It’s normal to feel safe in your Charlotte, NC, home. But have you ever thought of the dangers of indoor air pollutants? Taking care of the common habits compromising your IAQ is essential. Here are four bad habits that add pollution to your indoor air:
Burning Candles
Many candles contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that integrate with your indoor air when they burn. Candles of petroleum derivatives like paraffin emit toxins like those produced by burning diesel. Scented candles pose risks to your respiratory health as well, but to cut down on the adverse effects of burning candles, you can:
- Trim the wick.
- Burn them in well-ventilated areas.
- Use beeswax and soy-based candles instead.
- Burn candles for a maximum of one hour or less.
Using Some Cleaning Products
While a tidy home is satisfying, some cleaning products release toxic fumes into your indoor air. Inhaling these harmful fumes poses a significant danger. They can also contribute to various health issues, including asthma and cancer.
Additionally, some cleaning products contain VOC gases that evaporate at room temperature. These can cause different long-term and short-term health effects when released into the air. To reduce these effects, use natural products like water with baking soda or vinegar.
Deodorizing With Air Fresheners
Commercially available air fresheners are an enemy to your indoor air quality. Although they make your home smell good, air fresheners mask foul odors with VOCs but don’t eliminate them. In addition to pure, diffused essential oils, they also contain chemicals that pose a health hazard when inhaled.
Use air purification systems to eliminate foul odors in your home. The advanced technologies filter even the tiniest particles from your space and neutralize them, too. Proper maintenance of your air conditioning system will also make a big difference.
Smoking
Smoking cigarettes significantly reduces your indoor air quality. A buildup of smoke particles and residue gas presents a health risk. The threat is even worse in your home in rooms with carpets and fabrics.
Passive smoking poses an equivalent level of harm to active smoking. This is because it can lead to severe respiratory system conditions, including lung cancer. To promote a healthier living environment, refrain from smoking indoors.
The quality of the air inside your home significantly impacts your overall well-being. For professional indoor air quality (IAQ) services, contact Bradham Brothers, Inc. without delay. We’ll help you minimize indoor air pollution so you can sleep better and breathe easier.
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