Dangerous Indoor Air Pollutants

Last updated 3 months ago

Many people are concerned with outdoor pollution, but they don’t realize that the pollutants inside their home are potentially more dangerous than the ones outside. Frequent colds, chronic cough, and headaches may be the result of a bad furnace or improper ventilation. Here are some of the most common indoor pollutants and their dangers:

Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is released into the air when substances burn. Therefore, this pollutant can come from tobacco smoke, stoves, fireplaces, and furnaces. Carbon monoxide exposure can result in headaches, drowsiness, and impaired heart function. To avoid these risks, don’t allow smoking in your home and have a professional annual furnace inspection. Duct cleaning can also prevent this dangerous poison from infecting your home.
Nitrogen Dioxide
Nitrogen dioxide is commonly found in homes with gas heating systems or heaters that far surpass the temperature outside the home. To avoid nitrogen dioxide exposure, make sure your gas ranges are fitted with a hood that is vented outside. Also, make sure the vent is turned on whenever the stove is being used. Simple things like this can prevent lung disease, heart disease, and cancer.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde can seep into the air in your home from particleboard, foam insulation, and even furniture or carpets made from synthetic fibers. A high concentration of formaldehyde generally results in eye irritation, upper respiratory infections, chronic headaches, chest pains, and heart problems. To avoid being exposed, do not use particleboard or make sure it is protected with a sealant.

Make sure the air quality in your home is safe by scheduling an inspection with Service 1 Heating & A/C. We serve Naperville diligently to ensure our customers are homes are safe, and their heaters are working properly during the cold Illinois winters. Give us a call at (815) 254-1449 to schedule an furnace inspection in Naperville.