When it comes to indoor air quality, people tend to have an out-of-sight-out-of-mind approach toward the indoor air quality of their homes. The inconvenient truth is that your air quality may not be as safe as you imagine, as New Jersey is one of two states with mandatory indoor air regulations. These are five indoor air quality characteristics that you should be attentive to as a homeowner.
Radon
Radon is a naturally occurring, radioactive gas that can accumulate in enclosed places and is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. Radon migrates organically through the earth and can enter a house through cracks or other partial openings and build up to hazardous levels. Radon gas is invisible and odorless, so the only way to detect the presence of radon is through preventative maintenance. The REME HALO system is also proven to mitigate Radon gas effectively.
Humidity and Moisture
Accumulation of water and moisture within your home can come from various places. Water can enter your home from your basement floors, leaky showers, appliances, and even cooking without proper ventilation. The most basic approach to managing these elements is ventilation, especially in rooms that build up the most moisture. Dehumidifiers and HVAC systems significantly reduce and, in some cases, eliminate humidity and moisture without cooling down your home.
Pets
The general populace usually assumes that pet allergies are due to their favorite family pet, but it tends to be more complicated. It’s a combination of pet dander and the various proteins found within your pet’s saliva and excretions. A good rule of thumb is always to consider that your family pet contributes to your home’s overall indoor air quality. So, beyond proper grooming, installing high-quality air filters such as the REME HALO Air Purifier or the PremiereOne REME HALO Air Purification System which will vacuum the air throughout your home, decreasing these pet allergens with zero risk to your family or your furry friend.
Carbon Monoxide
In addition to Radon, Carbon Monoxide is also an odorless, colorless, and highly toxic gas. Being that it’s impossible to see, taste or smell, CO poisoning can spell as fatal before you’re even conscious of its existence. There are methods to mitigate exposure to CO; with the first fundamental step consisting of not idling your vehicles in enclosed spaces without proper ventilation. Additionally, you must use adequate fuel and repair any leaks as soon as possible. The best viable option for those concerned about their CO levels and their indoor air quality is hiring a trained professional to clean and tune-up your HVAC systems annually.
Dust
Household dust is a biological pollutant, and its roots are in living organisms. Dust includes pollen, microscopic pests known as dust mites, and dead skin. Dust settles and resettles within your dwelling every day, whether opening a window or replacing your old filters. Health issues can arise from excessive dust and, in some extreme cases, are life-threatening. RGF’s award-winning REME HALO Air Purification system assists with daily filtration and eliminates 99% of viruses, mold, and bacteria by producing a Hydro-Peroxide plasma that sweeps through the conditioned areas of the home, purifying the air and surfaces.
Volatile Chemicals
Volatile organic compounds or VOCs have high vapor pressure and low water solubility. In most applications, VOCs are human-designed chemical compounds used and produced in the production of paint, pharmaceuticals, and refrigerants. (i.e., gasoline, pesticides, and paint) VOCs can be emitted as gasses or liquids and include chemicals that may have short or long-term health effects. VOC concentration is regularly higher indoors. As such, VOCs should be stored in a well-ventilated area, and ventilation needs to be significantly increased when using products that emit VOCs as the chemicals emitted can cause debilitating effects and, in some cases, can be life-threatening.
When you have concerns about what could possibly be affecting your indoor air quality– be sure to be on the lookout for these six main factors that will directly affect your indoor air quality. Remember, in addition to installing a proper air filtration system, it’s also essential to maintain your HVAC systems annually as well.
Coastal Refrigeration Corp offers many solutions for improving your homes’ quality of life. For any further information about your home’s indoor air quality, or installation of HVAC systems please contact us today!