In today's fast-paced world, we spend the majority of our time indoors, whether at home, work, or leisure. However, have you ever considered the quality of the air you breathe inside these spaces? Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a critical aspect of our overall health and well-being, and it's often overlooked. This article aims to shed light on this important topic and provides insights into five common indoor pollution sources and their solutions.

1. Utilize a Particle Sensor

Particulate matter encompasses solid or liquid particles small enough to remain suspended in the air, constituting the most prevalent form of air pollution. It is typically categorized into two sizes: larger PM10 and smaller PM2.5. PM10, known as coarse particulate matter, can emanate from diverse sources like mining operations, brake pads, construction activities, agriculture, or wind erosion. PM2.5, fine particulate matter, is predominantly emitted through the combustion of organic fuels in vehicles, power plants, and wildfires or results from chemical pollutants accumulating in the atmosphere. Both types are detrimental, but PM2.5 can infiltrate deeper into the respiratory system, potentially causing more harm.

Detecting Indoor Particle Pollution

The simplest method for ascertaining the presence of particle pollution indoors is by employing a particle sensor designed to detect PM2.5. These devices are readily available, costing approximately $100, and can be found at hardware stores or online retailers. Many of these sensors provide an air quality assessment, often represented using a color-coded scale similar to the EPA Air Quality Index. This scale ranges from good to bad, marked by colors like green, yellow, orange, red, and purple. Nevertheless, it's important to note that the EPA employs expensive equipment operated by skilled technicians, so one should not expect a sensor priced around a hundred dollars to provide an equally precise reading.

While consumer particle sensors may not be accurate enough for scientific research, they can offer a reasonable estimate of indoor air quality, signaling the presence of particle pollution. If a particle sensor indicates poor air quality, it is advisable to take action.

Identifying the Source and Reducing Pollutants

To pinpoint the source of indoor air pollution, compare the readings from your particle sensor with data from the local EPA air quality station to determine if outdoor air quality is better. If it is, then the source likely originates indoors. Keep in mind that due to variations in sensor accuracy and how they detect and report particles, only significant differences in color codes should be considered indicative. For instance, a stark contrast such as purple indoors and green outdoors strongly suggests an indoor source, while a less pronounced contrast like orange indoors and yellow outdoors is more ambiguous.

For mitigating outdoor sources of particle pollution, improving weather stripping and utilizing portable air purifiers for indoor filtration can be effective strategies. During extreme outdoor air quality events such as wildfires, it's advisable to maintain clean air in a designated room, ideally the bedroom where you sleep. If enhancing weather stripping is not immediately feasible, makeshift measures like using painter's tape to seal cracks around windows and doors can be employed in emergencies to prevent smoke infiltration.

Indoor sources of particle pollution can be identified by monitoring when the sensor readings spike. Common sources include cooking, vacuuming, and the use of candles. While humidifiers may increase particle detection, aerosolized water is harmless and does not fall under particle pollution. Addressing indoor particle pollution sources is best achieved through ventilation, such as opening windows or activating the exhaust fan while cooking. Additionally, portable air purifiers can be strategically placed to effectively remove particles originating near the source.

2. Employ a Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Detector

Utilizing VOC detectors can assist in identifying specific chemical pollutants in the air known as volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. These pollutants can emanate from various sources, including new building materials, paints, adhesives, and even freshly acquired clothing. VOCs encompass thousands of distinct compounds, some of which can be highly toxic, while others are harmless. To conclusively determine individual VOCs, sophisticated laboratory equipment such as gas chromatography and mass spectroscopy, calibrated with known VOC quantities, is necessary. Nevertheless, consumer-grade detectors can still furnish valuable insights into indoor air quality.

Detecting VOCs

The majority of VOC detectors are designed to detect either the specific chemical formaldehyde (HCHO) or the total volatile organic compounds (TVOC) present in the environment. Formaldehyde, a byproduct of modern industrial manufacturing, is a carcinogenic household pollutant. Detecting its presence is crucial for ascertaining contamination.

