Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)
What Causes Indoor Air Problems?
The EPA says: “Indoor pollution sources that release gasses or into the air are the primary cause of indoor air quality problems in homes. Inadequate ventilation can increase indoor pollutant levels by not bringing in enough outdoor air to dilute emissions from indoor sources and by not carrying indoor air pollutants out of the home. High temperature and humidity levels can also increase concentrations of some pollutants.”
Why are these problems worse than ever before? Over the years, new products and construction methods that conserve energy were introduced. These products have since become standard in new construction and renovations. Today’s homes are better insulated, tightly sealed, and use less energy. Most people would agree that keeping heating and cooling bills down is a good idea. That’s why owners of existing homes add weather stripping and insulation to make their homes more energy efficient. Unfortunately, making their homes more energy efficient exacts an unexpected price. Fresh outdoor air stays out, and indoor air pollutants remain trapped inside. Most homeowners are not aware of their IAQ problems, and our industry has not done a very good job of educating. Many contractors are consumed with bidding on heating and cooling instead of presenting total comfort with IAQ solutions.
