When you hear about air pollution, you probably think of smoke emitted from industrial operations. You may not realize it, but, as the EPA notes, your indoor air could be more polluted than the outdoor air, even if you live in a large, industrialized city. Read on to learn about three common things that threaten the indoor air quality in your Raleigh, NC home.
1. Dirty Ducts
Every time your HVAC system draws air from outside, it also pulls in dust that threatens your indoor air. The dust circulates inside your ductwork and across your home. If left for a long time, the dust accumulates inside the ducts and prevents airflow.
Dirty ductwork forces your system to work harder than it should to maintain your desired comfort levels. As a result, it consumes more energy and increases your monthly utility bills. To solve such issues, HVAC experts recommend periodic cleaning of ductwork and regular maintenance.
2. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Although you may not see volatile organic compounds, they emit a distinct odor. VOCs are gases and vapors that come from chemicals such as disinfectants, paints and aerosol sprays.
These chemicals lower your indoor air quality and cause health issues such as nausea and headaches. Additionally, prolonged exposure to VOCs may damage vital body organs and increase the risks of cancer. To keep your family safe, invest in ventilation to reduce the concentration of VOCs.
3. Dirty Air Filters
The purpose of air filters is to prevent air pollutants such as dust and pollen from entering your living space. However, a dirty filter will allow entry of these air pollutants and lower your indoor air quality. The air pollutants, if inhaled, could trigger health issues such as allergies and asthma.
If ignored, air filters could also clog with dirt and reduce airflow, forcing your system to work harder than it should. For this reason, we recommend changing your air filters monthly.
To keep your household safe from harmful air pollutants, invest in HVAC upgrades that can help clean the air you breathe at home. For more information about our indoor air quality services, contact Cape Fear Air, Electric, & Plumbing.
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