Everyone has their own set of fears. Sometimes, we fear things we see with the naked eye. However, there are things that could be scarier for others, and these include what cannot be seen.
One example is the air quality inside our homes. What cannot be seen can justify the fear that a person has when it comes to the invisible dangers that a person can breathe or touch.
An air quality test can provide essential information about the air you breathe indoors. Is it necessary? ServiceMaster of the Upstate discusses why you may need one.
ServiceMaster of the Upstate works with certified third-party laboratories for air quality testing and mold detection. We perform mold remediation in Upstate South Carolina and Polk, Henderson, Transylvania, and Rutherford Counties, North Carolina. For more information about this service, call our office at (864) 310-7891 or contact us online.
Common concerns related to air quality involve odors, issues regarding comfort, and health complaints. Here are five reasons why a person should have an indoor air quality test:
#1: Particulate Matter
Particulate matter (PM) is a mixture of tiny particles and droplets in the air that can be inhaled and cause health problems. These particles come in various sizes, but those of concern due to their health effects are usually categorized into two main groups based on their diameter:
- PM10 – These particles are 10 micrometers and smaller in diameter. They include dust, pollen, and mold. PM10 can be inhaled into the nose, mouth, and throat and settle in the respiratory tract, leading to health issues such as coughing, throat irritation, and short-term respiratory symptoms.
- PM2.5 – These are finer particles, measuring 2.5 micrometers and smaller. They are produced from vehicle emissions, wood burning, and industrial processes. Due to their small size, PM2.5 particles can penetrate deeper into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, creating serious health risks such as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. They can exacerbate conditions like asthma and heart disease.
Children, elderly individuals, and individuals with health conditions are particularly vulnerable to the effects of particulate matter. Monitoring and controlling particulate matter levels are crucial to safeguarding health and improving indoor environmental quality.
#2: Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Carpets and shower curtains often release a chemical smell that lasts days or weeks. This smell is due to the release of VOCs in these materials.
A home has numerous products that emit VOCs. These include paint and furniture cleaners. Although not all of these can be smelled, these can result in short-term health problems such as nausea and headaches. In addition, repeated exposure can result in long-term health issues.
There are numerous VOCs that cannot be covered by indoor air quality testing. However, formaldehyde, a dangerous VOC, can be detected. Formaldehyde is a component in tobacco smoke, fabrics, wood, combustion appliances, and more.
Formaldehyde is classified as a carcinogen linked to cancers such as nasopharyngeal cancer and leukemia, particularly with prolonged exposure. Additionally, it may cause neurological effects like headaches and dizziness and can sensitize individuals, exacerbating allergies and asthma.
#3: Mold, Mildew, Bacteria, or Viruses
There are also biological contaminants present in addition to chemical contaminants. These include mold, mildew, fungi, bacteria, and viruses. These organisms thrive and multiply in warm, humid air. This means homeowners should be alert regarding regulating indoor humidity and fixing water leaks in basements and bathrooms.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mold exposure can result in different symptoms, including respiratory problems and eye and skin irritation. These conditions aggravate the health of people with already existing respiratory issues, such as asthma.
There are dangers when it comes to cleaning mold in a DIY fashion. This can be prevented by hiring a mold remediation company near Saluda, SC, and nearby areas, like ServiceMaster of the Upstate.
#4: Pesticides
Most solutions often result in another problem. This goes with pesticides as a household means to remove insects. However, pesticides can result in concerns about indoor air quality.
EPA reports that two-thirds of U.S. households have used at least one pesticide. This implies that a certain amount of pesticides will be detected in the air during indoor air quality testing. There may be high levels of pesticides if there is a history of improper use
#5: Carbon Monoxide (CO) and Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
CO is an odorless, colorless gas that can be lethal at high levels. It is produced by burning fuels like gasoline and natural gas and is highly toxic, interfering with oxygen transport in the blood, leading to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and, at high levels, death.
High levels of CO2 can indicate inadequate ventilation and can lead to reduced productivity and drowsiness.
Concerned About Indoor Air Quality?
Health and well-being could never be given too much importance. Air quality testing is a way to ensure that biological and chemical contaminants are not present at home.
If you had an air quality test done by a reputable laboratory and discovered mold in your home, call ServiceMaster of the Upstate at (864) 310-7891 or contact us online for mold remediation services. We service Upstate South Carolina and Polk, Henderson, Transylvania, and Rutherford Counties, North Carolina.
