Why Is Indoor Air Quality Important?

Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) is a serious problem facing homeowners today, according to the American Lung Association. The roots of this problem can be traced directly to the desire for energy-efficient homes to minimize the effects of higher energy costs. Unfortunately, making homes tighter and more energy efficient also reduces the naturally occurring exchange of indoor and outdoor air. Fresh outside air stays out, while air pollutants, excessive humidity and/or overly dry conditions stagnate the indoor air over time.

While homeowners can’t see the majority of indoor air contaminants, they certainly see the effects. These macroscopic particles slowly satin walls, ceilings, furniture, drapes and carpets. Lack of humidity control can keep a home damp and sticky, while excessive dryness can crack woodwork and antiques, or create static electricity and dry skin. Particles attaching to your home’s interior have to be scrubbed, laundered or dry cleaned away at the expense of the homeowner’s time, money and effort.

But costly isn’t the only consequence of dirty, humid, or dry indoor air. It is estimated that one in ten people living in North America suffer from asthma or allergies, and pollen, mold spores and dust-mite debris are among the most troublesome triggers of such ailments. Likewise, bacteria and viruses that can be found in indoor air have the potential to cause and spread disease.

Every cubic foot of air breathed carries a mixture of millions of these tiny annoyances. In small concentrations, these particles and gases may cause discomfort in the home. In significant concentrations, they can cause sickness.