Indoor air pollution - is it a problem? Everyone knows about air pollution affecting urban
areas and industrial regions. Mexico City and Southeast Asia have hit the headlines. But
wherever there are cities and industry there is pollution, from industrial effluents and the
omnipresent automobile.
But indoors? The fact is that indoor air can be one hundred times more polluted than
outdoor air. As the majority of people spend up to 90% of their time indoors, this is a
cause for concern.
"Sick building syndrome" is a phenomenon which emerged in the 1970s when, to conserve
energy as well as to provide a more comfortable draught-free environment, many naturally
ventilated buildings were superceded by airtight air-conditioned buildings. It is used to describe a situation in which a substantial proportion of a building's occupants report a number of symptoms while occupying that building. It is estimated that as many as one third of U.S. buildings suffer from sick building syndrome. Symptoms experienced by people vary as widely as drowsiness, lethargy, nausea, headaches,
nosebleeds, dizziness and respiratory problems.
What are the sources of indoor air pollution?
Tobacco smoke is a major culprit, with its lethal cocktail of toxic chemicals. Insulation, synthetic fabrics, treated wood and carpets, especially when new, release potentially harmful chemicals, such as formaldehyde, into the air. When this air is recycled indefinitely, high concentration levels can be reached. Printers and copiers emit toxic gases. Then there are chemicals used in the manufacture of
computers, especially those added to VDUs as fire retardants, which emit high levels of
pollutants when new. Even cleaning solvents make their contribution to the pollution. In
some cases, prolonged exposure to this mixture can cause chemical sensitivities which may be
difficult to cure.
How can indoor air pollution be dealt with?
Potted plants can improve room air quality. They reduce levels of carbon dioxide and increase oxygen levels. Among the most effective are spider plants, rubber plants and yucca. Plants can even be used to monitor pollution. Plants can wither from pollutants before people start to sicken from them.
Regular maintenance of air conditioning systems is essential in centrally-controlled air
conditioned buildings. This should include coil, fins and filters for the equipment to
function effectively. The most important maintenance task is cleaning or replacement of
filters. Not only do clogged, dirty filters block normal air flow, but also can directly
reduce the effective working life of the equipment. Not to be overlooked is the correct
installation of air-conditioning systems in the first place. Air intake ducts need to be
properly located. If they are placed in polluted areas, the system will actually bring
polluted air into the building.
1. Keep your Windows Open
First of all, you should make it a habit to keep some of your windows open for a couple of hours during the day or night. The idea is to prevent air pollutants from getting trapped in your rooms.
It is a great idea to open windows on the opposite side of your bedroom if possible. This is one of the best ways to create proper air circulation in your rooms.
2. Use a Vacuum Cleaner Frequently
As for as purchasing a vacuum is concerned, we suggest that you prefer one that comes with a HEPA certified bag. The beauty of these devices is that they can do a better job of trapping dust particles. So, make sure that you spend a little bit more money and get a device that can cover your needs.
3. Change Air Filters
Like all types of devices and machines, your HVAC equipment requires regular maintenance for proper functioning. As far as the type of filters are concerned, we suggest that you invest in a specific filter as they perform much better than regular filters.
4. Use an Exhaust Fan
It is better that you install an exhaust fan, especially in your kitchen. If you can afford it, you can install exhaust fans in your bath and laundry rooms as well. So, what you need to do is switch your exhaust fan on before you use your oven or start the burners.
Also, you may want to let the exhaust running for a while after you are done cooking. This is a great idea as far as ventilation is concerned.
5. Use Candles Sparingly
It is better that you use your candles only when you really have to. The problem is that candles produce smoke and pollute your indoor air. So, you may want to use candles when you have no other options.
Long story short, we suggest that you follow these expert tips and methods for improving your indoor air.
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