Combatting VOCs and Other Indoor Air Pollutants

Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, are chemicals that can’t be dissolved in water. They persist as a vapor in the air. Most of them are from man-made sources. Exposure to VOCs, such as breathing them into your lungs, can cause a variety of serious short-term and long-term health effects. Fortunately, mechanical ventilators, whole-home air purifiers, and other solutions are available to combat this type of indoor air pollution in your Greensboro, NC home.

Identify and Control Sources of VOCs

You might be surprised about all the sources of VOCs in your home. According to the EPA, some common household sources of VOCs include cosmetics, waxes, varnishes, paints, adhesives, cleaning supplies, and degreasers. Plastics, particleboard, dry-cleaned clothing, carpet, and furniture may also release VOCs. Many of these household items have VOC-free alternatives. When there isn’t one available, allowing items to off-gas outdoors will reduce the number of chemicals the products release into your home.

Improve Airflow with Mechanical Ventilators

When you do use items that release VOCs, it’s important to increase your home’s airflow rate as much as possible. The best way to do this is with mechanical ventilators. A whole-home fan is a good option. In the wintertime, a heat recovery ventilator or energy recovery ventilator is a wise choice. It saves you money by preventing heat loss during the process of air exchange.

Install a Whole-home Air Purifier

A whole-home air purifier can be installed into your home’s ductwork. It filters all of the air heated or cooled by your HVAC system. Each time the HVAC system cycles, the air purifier cleans the air. These systems remove bacteria, viruses, allergens, and VOCs. They’re an ideal solution for households that include a baby, elderly person, or anyone with a breathing disorder, chronic medical condition.

For additional details about combating volatile organic compounds VOCs and other indoor air pollutants, take a look at Total Heating & Cooling, Inc.’s indoor air quality solutions, or contact us today.