Absolutely. Air pollution concentration can be nearly 100 times greater indoors than outdoors. The American Lung Association found that many people spend 90% of their time indoors, making it important for homeowners to be aware of indoor air quality (IAQ) in Edmonton.
Many standard household things lead to poor indoor air quality, including:
- Chemicals in parts of carpet, furniture, upholstery and drapes
- Cleaning chemicals
- Paint
- Personal care cosmetics
The secure construction of new homes also contributes significantly to poor IAQ. Upgrades like weather stripping and storm doors are used to lower utility costs. However, they also block adequate ventilation by keeping interior air in and outside air out. The consequence can be an increase of fumes within your home.
Inferior IAQ can be a direct or indirect trigger of some health issues. Medical experts have found that up to half of all illnesses are caused or worsened by indoor air pollution.
Pollutants in your home can lead to flu-like symptoms such as headaches, nausea and respiratory inflammation. It can also aggravate allergies and asthma.
Adequate ventilation also plays an important role in improving indoor air quality, since it lowers the concentration of indoor pollutants.