Why Indoor Air Quality Check at Home Matters

Indoor Air Quality Check: Some Quick Facts

Indoor air quality can be worse than that of outdoor air.
Problems can arise from moisture, insects, pets, appliances, radon, materials used in household products and furnishings, smoke, and other sources.
Effects range from minor annoyances to major health risks.
Remedies include ventilation, cleaning, moisture control, inspections, and following manufacturers’ directions when using appliances and products.

Research has shown that the quality of indoor air can be worse than that of outdoor air. Many homes are built or remodeled more tightly, without regard to the factors that assure fresh and healthy indoor air. Our homes today contain many furnishings, appliances and products that can affect indoor air quality. The way to know is by conducting an indoor air quality check.

Problems that would require an indoor air quality check:

unusual and noticeable odors;
stale or stuffy air;
a noticeable lack of air movement;
dirty or faulty central heating or air-conditioning equipment;
damaged flue pipes and chimneys;
unvented combustion air sources for fossil-fuel appliances;
excessive humidity;
the presence of molds and mildew;
adverse health reaction after remodeling, weatherizing, bringing in new furniture, using household and hobby products, and moving into a new home; and
feeling noticeably healthier outside.

Common Sources of Air Quality Problems

Poor indoor air quality can arise from many sources. At least some of the following contaminants can be found in almost any home:

moisture and biological pollutants, such as molds, mildew, dust mites, animal dander, and cockroaches;
high humidity levels, inadequate ventilation, and poorly maintained humidifiers and air conditioners;
combustion products, including carbon monoxide, from unvented fossil-fuel space heaters, unvented gas stoves and ovens, and back-drafting from furnaces and water heaters;
formaldehyde from durable-press draperies and other textiles, particleboard products, such as cabinets and furniture framing, and adhesives;
radon, which is a radioactive gas from the soil and rock beneath and around the home’s foundation, groundwater wells, and some building materials;
household products and furnishings, such as paints, solvents, air fresheners, hobby supplies, dry-cleaned clothing, aerosol sprays, adhesives, and fabric additives used in carpeting and furniture, which can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs);
asbestos, which is found in most homes more than 20 years old. Sources include deteriorating, damaged and disturbed pipe insulation, fire retardant, acoustical material (such as ceiling tiles) and floor tiles;
lead from lead-based paint dust, which is created when removing paint by sanding, scraping and burning;
particulates from dust and pollen, fireplaces, wood stoves, kerosene heaters and unvented gas space heaters; and
tobacco smoke, which produces particulates, combustion products and formaldehyde.

air quality testing by real inspection services

Remedies to Indoor Air Quality Problems Living Areas

Living Areas & General Home

Q: Can furniture and cabinetry release harmful gases?
A: Yes, paneling, pressed-wood furniture, and cabinetry can release formaldehyde gas. Ask about formaldehyde content before purchasing. Opt for products with phenol resin or sealed with polyurethane or laminates. After installation, ventilate by opening windows and maintain moderate temperature and humidity.
Q: What should I do if my carpet is water-damaged or new?
A: Clean and dry water-damaged carpet promptly or remove it. Use low-emitting adhesives if needed. During installation, ventilate with open doors/windows and fans. Vacuum regularly and consider area rugs instead of wall-to-wall carpet for easier cleaning.
Q: Are floor tiles a concern for asbestos?
A: Yes, some tiles may contain asbestos. Inspect regularly for damage but do not cut, sand, or remove them. Contact professionals if asbestos is damaged or renovations will disturb it. Reach out to your state health department or EPA for guidance.
Q: How does moisture impact indoor air quality?
A: Moisture encourages biological pollutants like mold, mildew, and dust mites. Eliminate moisture sources, use exhaust fans, or a dehumidifier. Clean mold with 1 cup bleach to 1 gallon water. Maintain airflow and ventilation.
Q: Are fireplaces a source of indoor air pollutants?
A: Yes, fireplaces can emit carbon monoxide. Always open the flue when in use. Have the chimney inspected annually. Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Q: Can air conditioners cause allergen issues?
A: Yes. Empty and clean water trays regularly and replace filters as recommended. Follow all manufacturer maintenance guidelines.

