Poor air quality affects 91% of the world population according to the World Health Organization (WHO). While it is true most of the air pollution comes from industrial activities and fossil fuel combustion, we also have to take into account indoor air quality and air pollutants that are present in residential and commercial buildings. Indoor and outdoor air quality can be very different, and they are affected by different sources of pollution.
The problem with air quality is that air pollutants are rarely visible to the naked eye, and we often don’t notice them. Symptoms of exposure usually take some time to manifest, which is another reason why this problem often isn’t recognized on time. The best way to know whether your home has an air quality problem or not is professional air quality testing.
Signs of Poor Indoor Air Quality
There are a few ways you can determine whether there are any potential threats to air quality in your home:
- Excessive moisture – Accumulation of moisture often results in mold growth. High levels of mold in your home can lead to serious health issues with long-term exposure, so it is advised to regularly inspect areas that are prone to molds, like bathrooms, kitchens, cellars, and attics.
- Check your vents – Vents are prone to dust accumulation, and if the air humidity is high, even mold growth. It is very important to maintain good hygiene and change air filters regularly, otherwise all the accumulated pollutants will be released back into the air.
- Experiencing symptoms of exposure – If you have a chronic sinus irritation, runny nose, headaches, sore throat, nausea and fatigue, it is very likely that these symptoms are caused by poor air quality. Solving this can involve properly ventilating your home and regularly cleaning heaters, vents and the AC. If you are experiencing the symptoms in spite of your best efforts, indoor air quality testing can help you pinpoint the true cause of poor air quality in your home.
- The age of your home – Older buildings are more prone to air quality issues due to their age and materials they’re made of. Most buildings built before 1990 in Toronto and the GTA contain asbestos, lead paints, and other harmful materials. Older buildings are also more likely to have problems with moisture, due to their exposure to the elements and wearing of the pipes. If your home is located in an older building, air quality testing is highly advised.
Quality Air Testing with Inch by Inch
Considering how important clean air is to our health, it is best to act fast if there are any signs of its poor quality. Home air quality testing can accurately determine the sources of pollution in your home, and an experienced inspector can tell you the optimal way to deal with them. Professionals at Inch by Inch Inspections are happy to help you make your home environment healthy. If you are looking for a certified, friendly inspector and the best quality for your buck, reach out to Inch by Inch today and schedule your air quality testing.