Indoor air quality (IAQ) refers to the air quality inside buildings. It affects the health and comfort of everyone inside. It is influenced by gases like carbon monoxide and radon, by particulates, and by microbial contaminants like mold and bacteria.
Key health impacts
Poor IAQ causes immediate effects like headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and allergic reactions. Long-term exposure raises the risk of respiratory disease, heart conditions, and cancer. Beyond physical health, good air supports cognitive function, sleep, and overall well-being.
Common indoor pollutants
Biological sources include mold from moisture, seasonal pollen, pet dander, and dust mites.
Chemical pollutants include volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from paints and air fresheners, formaldehyde in wood products, and carbon monoxide from gas appliances.
Combustion pollutants come from improperly vented heating equipment. This is one of several reasons regular furnace maintenance matters.
Outdoor pollutants like pesticides, lead particles, and radon can find their way inside.
Improvement strategies
Source control is the most effective. Identify and eliminate the pollution source.
Additional measures:
- Increase ventilation through fans and open windows
- Use air cleaners
- Maintain humidity between 30 to 50%
- Schedule regular HVAC maintenance (catches air-quality-affecting issues like dirty coils or duct contamination)
- Incorporate houseplants as natural purifiers
Economic value
Good IAQ reduces medical expenses, supports productivity, and maintains property values. Poor workplace air quality decreases productivity and increases absenteeism. Investing in improved air quality benefits health and finances.
If your home's air quality has been on your mind, a maintenance plan keeps your HVAC system contributing to clean air rather than degrading it.
