The Importance Of Air Quality In Buildings: Health & More

Indoor air quality in buildings is strongly connected to the health and well-being of those working and living inside the building. We spend a lot of time indoors, whether we’re working, relaxing, or sleeping, so the quality of the air we breathe there is important. Good quality indoor air has health benefits, as well as increases the quality of life, and saves money. 

Benefits of Good Indoor Air Quality

During the winter months, many people end up spending more time indoors. As such, during this time, it becomes even more important to have good air quality in your home or office building. There are several benefits to having better quality indoor air. 

• Easier Breathing 

One of the simplest reasons that it is important to have good indoor air quality is that better quality air is easier to breathe. The more contaminated the air is, the more quickly those breathing it may succumb to illness or allergies, because the air is more heavily laden with pollutants. 

• Sleep Better 

Cleaner air means those breathing it can rest easier and are less likely to get sick. This reduction of stress on our systems makes it easier to sleep deeper and better. 

• Eliminate Odors 

Mold, mildew, bacteria, and pollutants can all cause unwelcome odors in places with poor air quality or poor ventilation. A quality air filtration system can help remove these pollutants, which in turn, helps eliminate odors. 

• Decrease Utility and Maintenance Bills 

Poor indoor air quality can put additional stress on HVAC systems and other air filtration systems. These machines must work harder to clean the air as it cycles through, increasing utility bills and causing undue stress on the system. This could lead to additional maintenance costs in the long run. 

• Improve Quality of Life

From a more comfortable environment to improved quality of health, better indoor air quality helps improve the quality of life for those breathing it. 

• Better Health 

We know for a fact that air quality has a direct impact on our health. Clean air quality is an important factor for those with asthma, lung conditions and heart conditions, as well as young children and the elderly. Read more below about the health issues associated with poor air quality. 

Health Issues Associated with Poor Air Quality 

We know that good quality indoor air is associated with better quality of health. But what are some of the impacts and issues associated with poor indoor air quality? Poor indoor air quality is associated with some major health problems, including: 

• Respiratory illness
• Sore or scratchy throat
• Nasal illness
• Complications for lung and heart conditions
• Coughing 
• Headaches
• Allergic reactions 
• Complications with asthma 
• Fatigue
• Skin and eye irritation 
• Carbon monoxide poisoning

Common Pollutants in Residential and Commercial Buildings

We know that poor indoor air quality can impact the health of those living in the building, as well as increase maintenance costs and improve the quality of life. Some of the most common pollutants for homes or commercial buildings could include second-hand smoke, mold, mildew, or asbestos. However, not all pollutants are caused by negative actions. In commercial kitchens, cooking can produce environmental pollutants such as high temperatures, grease, and smoke. While these byproducts of cooking are not necessarily bad, in excess, they can create an unhealthy environment

Ways to Improve the Air Quality in Your Building 

Whether you are worried your building may have poor indoor air quality or want to take good care of your health, there are some things you can do to help improve the indoor air quality in a building. 

• Clean regularly, including dusting and vacuuming
• Keep windows closed during peak pollen season or times when outdoor pollution levels are high 
• Measure your home’s humidity level and aim to keep it below 50 percent. For those in humid places, like Hawaii, you may need to use a dehumidifier 
• Change filters on appliances such as your furnace or HVAC system
• Have duct work cleaned and inspected by a professional regularly 

Cleaning Your Duct Work 

If you don’t know the last time your ductwork was cleaned, it is probably time for your annual maintenance. Contact the team at Airpro Indoor Air today to schedule your ductwork maintenance and cleaning.