Q: Can furniture and cabinetry release harmful gases?
A: Yes, paneling, pressed-wood furniture, and cabinetry can release formaldehyde gas. Ask about formaldehyde content before purchasing. Opt for products with phenol resin or sealed with polyurethane or laminates. After installation, ventilate by opening windows and maintain moderate temperature and humidity.
Q: What should I do if my carpet is water-damaged or new?
A: Clean and dry water-damaged carpet promptly or remove it. Use low-emitting adhesives if needed. During installation, ventilate with open doors/windows and fans. Vacuum regularly and consider area rugs instead of wall-to-wall carpet for easier cleaning.
Q: Are floor tiles a concern for asbestos?
A: Yes, some tiles may contain asbestos. Inspect regularly for damage but do not cut, sand, or remove them. Contact professionals if asbestos is damaged or renovations will disturb it. Reach out to your state health department or EPA for guidance.
Q: How does moisture impact indoor air quality?
A: Moisture encourages biological pollutants like mold, mildew, and dust mites. Eliminate moisture sources, use exhaust fans, or a dehumidifier. Clean mold with 1 cup bleach to 1 gallon water. Maintain airflow and ventilation.
Q: Are fireplaces a source of indoor air pollutants?
A: Yes, fireplaces can emit carbon monoxide. Always open the flue when in use. Have the chimney inspected annually. Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Q: Can air conditioners cause allergen issues?
A: Yes. Empty and clean water trays regularly and replace filters as recommended. Follow all manufacturer maintenance guidelines.

Kitchen

Q: Do cleaning products cause indoor pollution?
A: Yes. Choose non-toxic, nonaerosol products. Follow manufacturer directions and dispose properly. Use up products before discarding containers.
Q: Are kitchen cabinets a source of formaldehyde?
A: Yes. Choose solid wood, metal, or phenol resin cabinets. Keep indoor temps below 80°F and humidity around 45%. Ventilate well after installation.
Q: Do gas stoves pose a risk?
A: Yes. Keep burners clean and well-adjusted. Use an exhaust fan and never use a gas stove for heating.

Bathroom

Q: Do personal care products affect air quality?
A: Yes. Use low-odor, nonaerosol products. Ventilate by opening a window or using an exhaust fan.
Q: Are air fresheners safe?
A: Some release organic gases. Choose natural alternatives. Always ventilate and follow usage directions.

Bedroom

Q: Can humidifiers and vaporizers cause issues?
A: Yes. They can support mold and bacteria growth. Clean and refill them daily as directed.
Q: Are moth repellents safe?
A: Use cautiously. Store in sealed containers away from living areas. Avoid inhaling vapors.
Q: Is dry-cleaned clothing a concern?
A: It can be. Air out dry-cleaned items before bringing them inside. Consider green or hand-wash alternatives.

Utility Room

Q: Can dryers affect indoor air quality?
A: Yes. Unvented gas dryers emit carbon monoxide. Vent outside, clean lint traps and ducts, and ensure airflow.
Q: Do furnaces and boilers create pollutants?
A: Yes. Have systems inspected annually. Ensure proper venting and gas piping.
Q: Is asbestos insulation dangerous?
A: Yes. Inspect for damage but do not disturb. Contact professionals if repairs or removal are needed.

Basement

Q: How do I control basement moisture?
A: Inspect for water, leaks, or condensation. Improve drainage, install gutters, grade soil away from the foundation, and seal walls. Consider a sump pump or humidity-controlled exhaust fan. Clean floor drains and remove mold/mildew.
Q: Should I test for radon?
A: Yes. Use DIY kits. If levels exceed 4 pCi/L, hire a certified radon mitigation contractor.
Q: Are hobby supplies a hazard?
A: Yes. Use outdoors if possible. Indoors, ventilate well and follow all directions. Reseal and store containers properly.

