What are the Symptoms for Poor Air Quality?

Regardless of whether you live in an apartment, a new build, a multiple-family dwelling or any other housing situation, the air quality in your home is important. Indoor air quality (IAQ) directly impacts the health of the individuals living in a home. High concentrations of indoor pollutants such as certain gases and particulates from various sources diminish your IAQ. It is important to be aware of these pollutants as well as their sources so you and your family can prevent IAQ problems. Follow this guide from your Buddy’s at Southern Air Heating, Cooling & Plumbing to better understand the impact of your home’s air quality and why it is important to test your IAQ.

Poor Indoor Air Quality

Symptoms of poor indoor air quality can manifest as physical ailments. This can include:

• Dryness and irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and skin
• Headache and fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Hypersensitivity and allergies
• Sinus congestion
• Coughing and sneezing
• Dizziness or nausea

When to Schedule an IAQ Test

Pay attention to the health of the individuals living in your home and be aware of any of the above symptoms. In addition, be mindful of other warning signs that it’s time to schedule indoor air quality testing:

• Severe allergy symptoms and respiratory illnesses
• Higher energy bills
• Fungal growth, mold and mildew
• Increased dust build-up
• Elevated humidity levels
• Elevated levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

Benefits of an IAQ Test

If you live in Baton Rouge and suffer from poor air quality symptoms, there is hope. Testing for indoor air quality is part of routine home maintenance and Southern Air offers these services. IAQ testing does more for your home than just ridding the space of excess dust. Here are some of the ways scheduling an IAQ test can improve your quality of life:

• Fewer odors in your space. Accumulated pet dander, secondhand smoke and fungal spores can contribute to a musty smell in your home. An IAQ test can help pinpoint the source of off-putting smells so you can eliminate them from your space.
• Reduced energy costs. When a home’s central cooling and heating system has to force air through dirty or clogged filters, it uses more energy. Also, older units may do a poor job filtering out smaller particulates from the air. Choosing to invest in an optimized HVAC system in addition to an IAQ test may be the best choice to avoid poor air quality symptoms.
• Proper humidity levels lead to comfort. Moist environments are a haven for mold, mildew and fungal spores, not to mention moist air feels heavy. Not enough humidity can also wreak havoc on your health, causing dry skin and coughs. Finding the right balance of humidity is an important factor when thinking about your indoor air quality.
• Less illness overall. Many individuals spend a majority of their time indoors, breathing recirculated air from heating and cooling systems. Testing your home’s IAQ can help you understand and pinpoint sources for recurring illnesses. Once those sources are removed from your home, you may experience less frequent symptoms. 

Opting Out of an IAQ Test

Long-term exposure to indoor toxins can have serious, sometimes life-threatening effects on your health. 

Radon

Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that occurs naturally in the soil and can enter your home through cracks in your foundation. Exposure may make individuals more prone to frequent infections like pneumonia and bronchitis.

Mold

Exposure to mold can manifest as flu-like symptoms or allergic reactions. In severe cases, individuals report light sensitivity, memory loss and anxiety.

VOCs

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are found in pesticides, paints, disinfectants, aerosol sprays and other sources. VOCs cause organ damage and harm the nervous system.

Indoor Allergens

Pollen, dust mites, pests and pet dander are all common sources of indoor allergens. These allergens can cause respiratory illness and bring on attacks for those with asthma.

Schedule Your IAQ Test

The air in your home directly impacts you and your family’s health. Breathe easier knowing that your home’s environment is safe and devoid of pollutants. If you’re suffering from poor indoor air quality, it may be time to contact a professional. Reach out to Southern Air Heating, Cooling & Plumbing to schedule your IAQ test today.