Interpreting TVOC readings can be more nuanced because it represents the cumulative amount of all VOCs in the air. TVOC detectors can signal the presence of substances such as paint fumes and cleaning chemicals that may contribute to respiratory issues. However, it's important to note that some VOCs in the air, particularly in small or infrequent quantities, are not harmful. Essential oils and alcoholic beverages release significant amounts of VOCs, characterized by their strong odors, but are generally not considered contaminants. Some TVOC detectors may register false readings when exposed to ethanol (the alcohol found in alcoholic drinks) nearby.

Elevated levels of VOCs within a household can lead to allergic reactions, asthma exacerbations, and, when combined with other pollutants, contribute to particulate matter formation. Safe TVOC levels typically fall below 1,000 micrograms per cubic meter (ug/m3), while readings exceeding 3,000 are of particular concern.

Reducing VOCs at Their Source

The sources of VOCs can vary widely due to the diversity of these compounds. However, in most cases, VOCs are commonly emitted from new products. If you observe elevated levels of VOCs, consider investigating any recent additions like furniture or building materials. Additionally, check for the presence of cleaning or industrial chemicals stored in proximity to your living space.

Effective management of VOCs involves adequate ventilation. Air purifiers can also be beneficial in reducing their concentration. Devices equipped with robust carbon or charcoal filters, measured in pounds, can effectively absorb VOCs for later disposal. Advanced technologies like PECO (Photo Electrochemical Oxidation) can even destroy VOCs. However, HVAC filtration systems equipped solely with dust filters are unlikely to have a meaningful impact on VOC reduction.

3. Identifying Mold

Mold is one of the few air contaminants with a discernible physical presence: the black mold colony. These colonies continuously release spores into the air, and inhaling these spores can lead to allergies, asthma exacerbations, and more severe health issues.

Mold Growth Conditions

Mold thrives in environments with access to liquid water and organic material for sustenance. It typically favors soft wood but can proliferate on virtually any biological matter.

Mold Detection

One approach to detect mold is to vacate the space for a while, then return and sniff for any moldy odor. If you detect the distinctive scent of mold or have reason to suspect its presence, the next step is to search for colonies, which appear as dark patches that may resemble dirt. Pay particular attention to areas where air tends to be still, allowing spores to settle, such as corners and beneath fixtures. Given that mold requires ample moisture, inspect locations where water may accumulate, like under sinks, in bathrooms with showers or tubs, under potted plants, and on the surface of plant soil. If the mold odor persists but you are unable to locate any visible colonies, consider enlisting a professional equipped with cameras to inspect concealed and hard-to-reach areas.

When you discover a potential mold colony, determine if it is genuinely mold by diluting bleach in a 1:16 ratio with water and applying it to the dark patch using a swab. Mold will bleach and become translucent, typically regrowing over a few days, whereas dirt will retain its dark appearance.

Eradicating Mold at Its Source

The initial step in eliminating mold from your indoor space is to eliminate its water source. Ensure that any leaking pipes are promptly repaired, and bathrooms are adequately ventilated. Consider acquiring a humidity detector; if it records levels exceeding 75%, a dehumidifier can effectively curtail mold growth.

Use a diluted bleach solution to eradicate mold in areas it has infested. If mold reappears, it may have infiltrated building materials and potentially weakened them. In such cases, it's imperative to engage the services of a professional mold remediator to replace the affected building components.

Mold present on the surface of indoor plant soil can be scraped off and disposed of outdoors. Ensure thorough removal, as any remaining spores can continue to spread. Subsequently, allow the soil surface to completely dry between each watering to prevent new spores from germinating.