Garage

Q: Is car or engine exhaust dangerous in a garage?
A: Extremely. Never run engines inside. Carbon monoxide can build up quickly.
Q: Are paint and cleaning supplies in the garage a risk?
A: Yes. Use only what you need, ventilate well, seal containers, and use outdoors if possible. Prefer non-toxic alternatives.
Q: Are pesticides and fertilizers hazardous?
A: Yes. Use non-chemical options when possible. Follow all safety and storage directions. Change clothes and clean up after use.

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

- Install a smoke detector in each bedroom or in the adjacent hallway.
- If you have gas or other fossil-fuel appliances in the house, install carbon monoxide detectors in these locations.
- Combination smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are available.
- Check the batteries frequently, at least annually.

Understanding Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality

Q: Why is ventilation important in a home?
A: Without adequate outdoor air entering the home, indoor pollutants can accumulate to levels that pose health and comfort risks. Homes built to be energy-efficient and airtight often have lower natural air exchange and may trap more pollutants unless mechanical ventilation is used.
Q: How does outdoor air enter a home?
A: Outdoor air can enter a home in three main ways:
- Infiltration: Air seeps in through openings, cracks, and joints in walls, ceilings, floors, windows, and doors.
- Natural Ventilation: Occurs when windows and doors are opened to allow air to move freely.
- Mechanical Ventilation: Uses fans and duct systems to remove stale indoor air and replace it with filtered outdoor air. Examples include bathroom/kitchen exhaust fans and whole-house ventilation systems.
Air movement from infiltration and natural ventilation is typically driven by temperature differences between inside and outside air and by wind.
Q: What is the air-exchange rate and why does it matter?
A: The air-exchange rate refers to how quickly outdoor air replaces indoor air. When infiltration, natural, or mechanical ventilation is low, the exchange rate drops—causing pollutant levels indoors to rise. This can significantly affect indoor air quality.

Indoor Air Pollution and Health Effects

Q: What are the short-term health effects of indoor air pollution?
A: Immediate symptoms may occur after one or multiple exposures and include:
- Eye, nose, and throat irritation
- Headaches and dizziness
- Fatigue
These effects are often short-lived and resolve when the source of exposure is removed. Some indoor pollutants may also trigger or worsen:
- Asthma
- Hypersensitivity pneumonitis
- Humidifier fever
Sensitivity varies widely between individuals, and some people become sensitized after repeated exposure to biological or chemical pollutants. Note: These symptoms can resemble colds or viral illnesses, making the cause harder to identify. If symptoms disappear when leaving the home, indoor air sources should be investigated.
Q: What factors increase the likelihood of immediate health effects?
A: Several factors influence susceptibility to indoor air pollutants:
- Age (children and elderly are more vulnerable)
- Pre-existing health conditions
- Individual sensitivity or allergic reactions
- Lack of fresh air circulation
- Poor heating, cooling, or humidity control
Q: Can indoor air pollution cause long-term health effects?
A: Yes. Long-term effects may not appear for years or may result from repeated exposure. These may include:
- Respiratory illnesses
- Heart disease
- Cancer
These effects can be severe or even fatal. Even without visible symptoms, improving indoor air quality is a wise preventive measure.
Q: How much exposure is too much?
A: Unfortunately, there’s still uncertainty about which concentrations or durations of exposure cause specific health issues. Some people may suffer harmful effects from relatively low exposures, while others may not. More research is needed to fully understand the long-term health risks associated with common indoor air pollutants.

Still Have Questions About An Indoor Quality Check?

Trust Real Inspection Services for expert home inspections in Chicago and the suburbs. Ready to test your air? Schedule your air quality test below.

I Need An Air Quality Test