Cold Weather Indoor Air Pollutants
We talk a lot about things we can do to improve the quality of our indoor breathing air. In my blog I’ve given lots of tips on things to do. Something we don’t talk about too much are the things that can actually impair the quality of the air we breathe indoors. One of the things that comes to my mind right now are the combustion pollutants. They are partibularly prevalent during cold weather because of the inordinate amount of use things such as space heaters, woodstoves and fireplaces get right now. We have to admit that this winter has been crazy and I have even fallen into the overuse of my space heaters and fireplace. So, why is that important? Well, here is some important information from the EPA about combustion pollutants:
Combustion Pollutants are gases or particles that come from burning materials. In homes, the major source of combustion pollutants are improperly vented or unvented fuel-burning appliances such as space heaters, woodstoves, gas stoves, water heaters, dryers, and fireplaces. The types and amounts of pollutants produced depends on the type of appliance, how well the appliance is installed, maintained, and vented, and the kind of fuel it uses. Common combustion pollutants include:
- Carbon monoxide (CO) which is a colorless, odorless gas that interferes with the delivery of oxygen throughout the body. Carbon monoxide causes headaches, dizziness, weakness, nausea, and even death.
- Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) which is a colorless, odorless gas that causes eye, nose and throat irritation, shortness of breath, and an increased risk of respiratory infection.
Source: http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/careforyourair.html
There is definitely some good information in there. Some things I either didn’t know or didn’t remember I knew. So, if we know what the sources and dangers are, what do we do about it. Again, I have found some good tips for that from the EPA:
Controlling the sources of pollution: Usually the most effective way to improve indoor air is to eliminate individual sources or reduce their emissions.
Ventilating: Increasing the amount of fresh air brought indoors helps reduce pollutants inside. When weather permits, open windows and doors, or run an air conditioner with the vent control open. Bathroom and kitchen fans that exhaust to the outdoors also increase ventilation and help remove pollutants.
Always ventilate and follow manufacturers’ instructions when you use products or appliances that may release pollutants into the indoor air.
Changing filters regularly: Central heaters and air conditioners have filters to trap dust and other pollutants in the air. Make sure to change or clean the filters regularly, following the instructions on the package.
As well as:
- Ventilate rooms where fuel-burning appliances are used.
- Use appliances that vent to the outside whenever possible.
- Ensure that all fuel-burning appliances are properly installed, used, adjusted, and maintained.
Source: http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/careforyourair.html
Following these tips and instructions could help you avoid breathing compromised air that could possibly affect your health. As always, if Mr. B’s can help you breathe better indoor air give us a call or visit our website!
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