Why You Should Test Your Air Quality at Home

There are a variety of reasons why a quality assessment should be done on indoor air quality. Many contributing factors could contribute to poor indoor air quality (IQ). Indoor air contains more than just oxygen; it contains microscopic pathogens, dust particles, allergens, and other substances that could be harmful to people. The majority of indoor air quality testing is done in the home; although, some air quality testing may also be done in work areas, such as those found in factories and schools.

If indoor air quality testing is performed on an annual basis, it helps to remove possible signs of indoor air pollution and illness, as well as identifying current issues that need to be corrected. In addition to that, indoor air quality testing can also determine how much pollution is currently present in the air. A simple test will tell if there is more dust, mold, bacteria, allergens or other contaminants in the air than would be expected based on readings taken at a single time. Indoor air quality testing is often recommended to families who have a tendency to be sick or have respiratory concerns more often than others.

When considering indoor air quality testing, there are several potential contaminants to look for. Some of these are microscopic pathogens, which include bacteria, viruses, and fungi. These are by far the most common contaminants of indoor air. Other potential contaminants are mold spores, which could indicate a serious problem with water damage. Mold spores can cause many health problems, particularly respiratory illnesses. In addition, a lack of carbon monoxide can indicate a problem with ventilation and heating systems in the home.

When testing the indoor air quality of a home, many professionals recommend sample collection at least once per week, preferably more often. Samples may be collected through different means, such as with a vacuum cleaner, wet cloth, aerosol spray, or another method recommended by the manufacturer. Some homeowners choose to collect their own samples, but there are many reasons why sampling should be done regularly. Collecting and analyzing samples provides valuable information about the air your family is breathing, which can help reduce the spread of germs and contaminants. It also helps you identify the source of any health concerns you may have.

Although no one wants to think about germs, viruses or other health risks, it’s better to be safe than sorry. With some inexpensive tests available, you can determine the quality of air in your home before serious issues arise. If your ventilation and heating systems aren’t functioning properly, for example, your occupants could be exposed to harmful bacteria. However, the only way to be completely sure is by performing indoor air quality testing. A professional can check for contaminants and make recommendations about your ventilation system. They may also suggest ways to improve it.

Indoor air quality testing kits come in various shapes and sizes to accommodate most homeowner’s needs. For larger homes or offices, it may be necessary to rent a laboratory. Many professionals offer this service, so it shouldn’t be difficult to find a lab that will work with you. The kits themselves are fairly small, typically only weighing between a few ounces and a few grams. Most are easy enough to use that your occupants will feel comfortable collecting their own samples.