitrogen Dioxide
Any combustion appliance in the home such as a gas stove, space heater or fireplace can be a source contributing to poor indoor air quality. Carbon monoxide CO and nitrogen dioxide NO2 along with particle matter that enters your homes air space can cause symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and shortness of breath contributing to lung infections and emphysema. While NO2 produces as acrid odor, CO is odorless and can only be detected by having properly installed CO alarms or through professional testing.
How Our Team Can Help You Gain Control of the Quality of Your Air
