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The Importance of Indoor Air Quality

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Here at Fresh Aire Duct Cleaning we have become known for our top-notch duct cleaning. We have been providing clean air to the residents and businesses of Los Angeles for over 35 years. In this article we are going to go over some of the short and long-term effects which can be brought about when the quality of your air degrades, and how you can safeguard your family against pollutants and allergens.

SHORT-TERM EFFECTS

Most of us spend a majority of our time indoors these days. Due to repeated exposure to air pollutants (volatile organic compounds, mold, etc.) in our homes, offices, and schools, we are at risk of developing an array of significant health problems. Let’s start by looking at the potential short-term effects of contact with air pollutants and allergens:

  • Headaches
  • Nosebleeds
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Confusion and loss of coordination
  • Skin reactions and allergies
  • Nausea and/or vomiting
  • Eye, nose, and throat irritation

LONG-TERM EFFECTS

It is important that you locate and eliminate the source of air pollutants in your home or business. If your exposure becomes prolonged, you may start to see some of the following long-term effects:

  • Damage to the heart, liver, or kidneys
  • Asthma
  • Damage to the central nervous system
  • Or even cancer

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR FAMILY

No one wants their loved ones to have to go through the ailments listed above. These afflictions can be avoided by taking the proper precautions in your home (and at your place of work). According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency the most effective way to reduce indoor air pollution is to find and remove the sources of the harmful pollutants.

Here are the some of the most common causes of indoor air pollution:

  1. Asbestos – This is one of the top causes of indoor air pollution. Asbestos can be located in various materials common to the automotive and home construction industries. Paints, coatings, and tiles will very often contain asbestos. Old homes are especially likely to have higher quantities of asbestos.
  2. Radon – While generally located in various types of bedrock beneath your home, radon can eventually find its way up into your walls.
  3. Formaldehyde – This is another significant source of indoor air pollution. Production of formaldehyde was banned in the U.S. in 1970, but can still be found in paints, sealants, and wood floors.
  4. Carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide – These nasty chemicals are let out by wood stoves, space heaters, and fireplaces.
  5. Tobacco smoke – Smoking indoors or allowing outdoor smoke to drift inside can be a major cause of indoor air pollution.
  6. Mildew, mold, bacteria, and dust mites – Many of these can find their way into your house from outside. Once in your home they can endlessly circulate through your homes air system if not removed.

Here are a few steps you can take to immediately start safeguarding your home against indoor air pollution:

  1. Quit smoking and make your home a “No Smoking” zone – This may seem like a very difficult task to those who smoke, but it will go a long way in preserving your family’s health.
  2. Have your home checked for asbestos – This is especially important if your home was built before the ban of asbestos.
  3. Check your cleaning solutions – Make sure you check the ingredients of the cleaning solutions you are using. You want to primarily use environmentally friendly materials for cleaning whenever possible.
  4. Stop using gas stoves and space heaters – This will considerably decrease the amount of carbon monoxide, and nitrogen dioxide in your home.
  5. Use a high-quality vacuum on your floors – A vacuum with strong brushes and powerful suction is a must for keeping your air pure. By vacuuming high-traffic areas regularly you can cut down a lot of the dust mites, and allergens in your home.
  6. Have your air ducts professionally cleaned regularly – This is an integral part of removing the toxins, pollutants, and allergens which are all ready circulating through your homes air system.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT FRESH AIRE

Contact us today to find out more about our company and how we can help you get your air system blowing clean air again.

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