{"id":19550,"date":"2024-06-12T16:35:12","date_gmt":"2024-06-12T16:35:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/?post_type=blog&amp;p=19550"},"modified":"2024-06-12T16:35:12","modified_gmt":"2024-06-12T16:35:12","slug":"5-common-causes-of-indoor-air-pollution-and-how-to-breathe-easier","status":"publish","type":"blog","link":"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/blog\/5-common-causes-of-indoor-air-pollution-and-how-to-breathe-easier\/","title":{"rendered":"5 Common Causes of Indoor Air Pollution \u2014 and How to Breathe Easier"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>When you think of air pollution, you likely envision smog-filled skylines or vehicle exhaust. However, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.niehs.nih.gov\/health\/topics\/agents\/indoor-air\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">the air inside our homes and businesses can harbor pollutants<\/a> that are just as harmful, if not more so.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bad indoor air can pose <a href=\"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/blog\/breathing-easy-essential-strategies-for-maintaining-fresh-indoor-air-quality\/\">significant health consequences for property owners<\/a>. According to the American Lung Association, the average person spends 90% of their time inside houses, offices, schools, and other buildings, where <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lung.org\/media\/press-releases\/on-average,-americans-spend-90-of-their-time-indo\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">pollution levels can be 2 to 5 times worse than outdoor environments<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.architecture.org\/learn\/resources\/buildings-of-chicago\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Older and historic buildings, prevalent in the Chicagoland area<\/a>, can be more susceptible to air quality issues. Additionally, our seasonal variations, with cold winters and humid summers, can trap pollutants indoors and exacerbate problems.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s explore <a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/indoor-air-quality-iaq\/inside-story-guide-indoor-air-quality\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">the top 5 causes of musty, stale, or contaminated air<\/a> and provide proactive tips for creating and maintaining a healthier living and working space.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A Fungus Among Us<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Mold and mildew are perhaps the most well-known culprits of indoor air pollution. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/blog\/understanding-the-dangers-of-black-mold-health-risks-and-removal-strategies\/\">These fungi thrive in damp, humid enclosures and can release spores into the air<\/a>, causing various respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and even neurological problems.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mold growth is often <a href=\"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/blog\/the-ripple-effect-understanding-the-long-term-impact-of-water-damage\/\">a consequence of water damage, leaks, or high humidity levels<\/a>, and it&#8217;s crucial to address the underlying moisture problem to prevent its spread.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Prevention Tips<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Prompt leak repair:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hawaiidws.org\/how-to-detect-for-leaks\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Address leaks from pipes, faucets, or appliances as soon as possible<\/a> \u2014 delaying can cause expensive property damage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/coronavirus\/2019-ncov\/prevent-getting-sick\/improving-ventilation-home.html#:~:text=Here%20are%20some%20ways%20you,example%2C%20an%20extra%20hour).\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Maintain good ventilation<\/strong><\/a><strong>:<\/strong> Vent bathrooms and kitchens during and after use to remove moisture from the air.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Basement and crawlspace upgrade:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.angi.com\/articles\/how-improve-ventilation-basement-remodeling-project.htm\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Increase air movement in basements and crawlspaces<\/a>, and utilize dehumidifiers to control moisture levels.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Swift spill cleanup:<\/strong> Don&#8217;t let water sit on surfaces for extended periods.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Chemical Culprit<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are a class of chemicals found in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.health.ny.gov\/environmental\/air_quality\/vocs.htm\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">a wide range of household products, including paints, cleaning supplies, personal care products, furniture, and building materials<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These compounds can off-gas into the air, contributing to poor indoor air quality and potentially causing health problems for people and pets such as headaches, dizziness, and respiratory irritation.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bhg.com\/decorating\/paint\/how-tos\/zero-voc-paint\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Choosing low-VOC or VOC-free products and ensuring proper ventilation<\/a> can help mitigate this issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">No Smoking<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Secondhand smoke is a significant indoor air pollutant, containing <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cancer.gov\/about-cancer\/causes-prevention\/risk\/substances\/secondhand-smoke#:~:text=It%20is%20also%20called%20environmental,beryllium%2C%20chromium%2C%20and%20formaldehyde.