Assuring that your home has good air is vital to your health. Poor air quality may cause allergies, respiratory disorders and other health issues. You and your loved ones can reap the benefits from testing air quality. Keep reading to find out more about what is air quality index.
Why Should I Test My Air Quality?
Health Issues: A lack of clean indoor air may lead to a number of serious health conditions, including allergies, asthma, headaches, or more severe ones over the long-term. The air quality in your home will help you identify any potential pollution sources.
Early Detection. By detecting problems with the indoor air, early you will be able to implement corrective actions. You will be able to prevent your health from deteriorating, and also save on expensive medical bills.
Environmental Awareness: Testing indoor air is a great way to become environmentally-aware. If you identify the sources of pollutants, it can be used to make adjustments in your home or lifestyle that help reduce environmental impact.
How to check air quality at Home
DIY Indoor Air Quality Tests Kits can be purchased online or from hardware stores. These kits often include the necessary materials and directions for collecting samples of air from your different rooms. They are then analysed by a laboratory and a full report is provided detailing your home’s air quality.
Professional Air Testing: A more thorough solution is to use a professional air quality test service. These professionals measure different pollutants with specialized equipment, such as VOCs. These professionals are able to provide comprehensive reports with recommendations.
Radon Testing Radon is naturally occurring gas that may seep through the ground into homes. Many kits for testing radon are available. This can tell you if the radon level in your house is high. Radon, a carcinogen that is well-known in the medical community, should be addressed immediately if it is high.
Common Indoor Air Pollutants To Test For
Particulate (PM2.5 & PM10): Sources of these fine particles include cooking, smoke, or pollution from the outdoors. Particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) can reach deep into respiratory systems, causing health problems.
Volatile Organic Compounds. VOCs come from products that are used in homes, like cleaning solutions, paints, and furniture. It can also contribute to indoor pollution and cause health issues.
Mold and Mildew. Mold spores, particularly in humid or poorly ventilated rooms are common indoor air contaminants. Mold spores can cause respiratory and allergy problems.
Carbon Monoxide is created by the combustion process and it can be harmful if its levels get too high. The gas is produced from combustion processes, such as in fireplaces, gas stoves, and furnaces.
Allergens. People with allergies or asthma can find potential triggers for their asthma and allergies by conducting tests on common allergens.
A proactive measure to improve your living conditions is to regularly test the indoor air quality. If you decide to use a DIY air test kit, or hire a professional tester, it is crucial that you understand how the indoor environment affects your health. Identification and resolution of air quality issues will allow you to enjoy a home that is safer and healthier for you and the family.