The Title Wizard

La Jolla, CA

Indoor air quality is one of the top 5 urgent risks to public healthThe Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that more than 50% of Americans are unaware that the air in their homes may be hazardous to their health.

What causes poor indoor air quality?

There are many causes. Biological pollutants, such as mold, pet dander, and dust mites contribute to poor indoor air quality. So do poorly-vented, fuel-burning appliances like stoves, fireplaces and heaters.

Sometimes environmental hazards, such as radon, are the culprit. Home products containing toxic substances are also significant contributors to indoor air quality issues.

Cabinetry, furniture, and flooring made with pressed wood fall into this category. So do carpeting, lead-based paint, and products containing asbestos.

What are the health hazards?

Poor indoor air quality affects health in a variety of ways. Children, the elderly, and those with allergies, asthma, and other respiratory illnesses may be affected more than others.

And, the health risk may increase depending on the cause of the air quality decline. For example, dust mites and pet dander may cause nasal congestion and other allergy symptoms, while exposure to radon may cause more serious illness, like lung cancer.

To learn more about health hazards, see the American Lung Association's Indoor Air Pollution Fact Sheet.

How can I improve the air quality in my home?

You can take an active role in improving the air quality in your home by trying these suggestions:

• Select low-emission carpeting
  Carpeting, carpet padding, and floor adhesives emit chemicals, including formaldehyde. If you will be installing new carpet, you can reduce your exposure to these chemicals by choosing carpet and carpet products that emit fewer chemicals.

      When you're ready to install, the EPA suggests ventilating the carpeted area for at least 48 hours by opening doors and using window fans. If possible, arrange installation before you occupy the home.

      Old carpet can also be a source of indoor air pollution, especially if it has not been regularly vacuumed and cleaned. Hire a professional to clean existing carpets and replace any carpet that appears to have gotten wet, or that has a damp, musty smell.

• Select low-emission pressed wood products
  When possible, select solid wood or low-emission pressed wood products for your home. Pressed wood is commonly used in cabinetry, laminate wood flooring products, plywood, and some furniture. Often, the adhesive that binds the wood particles together contains formaldehyde. If you plan to remodel and use pressed wood products, talk to your dealer about low-emission options.
• Maintain your heating and air-conditioning systems
  If your new home has air conditioning, replace the filters and continue to replace them every 2 to 3 months that the air conditioner is in use. Do the same if you have forced-air heating. Regularly replacing filters will keep your air-conditioner and furnace running efficiently and will help keep the air in your home healthy.
• Test chipped or peeling paint
  If your home was built before 1978, the surfaces in the home may be painted with lead-based paint . Consider having your home tested and hire a qualified contractor to eliminate any paint hazards.
• Test for radon
  Radon is a radioactive gas caused by the natural breakdown of uranium in rocks, soil and water. You can't see, smell or taste radon. But a simple test kit can determine whether it's present in your home or water supply. If your home tests positive, you'll need a qualified contractor to seal foundation cracks or perform other mitigation measures.
• Ensure adequate ventilation
  Keeping your home well-ventilated reduces indoor air pollution and high moisture levels that can cause mold and rot. Cooking, bathroom, attic, and crawl spaces should be ventilated. Check your home inspection report for information about your home's ventilation. If it is deficient, make the recommended additions or changes as soon as possible.
• Test fuel-burning appliances for carbon monoxide
  Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas. To determine if carbon monoxide is present in your home, contact your utility company or a licensed heating contractor.

      Ask that your fuel-burning appliances be tested for carbon monoxide. Plan to request the test annually. Gas furnaces should always be inspected before seasonal use begins. As an extra precaution, consider installing a carbon monoxide alarm.

• Vent heating appliances to reduce nitrogen dioxide risk
  Nitrogen dioxide is a colorless, odorless gas. It can build up in a home if gas-burning appliances are not properly vented. If you have a gas stove, make sure it's vented to the outside.

      And, run the ventilation fan when cooking. If you use space heaters, those should be vented too. If you have a wood-burning stove, make sure the doors have a tight seal when closed.

• Asbestos
  Asbestos is a mineral fiber that was regularly used in building products to make them stronger and heat-resistant. Though its use has declined, asbestos products such as cement siding, acoustical ceilings, and vinyl flooring may be present in your home.

      Asbestos products don't present a significant health risk unless    they are cracked or crumbling. But, if you suspect damaged asbestos in your home, or you plan to remodel an area containing asbestos, hire a certified asbestos contractor for assistance.

• Don't smoke in your home
  Secondhand tobacco is a major source of indoor air pollution. According to the American Lung Association, secondhand smoke contains thousands of chemicals, including the poisons formaldehyde and carbon monoxide. It also contains 43 carcinogens.