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Common Indoor Air Quality Issues in Colorado Homes
You know that feeling when you walk into a room and the air feels stale or stuffy? It seems like no matter how often you clean or air out the space, you just can’t get rid of that lingering stuffiness. Well, you’re not alone. Indoor air quality issues are incredibly common, especially in Colorado with our dry climate. The good news is that with the right diagnosis, there are innovative air quality solutions in Colorado available to tackle pesky air problems. In this article, we’ll walk through the common culprits behind poor indoor air and simple, effective fixes you can implement right away. Get ready to breathe easy again! Diagnosing and resolving indoor air issues may sound complicated, but you’ll be surprised how attainable better air quality can be.
Diagnosing Air Quality Problems: Testing Methods and Solutions
Dry air and low humidity.
The arid Colorado climate means the air in your home can get very dry, especially in winter. Low humidity leads to irritation of the nasal passages and respiratory system. Consider using a humidifier to add moisture to the air and relieve discomfort.
Dust and allergens.
Houses in Colorado often suffer from high levels of dust, pet dander, and other allergens that can trigger allergy and asthma symptoms. Frequent vacuuming, dusting, and airing out your home are musts. An air purifier with a HEPA filter can also help remove airborne particles.
Radon gas.
Radon is an invisible, odorless gas that seeps into homes from the soil and bedrock. Long-term exposure to high levels of radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. Homes in Colorado are especially at risk due to the state’s geology. Test your home for radon and install a mitigation system if levels are 4 picocuries per liter of air (pCi/L) or higher.
Formaldehyde.
Formaldehyde is found in the glues and resins used in building materials and furniture. In high concentrations, it can cause respiratory issues and is a known carcinogen. Ensure proper ventilation and avoid purchasing products made with formaldehyde when possible. An air purifier can also help remove formaldehyde from the air in your home.
With some preventative measures and maintenance, you can diagnose and solve common indoor air quality issues, allowing you to breathe easily in the comfort of your own home.
Top Air Quality Improvement Solutions for Colorado Homes
To get to the root of your indoor air quality issues, testing is key. The most common methods are air sampling and surface testing. Air sampling involves collecting air samples to analyze for pollutants like mold, allergens, and toxic chemicals. Surface testing checks for contaminants on surfaces like walls or vents.
Air Sampling
Using an air sampling device, an IAQ professional will collect air samples in areas where occupants spend the most time. The samples are then analyzed in a lab to determine if pollutant levels are within recommended safety limits. If high levels are detected, the next step is finding and eliminating the source. Air sampling should be done by a trained pro to ensure accurate results and next steps.
Surface Testing
Swab or tape samples are collected from surfaces and analyzed for mold, allergens, and other pollutants. Surface testing is useful for locating contamination sources, especially in cases of water damage or excess moisture which can lead to mold growth. High contaminant levels on surfaces often correlate with poor indoor air quality and health issues. Remediation of contaminated surfaces may be required to improve your home’s air.
By utilizing professional testing methods, you’ll get the answers you need to create solutions and finally breathe easy in your own home. After the sources have been eliminated and your IAQ restored, follow-up testing will confirm your home’s healthy, contaminant-free indoor environment.
