5 IAQ Facts you might not know!

5 Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Facts You Might Not Know!

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is a critical component of a healthy home, yet many common household activities and items can significantly compromise the air you breathe without you even realizing it. According to the EPA, pollutant levels can be two to five times higher indoors than outdoors. Recognizing these hidden threats is the first step toward a safer, healthier living environment.

Fact 1: Secondhand Smoke is One of the Top Indoor Air Pollutants

The dangers of secondhand smoke are well-documented, but its impact as a pervasive indoor air pollutant is often underestimated. When tobacco is burned, it releases a toxic cocktail into the air that can linger for hours, clinging to surfaces and dust particles (thirdhand smoke).

The noxious smoke contains over 7,000 different types of poisons and compounds, many of which are known carcinogens. Key hazardous components include:

• Formaldehyde: A colorless, strong-smelling gas used in building materials and household products; it's a known human carcinogen.
• Carbon Dioxide ($CO_2$): While naturally occurring, elevated indoor levels from smoke can be a sign of poor ventilation and lead to drowsiness.
• Carbon Monoxide ($CO$): An odorless, colorless gas that is poisonous.
• Particulate Matter (PM): Tiny solid or liquid droplets that are inhaled deep into the lungs and bloodstream, causing cardiovascular and respiratory problems.

Actionable Tip: If you live in a multi-unit building, ensure proper sealing and air filtration to prevent smoke infiltration from adjacent units.

Fact 2: Toxic Chemicals in Air Fresheners Lead To Indoor Air Pollution

That burst of "fresh linen" or "mountain pine" scent often comes at a high cost to your IAQ. Many chemical air fresheners—including sprays, plug-ins, and gels—are a significant source of indoor air pollution, often designed to mask odors rather than eliminate them.

These products typically release a cocktail of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) when used. Common VOCs and associated health effects include:

• Phthalates: Used to dissolve and carry fragrances; linked to hormonal disruption.
• 1,4-Dichlorobenzene (1,4-DCB): Commonly found in mothballs and some air freshener solids; linked to lung damage.
• Formaldehyde: Released by many scented products.

The health effects of exposure to these VOCs can include:

• Respiratory Irritation: Triggering asthma and allergies.
• Headaches and Nausea: Especially in enclosed spaces.
• Long-Term Health Risks: Including potential neurotoxicity and liver damage from chronic exposure.

Safer Alternatives: Instead of chemical sprays, opt for natural ventilation (opening windows), baking soda to absorb odors, or diffusers using pure essential oils.

Fact 3: Your Kitchen Could Be Causing Air Problems

The simple act of preparing meals is a major, often overlooked, contributor to indoor air pollution. Cooking, especially frying, searing, or broiling at high temperatures, creates airborne pollutants that are detrimental to lung health.

Key pollutants generated in the kitchen include:

• Particulate Matter (PM2.5): These microscopic particles are produced when oil, fat, and other foods are heated past their smoke point. They are small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs.
• Nitrogen Dioxide ($NO_2$): Generated by gas stoves; it is a respiratory irritant that can exacerbate asthma and cause lung inflammation.
• Carbon Monoxide ($CO$): Can be produced by malfunctioning gas appliances.

Best Practices for Kitchen IAQ:

• Ventilation is Key: Always use your range hood fan and ensure it vents outside, not just recirculates air.
• Use Back Burners: Use back burners when possible, as the range hood is most effective there.
• Avoid High Heat: Minimize high-temperature cooking methods like deep frying.
• Air Purifier: Consider placing a portable HEPA air purifier in the kitchen/dining area.

Fact 4: Mold Is a Common Indoor Air Pollutant

Mold spores are ubiquitous—they are naturally occurring and always floating in the air we breathe. The problem arises when they find a source of moisture and organic material (like drywall, wood, or carpet) and begin to grow indoors, leading to extensive mold contamination.

Once mold colonization begins, it releases high concentrations of spores, and sometimes mycotoxins, into the indoor air. This can significantly affect human health.

Health concerns associated with high mold exposure:

• Allergic Reactions: Sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash.
• Asthma Exacerbation: Mold is a common trigger for asthma attacks.
• Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis: A rare but serious lung condition.

The Solution is Moisture Control: Mold cannot grow without water. To prevent contamination, focus on:

• Promptly repairing any leaks or water intrusion.
• Maintaining indoor humidity levels below 60% (ideally between 30% and 50%).
• Venting moisture-producing appliances (like clothes dryers) and areas (like bathrooms) to the outside.

Fact 5: Candles Are Not Always Better Than Air Fresheners

Many consumers choose scented candles as a "natural" alternative to chemical sprays, but they introduce their own set of pollutants into the indoor environment. The type of wax used is a primary concern.

Candles made from paraffin wax (a petroleum byproduct) are often the worst offenders. When burned, they can release:

• Carcinogenic Soot: Black carbon particles that are released directly into the air and deposited on walls and furniture.
• Toluene and Benzene: Toxic compounds that are irritants.

How to Choose a Healthier Candle:

• Select Natural Waxes: Look for candles made from soy, beeswax, or coconut wax, which generally burn cleaner and produce less soot.
• Trim the Wick: Keep the wick trimmed to about $1/4$ inch before each lighting to minimize smoking and soot production.
• Avoid Synthetic Scents: Opt for unscented candles or those scented with pure essential oils instead of synthetic fragrances.