When your home or even an office building has poor air quality it may not be due to dirty air filters. It could also be a more critical problem. Poor indoor air is the result of contaminants or pollutants that are in the air that you are breathing in every second you are inside the home. There are a number of different sources for air pollutants. American Hometown Services will share some of the common indoor air pollutants in the average home and where they are coming from as well as their remedies.

Bacteria, Mildew & Mold Exposure

Mold, mildew and bacteria can be found all over the home. There are many types of mold species and some are more harmful than others. Mold and mildew will release small spores into the air as a form of reproduction. Once the spores attach to a new surface, it will grow and spread. While these spores are in the air the likelihood of a person breathing them in is very high. For some these spores can cause indoor allergies for others it can trigger asthma or lead to severe respiratory infections. The bacteria in the air will have similar results. Bacteria can also lead to illnesses. The presence of bacteria in the home is usually detected by scent. Bacteria causes nasty odors in the home as well as affect the health of those breathing the bacteria in. Bacteria can be caused or stimulated by pet urine, vomit, sweat, and spills from food and drinks.

Common Air Pollutants & Contaminants

Other common contaminants found in the average home are dust particles, dead skin, dander and hair. For those with pets, know that your pets release hair and dander into the air constantly. Pets and kids also bring inside dirt and pollen from outside which will then be released into the home’s indoor air. Dead skin makes up most of the dust inside the home. In turn, dead skin will attract dust mites. Dust mites feed on dead skin and dander. They will grow, reproduce, leave behind feces, and die. Dust mites also play their part in contaminating the home’s indoor air.

Indoor Air Pollution Solutions

So where are the sources the mold, bacteria, and contaminates inside the home coming from? There are some hot spots or breeding grounds that require proper attention. Start with the air ducts. Over time, the air ducts will accumulate dust and need to be removed. If condensation builds up inside the air ducts, mold will also develop inside. The air ducts bring in all of the warm or cool air throughout the entire home. When the air ducts are dirty they will cause the entire home’s air to be contaminated. It is strongly recommended to clean the air duct system every 5 to 8 years to ensure your home air stays cleaner. If mold is detected, make sure to seek air duct cleaning right away.

How Carpets Affect Indoor Air Quality

Another major source of poor indoor quality is the carpets. Carpet inside the home is like a magnet for dirt, pollen, bacteria, and mold. Carpet requires weekly vacuuming to remove the particles that get trapped in the fibers. Along with frequent vacuuming, carpet needs deep cleaning. For best results, seek a professional carpet cleaning service that can better remove all of the bacteria, mold and other contaminates that are trapped in the carpet. By having the carpet clean, you can better ensure your indoor air quality.

Air Duct & Carpet Cleaning, Mold Remediation & More in Quincy, Macomb, Hamilton, Warsaw & East Alton Illinois | Hannibal, Missouri

For professional air duct cleaning, carpet cleaning, mold treatment, and more, contact America Hometown Services today.