Tackling Toxic Particulates: Dealing with PM2.5 in Your Chicago Home

Biohazard Clean Up

Chicagoland’s residents are no strangers to air quality concerns, but one invisible threat often goes unnoticed: airborne particulate matter only 1/40th the width of a human hair, or PM2.5 for short.

When disaster strikes your home — whether it’s a fire, flood, or severe storm — visible damage is just part of the problem. Microscopic invaders, such as fungal spores and PM2.5 contaminants, can linger and cause poor indoor air quality (IAQ) and serious health issues when inhaled. 

For property owners in Chicago, dealing with airborne particulate matter is crucial to ensuring your loved ones remain safe and healthy. Children, the elderly, and people suffering from heart or lung disease, asthma, or chronic illness are most sensitive to the effects of PM2.5 exposure.

Here’s what you need to know about these toxic particulates and how to eradicate them effectively.

Understanding the Invisible Menace

PM2.5 refers to particulate matter that is 2.5 micrometers or smaller in diameter. These very fine, almost microscopic particles can penetrate deep into your lungs and even enter your bloodstream, causing a range of health issues. 

The Greater Chicagoland region has struggled with air pollution for decades, and while the situation has improved somewhat recently, ozone and particulate matter still pose a serious public health threat, according to the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning. 

The city’s proximity to major industrial hubs, coupled with its dense traffic patterns, creates a fertile breeding ground for airborne particulates. Temperature inversions, common during certain seasons, can trap these pollutants near the ground, leading to increased indoor and outdoor concentrations.

Organic compounds forming PM2.5 can be emitted by natural sources, such as wildfires, pets, and decaying vegetation, as well as from other events:

The health effects of PM2.5 exposure can be severe, especially for vulnerable populations. Short-term exposure can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, as well as cause coughing and shortness of breath. Long-term exposure has been linked to more serious conditions, such as:

  • Increased risk of heart attacks and strokes
  • Worsening of asthma and COPD
  • Reduced lung function
  • Higher likelihood of developing lung cancer
  • Potential neurological effects, including cognitive decline

In the aftermath of a fire or flood in your Chicago home, these harmful particulates can spread quickly and settle into the very air you and your family breathe.

Air pollution, in all forms, is responsible for more than 6.5 million deaths each year globally. Professional air testing by PuroClean of Evanston’s 24/7 emergency team can confirm the presence and concentration of these contaminants in your household environment.

Strategies for Reducing PM2.5 in Your Home

Many of Chicago’s historic homes, particularly in neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, and Hyde Park, feature older heating systems and building materials that can generate and trap airborne contaminants. The city’s aging infrastructure can also contribute to water damage incidents that spawn mold-related particulates.

Eradicating PM2.5 requires a multi-faceted approach. Here are some cutting-edge strategies for improving your indoor air quality:

1. Invest in Air Purification

HEPA, or high-efficiency particulate air filters, are excellent at capturing PM2.5 particles. This type of air filter can theoretically remove at least 99.97% of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and any airborne particles with a size of 0.3 microns (µm).

Place them in frequently used areas of your home, such as bedrooms and living rooms, or any rooms regularly used by children or elderly family members.

2. Upgrade Your HVAC Filters

Add HEPA filters to your heating and cooling systems, and ensure they’ve been professionally cleaned after flooding or a housefire. HVAC systems and ductwork can harbor and distribute particulates throughout your home.

Look for filters with a MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) rating of 13 or higher, which can trap smaller particles more effectively.

If your home has a forced-air HVAC system, consider having your ducts professionally cleaned to remove accumulated dust and debris, which can harbor PM2.5.

3. Improve Ventilation

Proper ventilation is crucial in diluting indoor air pollutants. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, and open windows when outdoor air quality is good.

Standing, ceiling, and box fans come in a stylish variety of colors and designs and help freshen your household air as well as make your home more energy efficient.

4. Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Vacuum frequently using a state-of-the-art HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner to remove dust, pollen, and mold spores. Pay special attention to porous surfaces like upholstery, rugs, and carpets, which readily absorb (and release) PM2.5 contaminants.

Wipe surfaces with a damp cloth to prevent particles from becoming airborne. Don’t forget to clean or replace the filters in your air purifiers and HVAC systems regularly.

When to Seek Professional Help

While many PM2.5 reduction strategies can be implemented on your own, there are times when professional intervention is necessary.

After any major disaster that affects your home, it’s vital to call in the experts at PuroClean of Evanston, especially if you or your family members experience persistent respiratory issues. Our compassionate team has years of experience helping home and business owners restore their property.

When DIY efforts don’t seem to improve air quality or you detect unusual odors or visible signs of mold, we have the expertise and equipment to tackle severe PM2.5 issues effectively. We can provide comprehensive solutions to ensure your Chicago home returns to a safe, healthy environment — reach out to us today!

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