How a Professional Measures Indoor Air Pollution

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air quality (IAQ) should be a concern for homeowners because concentrations of air pollutants can often be two to three times higher inside your home than outdoors. In addition, they have stated that while home air monitors are available, no reliable research indicates these devices accurately measure indoor air quality. If you are concerned about your IAQ, the best course of action may be to hire an HVAC professional to test the air quality in your home. Here are some of the ways professionals measure indoor air pollution. VOC Meters VOC stands for Volatile Organic Compounds, which are emitted by many household materials and liquids as a gas. During an assessment, professionals can use a VOC meter to measure the concentration of these gases in your home. They use the device to detect things like formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene, which are chemicals shown to lead to health issues. SO2 Meter Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is a common pollutant found in the air both indoors and outdoors. It’s produced from burning fossil fuels and can be a significant health problem in enclosed spaces. SO2 meters give a real-time readout, so a technician can give you...

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Using Air Purifiers for Allergy Relief

If you always keep a box of tissues close at hand, there’s a good chance that you’re an allergy sufferer. Perhaps you find yourself sniffling all day long. If indoor allergens could be part of the problem, then an air purifier might help. Causes of Indoor Allergies The air in your home looks clean, but it may be harboring irritating contaminants. They can include: Cockroach droppings Dead skin flakes Dust mite droppings Mold spores Pet dander Pollen Together, we simply refer to these particles as “dust.” While dust can settle on surfaces, it can also float through the air you breathe. Breathing in dust particles can trigger allergy symptoms. Benefits of Air Purifiers Since dusty air can cause allergy problems, purifying the air may be part of the solution. Air purifiers have filters to trap tiny particles, keeping them from traveling through your interior air. You’ll be able to take cleaner breaths that don’t make your allergy symptoms flare up. Some air purifiers also use UV light to destroy living contaminants, such as mold spores. By damaging the mold’s DNA, the air purifier keeps these particles from reproducing. That way, they will no longer fill your home with their allergy-inducing...

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