Effects of Poor Indoor Air Quality
When fine particles suspended in the air land on walls, ceilings, and furniture, they can cause discoloration and stains.
Though indoor air might seem free of pollutants, research shows it’s two to three times more concentrated in pollutants than outdoor air. Since homes are confined spaces, and ventilation might be insufficient, pollution can come from odors and particles from household combustion, chemicals, and mold due to high humidity.
Here are some of the effects of poor indoor air quality:
Respiratory problems
The respiratory system is volatile and will react each time a person inhales a pathogen, such as dust or pollen grains. As the immune system tries to fight the unwelcome agents, inflammation in the air tract occurs, causing wheezing and discomfort. Continuously staying in an environment with pollutants can result in asthma.
Respiratory bacteria can be suspended in the polluted air and will begin to multiply when inhaled, causing infection. The effects include constant coughing, sneezing, and a runny nose.
Allergic reactions
Besides asthma, poor indoor air quality can cause skin allergies in sensitive homeowners. For instance, mold spores dispersed from highly humid areas within the house can cause skin irritation. Also, microscopic dust mite droppings from polluted air can fall on bedding, clothes, or skin and cause an allergic reaction. An allergic skin reaction means itchiness, redness, and swelling. Living in such a house becomes uncomfortable.
Reduced lifespan
Indoor air pollutants that find their way into the bloodstream can cause chronic heart disease. Others, like formaldehyde or radon, when inhaled over a long period, can cause lung cancer. Also, when the particulate pollutants get into the brain, they can cause damage. The result of a damaged brain is cognitive decline. As the immune system tries to fight these pollutants, it weakens, making the body susceptible to other illnesses. All these factors increase the likelihood of premature death. Research by the World Health Organization shows that approximately 3.8 million people die annually due to illnesses associated with poor indoor air quality.
Diminished beauty and comfort of a house
When fine particles suspended in the air land on walls, ceilings, and furniture, they can cause discoloration and stains. They can also rest on windows and block natural light into the house. In addition, they accelerate paint deterioration. Some pollutants have unpleasant odors that make the house stuffy and uncomfortable.
Damage to electronics
Moisture pollutants can condense on electronics and destroy internal components or cause short circuits. Also, dust particles can accumulate in the internal parts of an electronic device and cause it to malfunction.
Purify indoor air
A house with poor air quality is unhealthy and uncomfortable to live in. When a homeowner suspects indoor air pollution, they should contact a professional and arrange an inspection.
CMB Air is a residential heating and cooling installation, service, and repair company with 15+ years of experience serving Tampa and surrounding areas. If you need a new air conditioner, repair, maintenance or some other service, we can help! Call (813) 447-1443 today!
