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Air Quality & Your Health

Posted on May 22nd, 2020 by Bill Stuhr

Unfortunately, polluted air can cause negative health impacts for even the healthiest of people. Risks such as respiratory irritation or difficulty breathing can occur, depending on the type of pollutant, your current health status, and the length of your exposure to the polluted air. One of the best ways to ensure the safety of your home is to invest in the indoor air quality in your home with your air conditioning company in Palatine.

Here are some of the symptoms of air pollution in your home, and some of the ways you can combat it.

Symptoms of Indoor Air Pollution

Indoor air pollution can come with a wide variety of symptoms. They can often be mistaken for allergies, colds, stress, or even the flu. The best way to determine whether your air is unsafe is to compare your symptoms when you’re in your house versus when you leave. Especially in these times, when we are spending lots of time in our homes, it’s important to realize how the air in our homes makes us feel. Some of the most common symptoms are:

  • Coughing
  • Sneezing
  • Watery eyes
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Headaches

Causes of Indoor Air Pollution

  • Carpet fumes. Oftentimes, when a new carpet is installed in your home, it can release chemicals from the vinyl backing and the glue holding it to your floor. The EPA recommends ventilation for at least three days after installation.
  • Paint and VOCs. VOC stands for volatile organic compounds, which are often found in household pants and can cause health problems in high enough concentrations.
  • Toxins in nonstick pots and pans. The chemical responsible for many cancers in the past, PFOA, has been largely eliminated; however, another second toxic chemical can be released when you heat your nonstick cookware.
  • Household cleaners and disinfectants. Many people choose to use multiple cleaners, sanitizers, and disinfectants to wipe down surfaces. These can form VOCs that are linked to various health problems. For more information on your options for air cleaning products in your home, contact your air conditioning company in Palatine.

Contact Our Experts

For more information regarding the air quality in your home and what you can do to improve it, contact your air conditioning company in Palatine today!

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