Did you know that air pollution can come from other sources besides dust? While dust and other particles are one of the largest sources of pollution in the home, they are not the only source. Many pollutants in the home may be unknown to you. Chemicals, gasses, and other factors in your home can also pollute your air, making it unsafe to breathe. It is especially important to watch indoor air quality in the winter when your home is closed to outside air.

Pollutants can come from the following five sources:

• Fuel emissions, such as from vehicles and gas-powered appliances
• By-products from cleaning supplies, lawn care items, bug spray, and other chemical products
• Emissions from cleaning products, appliances, detergents, perfume, electronics, and plastics
• Smoke from cigarettes, cooking, or burning candles
• Building supplies such as caulk, insulation, composite wood, plumbing, and other materials

You can improve your indoor air quality using a multi-step approach. The first step is to test for pollutants in your home. In general, if a substance is not natural, then it can pollute your air. You can test specific products by placing a small amount in a glass jar for a few days. If you can smell the item after a few days, then it is polluting the air.

The second step is to remove as many of the sources of pollution as possible. Try smoking outside or using wickless candles. When possible, use natural building supplies. Place gas-powered appliances out of main living areas. Dispose of chemicals and paint after use. Try using natural cleaning products and paints.

The third step is to use emissions detectors and filters in your home. Detectors for carbon monoxide, radon, and other emissions in the home can help you determine if your home is safe and contaminant-free. Use a filter specially designed to capture unwanted chemicals and contaminates out of your home. Normal particle filters are unable to catch gas-based pollutants.

For more information on ways to improve the indoor air quality in your West Chester-area home, contact Tri-County Heating & Cooling. We provide expert HVAC care and service year-round.

Pollution image via Shutterstock.