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Indoor Air Can Be 2 to 5 Times More Polluted Than Outdoor Air

The COVID-19 pandemic brought the importance of indoor air quality into sharp focus, as people spent more time inside and took steps to minimize the spread of the virus. Despite increased awareness, millions of households still face significant air quality issues, from allergens to volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has found that indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air, emphasizing the need for effective measures to protect our health.

In this guide, HVAC.com discusses the common pollutants found in indoor air, the health risks they pose, and solutions for improving air quality in homes.

Common Indoor Air Pollutants

Several contaminants commonly affect indoor air quality:

Dust
Dust is a mixture of dead skin cells, dirt, carpet fibers, and other debris that can accumulate in homes, especially with poor ventilation or infrequent cleaning. While dust may seem harmless, it often contains dust mites, which can trigger allergic reactions.

Allergens
Indoor allergens like pet dander and pollen can cause respiratory issues. Pet dander consists of skin cells, fur, and saliva that can become airborne, while pollen can enter homes through windows, doors, and ventilation systems, worsening allergy symptoms.

VOCs
Volatile organic compounds, such as pesticides and formaldehyde, are often released by household cleaning products, paints, and building materials. These chemicals can cause headaches, nausea, and even long-term damage to organs like the liver and kidneys.

Combustion Products
Common household appliances like dryers, water heaters, and furnaces produce combustion byproducts, such as carbon dioxide (CO2). If these appliances aren’t properly ventilated, harmful gases can accumulate indoors, posing serious health risks.

Tobacco Smoke
Secondhand smoke from cigarettes, cigars, or pipes releases toxic chemicals into the air. For those living with smokers, it’s recommended to smoke outdoors to prevent indoor contamination.

Moisture
Excess moisture can lead to mold, mildew, and dust mite growth, which can trigger respiratory problems. Water leaks from appliances like furnaces or water heaters should be inspected and repaired immediately to prevent moisture buildup.

Radon
Radon is a radioactive gas that can seep into homes through the soil and foundation. As one of the leading causes of lung cancer, radon should be checked every two years to ensure levels are safe.

Cooking Odors and Fumes
Cooking releases grease, smoke, and other particles into the air, which can affect air quality if not properly ventilated.

Who Is Most Vulnerable to Poor Indoor Air Quality?

While everyone is exposed to indoor air pollution, certain groups are more susceptible to its effects. Those who spend a lot of time indoors—such as young children, elderly individuals, and stay-at-home parents—are at greater risk. People with weak immune systems, respiratory diseases, or cardiovascular conditions are also more vulnerable.

A recent EPA report highlighted that indoor air pollution is linked to half of all pneumonia-related deaths in children under five. Additionally, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 4.3 million people die annually due to indoor air pollution, which is 600,000 more deaths than outdoor pollution causes.

Health Effects of Indoor Air Pollutants

Even short-term exposure to poor indoor air quality can result in symptoms such as:

• Coughing

• Sneezing

• Sore throat

• Dizziness

• Headaches

• Congestion

• Watery eyes

• Fatigue

These symptoms can be mistaken for allergies or colds, so it's important to note when and where they occur. People with asthma or chronic respiratory conditions may experience worsened symptoms when exposed to indoor pollutants.

Long-term exposure to indoor pollutants can have more serious consequences, including heart disease, lung disease, and cancer. Of the 4.3 million annual deaths attributed to poor indoor air quality, 60% are caused by heart conditions, while 40% are linked to lung problems.

How to Improve Indoor Air Quality

Maintaining good indoor air quality is essential for protecting your health. Regular maintenance of your HVAC system, using air purifiers, and ensuring proper ventilation can significantly reduce indoor pollutants. Routine checks for moisture buildup, radon levels, and combustion appliances can also help ensure a healthier home environment.