\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">thousands of chemicals, many of which are known carcinogens<\/a>. Even if smoking occurs in a different room or area, the harmful particles can circulate through the indoor environment, posing health risks to occupants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While cigarette smoking indoors has been banned by the city of Chicago and many other municipalities, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/blog\/tobacco-and-smoke-odor-removal\/\">the odor, residue, and remaining harmful particulate matter can linger for years<\/a>, especially in older buildings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homedepot.com\/c\/ah\/how-to-change-a-home-air-filter\/9ba683603be9fa5395fab906a15a05f\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Changing air filters regularly, according to manufacturer recommendations<\/a>, helps trap smoke particles before they circulate throughout your home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Combustion byproducts, such as carbon monoxide and particulate matter, can be released into indoor air from malfunctioning or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.creia.org\/common-venting-of-gas-appliances\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">improperly vented fuel-burning appliances, like furnaces, gas stoves, water heaters, and fireplaces<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Proper maintenance and ventilation of these appliances, as well as the installation of carbon monoxide detectors, are essential for maintaining good indoor air quality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">An Invisible Underground Threat&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/news-room\/fact-sheets\/detail\/radon-and-health#:~:text=Radon%20is%20a%20radioactive%20gas,and%20produces%20further%20radioactive%20particles.\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into buildings from the soil below<\/a>, and it&#8217;s the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Radon levels can vary significantly throughout Chicagoland, so testing your home is crucial.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends testing all homes for radon, especially if you\u2019re buying or selling. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/radon\/radon-test.html\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">You can purchase a radon test kit from a hardware store or home improvement center<\/a>, or hire a qualified radon measurement professional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Radon is measured in units of picocuries per liter (pCi\/L) of air. The EPA\u2019s action level is 4 pCi\/L, and there is no known safe level of this odorless gas, so <a href=\"https:\/\/www.safewise.com\/blog\/increase-home-safety-top-radon-detectors\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">property owners may want to invest in a radon detector<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Agents of Chaos<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Indoor air quality can also be negatively affected by biological agents aside from mold spores. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nachi.org\/pollutants.htm\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">These contaminants include dust and dust mites<\/a>, pet dander, pollen, viruses, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/healthy-home-guide\/sewer-gas\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">sewer gas<\/a>, and bacteria or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/blog\/healing-homes-personal-care-and-human-compassion-in-trauma-scene-cleanup\/\">pathogens left behind by flood waters, trauma, or hoarding<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Microscopic dust mites are eight-legged creatures that thrive in warm, humid environments. They feed on dead skin flakes shed by humans and pets, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/dust-mites\/symptoms-causes\/syc-20352173\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">their waste products are a major source of allergens<\/a>. Dust mites are particularly prevalent in bedding, carpets, and upholstered furniture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are certain steps that homeowners can take to reduce the presence of these pollutants indoors:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Wash human and pet bedding in hot water (at least 55\u00b0C or 130\u00b0F) weekly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.webmd.com\/allergies\/dust-mite-mattress-and-pillow-covers-for-allergy-relief\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Utilize dust-mite-proof covers on mattresses and pillows<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture regularly, using a HEPA filter if possible.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Consider replacing carpets with hard floors, especially in bedrooms.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.goodhousekeeping.com\/appliances\/air-purifier-reviews\/a25252001\/do-air-purifiers-work\/?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_campaign=arb_ga_ghk_d_bm_prog_org_us_a25252001&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjw6PGxBhCVARIsAIumnWbxlMKsUwjADm8DDBSJKKDbdsPiJao3HUl9hz_GxnXvkPjhcdkFb28aAjTZEALw_wcB\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Invest in air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensure all drains have P-traps, which act as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/article\/what-is-a-p-trap\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">a water barrier to prevent sewer gases from entering your home<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019ve experienced an event that could lead to biological agent contamination in your residence or business, the team at PuroClean of Evanston is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to help <a href=\"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/blog\/restoring-more-than-property-the-human-side-of-remediation\/\">clear the air and return your life and property to normal as soon as possible<\/a>.<br><br>Breathe easier with our expert and compassionate assistance \u2014 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/contact\/\">call us today!<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>When you think of air pollution, you likely envision smog-filled skylines or vehicle exhaust. However, the air inside our homes and businesses can harbor pollutants that are just as harmful,<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":728,"featured_media":19551,"template":"","blog-category":[17],"class_list":["post-19550","blog","type-blog","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","blog-category-air-quality"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog\/19550","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/blog"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/728"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog\/19550\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/19551"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=19550"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"blog-category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.puroclean.com\/chicago-il-puroclean-evanston\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog-category?post=19550"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}