Pollution levels are rising on a massive scale. Persistent pollution is affecting our outer atmosphere and causing global warming. However, it doesn't end there. UN Environment reports that nearly 4.3 million people die from bad indoor air quality yearly.
Modern HVAC technology makes it easier to maintain healthy air quality inside homes. Still, you can't rely too much on technology and disregard air quality. Here is why checking indoor air quality is essential for your home.
IMPROVE INDOOR AIR QUALITY
It isn't easy to know when the air you breathe has become harmful to you. It's caused by improper ventilation, insufficient cleaning, and not maintaining HVAC systems.
There is no clear indication of whether the air you breathe is unsuitable. This happens if the air quality in the whole area is terrible. In such cases, diseases develop over time, and can take years before properly identifying the cause.
KEEP POLLUTANTS AT BAY
The majority of Americans spend a significant amount of time inside their homes. It's easy for gases, smoke, chemicals, and other pollutants to accumulate in your home. These pollutants get trapped inside your walls.
Some of the most common indoor pollutants are:
COMBUSTIBLE POLLUTANTS
Gases such as nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide are released from burning material. It can also leak from poorly ventilated fuel-burning appliances. You should check whether appliances like stoves, dryers, or heaters pollute your home with dangerous gases.
SECOND-HAND SMOKE
Smoking isn't only dangerous for smokers; it's also harmful to people nearby. Tobacco smoke is a serious indoor pollutant. Without proper ventilation, it can accumulate on your walls and ceiling. The smoke can worsen symptoms for people who have asthma.
RADON
Radon is a radioactive gas that can become a part of your indoor atmosphere. It is found in all homes in the US. It comes from the decomposition of Uranium in the Earth's soil. Experts consider it to be the second leading cause of lung cancer in the world. It can move up into your house through cracks in your home's foundation. EPA recommends testing radon levels in your home before buying it.
PREVENT HEALTH HAZARDS
Various health hazards arise from poor indoor air quality. Some may come up after a single exposure, while others take time.
Health hazards arising immediately from poor air quality are short-term. These include headaches, eye irritations, and other problems caused by allergies. You can treat them by eliminating exposure to pollutants.
However, some effects can be symptoms of serious underlying problems. These problems are developed over time and result from extended exposure to harmful air. They can cause respiratory diseases, heart problems, and, in worst cases, even cancer.
Poor air quality can have grave consequences. However, a good HVAC system can significantly improve air quality and provide clean and healthy air. If you want an HVAC installation in your home, contact a reliable HVAC service.
MileHi HVAC has everything covered for you. We are here for you, from checking indoor quality to HVAC repair and installation.
You can schedule an appointment online. If you have an emergency, you can also give us a call at (720) 770-0055.