Understanding Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality (IAQ) is determined by measuring the number of pollutants present in the air inside your home. If there are a large number of pollutants in the air, your home is said to suffer from poor IAQ. If there are relatively few pollutants in your home, it is said to enjoy good IAQ. The better the IAQ in your home, the better you will feel.

What Factors Affect IAQ?

Pollutants in the air are the primary causes of poor IAQ. However, air quality can also be compromised by poor air circulation and ventilation. Remember that all of the following can cause IAQ problems:

• Particle pollutants such as smog, cigarette smoke and car exhaust.
• Dust, pollen, mold and mildew.
• Pollutants found in upholstery, carpeting, draperies and household cleaning products.
• Carbon monoxide and other noxious gases.
• Excess moisture in the air.