According to the Environmental Protection Agency we spend around 93% of our lives indoors. This is a concerning statistic considering that the EPA also states that concentrations of some pollutants are commonly between 2-5 times worse inside than outside, and in some cases upwards of 100x worse.
Poor indoor air quality can lead to an increased risk of respiratory infections and conditions, headaches, coughing, sneezing, runny or stuffy noses, and more.
Be on the lookout for the following signs of reduced indoor air quality, and consider having your home’s air inspected by an HVAC professional.
1. Frequent Coughing or Issues Breathing
Although potentially a cold, allergy or medical condition, this is a telltale sign that your indoor air quality is subpar.
2. Allergy Symptoms (even outside of allergy season)
A stuffy or runny nose, head and nasal congestion and more are all signs that the air quality inside is triggering your body to react.
3. Skin Irritation or Dryness
Redness, rashes, dryness and/or general irritation of the skin can sometimes be attributed to poor indoor air quality. Indoor allergens and pollutants land on fabric such as bed sheets, pillowcases and furniture where they come into frequent contact with the skin.
4. Frequent Respiratory Infections or Colds
Research has shown that those living in conditions with poor indoor air quality tend to get more upper respiratory infections and colds than those who do not.
5. Excessive Dust Buildup
6. Consistent Odd Smell or Odor