As a resident of Montreat, North Carolina, you’re probably familiar with some of the leading causes of poor indoor air quality (IAQ). You already know about the dangers of secondhand smoke, the pervasiveness of pollen, and the existence of dust mites and other microscopic particles. Still, not every factor that affects the air quality in your home is obvious or well known — including these four things you didn’t know were hurting your indoor air quality (IAQ).
The Paint on Your Walls
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be found in a variety of building materials and household supplies, are among the most common indoor air pollutants. One example is formaldehyde. Although this compound is no longer produced in the United States, it can still be found in paints and sealants.
The Cars on Your Street
The exhaust from vehicles near your home could also lower your IAQ — and it’s not just the SUV idling in your driveway that you need to worry about. If your home is near a road, vehicle emissions from passing cars can easily make their way indoors, too. Since this factor is beyond your control, a whole-home air purifier becomes even more important when you live in a busy area.
The Debris in Your Ductwork
Another common (but often overlooked) source of IAQ problems is your ductwork. This part of your HVAC system could be harboring dust, dirt, debris, and even microbial growth. To combat these contaminants, be sure to have your ductwork cleaned regularly. Alternatively, consider replacing your current HVAC setup with a ductless system.
The Radon in Your Soil
Finally, it’s a good idea to have your home tested for radon, an odorless radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer. Radon is the result of uranium decay and can be found in almost any soil. It moves into the air and enters your home, where it can be trapped by poor ventilation and build to a dangerous level.
If you think any of these pollutants may be affecting your indoor air quality, call Gentry Heating to discuss IAQ solutions for your home: 828-581-4045.
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