Most homeowners assume that their homes are safe from air pollution because they are not exposed to industrial processes or exhaust fumes. Unfortunately, residential spaces are not safe from the detriment of low air quality. There are numerous contaminants which can be found in houses, and these can cause health problems, particularly of the respiratory nature. If you would like to improve your indoor air quality, it is crucial to understand these contaminants. Here are some of the most common pollutants that you should know and guidelines on preventing them.

Mold

Mold is a group of fungi that grows naturally in most environments. In most instances, its existence is harmless, but there are some species which can be dangerous. If you are planning on improving your indoor air quality, it is prudent to ensure that there are no harmless or hazardous fungal growths in your house. Molds reproduce by spores which are small seed-like units. If these are inhaled, they will cause coughing, throat irritation, eye soreness and wheezing. They can also trigger attacks in asthmatic individuals. Fortunately, you can limit and prevent the mold growth in your home by controlling moisture and humidity. For the best results, you should fix plumbing leakages and wipe spills immediately and invest in a humidifier.

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is a common pollutant in residential spaces. This can be defined as an odorless gas which is produced when fossil fuels are not combusted properly. This gas is dangerous because it binds to the red blood cells and forms a stable unit known as carboxyhemoglobin. This impedes the cells' ability to transport oxygen around the body efficiently. Consequently, if you are exposed to carbon monoxide, you will experience problems such as dizziness, headache, heart palpitations, nausea, and fatigue. You should ensure that all your combustion appliances such as heaters, stoves, and fireplaces are installed correctly. Also, when using these devices, ensure that they are well ventilated.

Tobacco Smoke

Second-hand tobacco smoke is a significant pollutant in the indoor home environment. This contaminant is linked to many long-term and short-term effects when allowed to circulate. The most obvious short-term effects of exposure to tobacco smoke include throat and nose irritation and even asthma attacks. Prolonged exposure could lead to bronchitis, pneumonia, and cancer. You should impose a strict anti-smoking policy inside your house to prevent these detriments.

Consider consulting an air quality expert for guidance and control of these and other harmful pollutants in the home.

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