4. Addressing Dust Issues

Dust is a common source of respiratory discomfort, primarily due to the substantial presence of dust mites, microscopic organisms that thrive on shed skin and atmospheric moisture. Exposure to dust mites can trigger allergies and asthma, contributing to a phenomenon known as the atopic march, in which asthma, allergies, and eczema often co-occur and exacerbate one another.

Beyond dust mites, dust can also house a multitude of other allergenic substances, such as pollen, mold spores, pet dander, and even absorbed VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Additionally, dust may contain bacteria, potentially leading to infections. Dust becomes a concern for indoor air quality when it is agitated by human activity, causing particles to become airborne and potentially inhaled within minutes of disturbance.

Detecting Dust

Regrettably, bacteria, dust mites, mold, pollen, and other allergens are pervasive in nearly all indoor environments to some extent. Like mold, the presence of dust is most readily detected visually. If you notice a gray, black, or brown accumulation of fine particles accumulating behind furniture and on windowsills, it may be contributing to diminished air quality.

Mitigating Dust at the Source

Reducing dust mites and mold can be achieved by maintaining indoor humidity levels below 50%. To minimize pollen and other outdoor allergenic particles, a helpful practice is to remove shoes and outer clothing upon entering your home.

A fundamental step in addressing dust-related air quality concerns is physically eliminating dust that accumulates on surfaces. Utilize warm, soapy water on non-porous surfaces and vacuum all other areas. Vacuuming carpet and upholstery is especially crucial, as dust particles that accumulate within fibers can easily become airborne due to foot traffic and other activities. If dust allergies persist, it might be advisable to consider the removal of carpeting and opt for predominantly leather or wood furnishings.

Don't forget that dust can also accumulate on bedding, potentially affecting your breathing while sleeping. Regularly wash your sheets and pillowcases, and consider the use of anti-dust mite bedding designed with fewer cracks and crevices for these organisms to inhabit if persistent allergies are a concern upon waking.

5. Employ a Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Detector

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a natural byproduct of human metabolism, exhaled with each breath. When CO2 accumulates in enclosed indoor spaces where people are conversing and breathing, it can displace oxygen, potentially leading to cellular-level problems. CO2 levels indoors can swiftly rise from the typical outdoor concentration of approximately 400 parts per million (ppm) to as much as 2,000 ppm. Such elevated levels may induce fatigue and even impair decision-making abilities.

Furthermore, elevated CO2 serves as an indicator of inadequate ventilation because it is typically problematic in poorly ventilated, occupied spaces. Along with CO2, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), virus particles, or other airborne contaminants may accumulate.

Detecting CO2

The propensity for CO2 to accumulate in a room is primarily contingent on its level of ventilation. In spaces lacking open windows or access to hallways, CO2 levels can increase within just an hour of occupancy. If you experience fatigue or diminished energy after spending time in a specific room, it may suggest poor ventilation.

Carbon dioxide detectors, priced similarly to VOC detectors, can inform you when CO2 levels become excessive. If levels consistently exceed 1,500 ppm, it may be time to implement remedial measures.

Mitigating CO2 at the Source

Unfortunately, the primary source of CO2 in our homes is our own exhalations, making its elimination impossible. Instead, the key is to expel CO2 outdoors while introducing fresh air. Enhancing the airflow to the outside or, where feasible, considering HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) upgrades to enhance ventilation can be effective strategies. Even simply cracking a window for a few minutes each hour can significantly reduce indoor CO2 levels.

While there are devices designed to "scrub" CO2 from the air, they are primarily intended for industrial purposes and may not address other accumulated contaminants. Although indoor plants are beneficial, they absorb CO2 relatively slowly and would require a substantial quantity, involving extensive watering and a potential for mold growth, to make a notable difference.

These five indoor air pollution sources can change gradually or suddenly. It's important to remember that maintaining good indoor air quality is a multifaceted endeavor that demands knowledge and commitment. We continuously strive to facilitate the process of managing air quality. Keep an eye on this blog for more ideas, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for additional insights into air quality and Lifubide's initiatives to address it.