Multi-Family & Residential Experience
Indoor air pollution comes in all shapes and sizes.
There are many sources of indoor air pollution in any home. Poor ventilation and specific sources of contaminants in the home cause most indoor air problems. Below we’ve explained the most common sources of indoor air contaminants. You may be surprised to find out that many products you use or actions you take everyday can be contributing to diminished indoor environmental quality. Pure Air Controls Services is here to help. If you have a, indoor air quality related question please let us know.
Bioaerosols
Biological contaminants in the home may include mold, bacteria, viruses, dust mites, insect biodetritus, cockroach allergens, fiberglass fibers, and pollen. Bioaerosols released into the air can be distributed throughout the home by the HVAC system. Bioaerosols can cause infectious diseases such as Legionnaires’ disease. They also can cause allergic reactions, including hypersensitivity pneumonitis, allergic rhinitis, and some types of asthma. Symptoms caused by biological pollutants include sneezing, eye irritation, coughing, dizziness, and respiratory infections.
Factors that can contribute to the growth of biological contaminants are wet or moist building materials (carpeting, ceilings, walls) and poorly maintained humidifiers, dehumidifiers, and air conditioners. “Humidifier fever” is a common illness caused by improper maintenance of humidifiers that can produce fever, chills, headaches, and persistent coughs. Various fungi and bacteria grow quickly in the warm, stagnant water inside humidifiers. During operation, these contaminants can be distributed into the air and inhaled by the building occupants. Other possible sources of biological contaminants are pets and household plants.
Combustion Products
Automobile exhaust, furnaces, water heaters, space heaters, scented candles, oil lamps, wood stoves, fireplaces, and gas stoves that are not properly vented can generate carbon monoxide, nitric oxide, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, formaldehyde, and respirable particulates which may result in eye, nose, and throat irritation; fatigue; dizziness; and nausea.
Organic Vapors
Many household products release organic vapors that can cause adverse health effects. These effects may include nose and throat irritation, headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Products containing these vapors include paints, strippers, fuels, solvents, pesticides, hobby supplies, cleaners, deodorizers, and disinfectants. Formaldehyde is another organic vapor that can cause similar symptoms. Formaldehyde can be found in new construction materials, such as plywood, paneling, fiberboard, and particle board, and in cigarette smoke and many consumer products.
Ventilation
Poor indoor air quality is generally caused by the lack of adequate ventilation, which results in a buildup of contaminants from sources within the home.
Multi-Family Experience In Their Own Words
Family, VA & Occupational Medicine
“I wish to give an outstanding commendation for each of the Pure Air Control Services employees. Each alone is outstanding in work of remediation and outstanding working together as a team, examples for others to emulate.”
— Dr. Larry Hawkins, MD (Voted “One of Americas Top family Doctors for Family, VA & Occupational Medicine”)