VOLATILE ORGANIC COMPOUNDS
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) represent a broad category of chemicals that are present in numerous products we use to build and maintain our homes. Once these chemicals are in our homes, they are discharged or “off-gas” into the indoor air we breathe. They may or may not emit odors, so smelling is not a good indicator of health risk.
The good news is, with proper management, you can control the levels in your home, and bring them down to a safer level. Your contractor can help you problem solve and get your home to the best version of itself.
WHAT ARE VOCs?
Particles, or particulate matter (PM) is a microscopic mixture of solid dust particles and liquid droplets found in the air, invisible to the eye. The smallest particles pose the greatest health risk. PM 2.5 is small enough to get in the deepest part of our lungs and even into the blood stream.
- Your contractor used AirAdvice’s calibrated M5200 IAQ Monitor to measure particles in the range of 0.3 to PM2.5 microns.
- Examples of PM 2.5 particles include (but are not limited to): bacteria and viruses, cigarette smoke, lead dust, and asbestos.
- PM 10 particles (measured with old monitors) include allergens such as: dust mites, pet dander, pollen, mold, and microscopic dust.
- A micron (or micrometer) is one millionth of a meter. For perspective, a human hair is about 50-70 microns in diameter.
- Particles less than PM 50 are not visible.
- Because there is no established safe level of PM 2.5, experts recommend achieving the lowest level that is reasonably possible.
- The good news: filtration is a safe, proven method to remove particles. And properly vented kitchen exhaust can remove particles from the source.
HEALTH CONCERNS
Exposure to VOCs is associated with:
- Eye, nose, and throat irritation, difficulty breathing, asthma
- Central nervous system damage, headaches, and dizziness
- Skin problems
- Damage to the liver and/or kidneys
- Linked to fertility issues, cancers, neurological and learning disabilities
POTENTIAL CAUSES
- Building materials and furnishings: furniture, flooring, wood products, rugs, carpets, paints, sealants, glues, adhesives and insulation
- Household Products: cleaning supplies, cosmetics, scented products, air fresheners, and toys . Stored fuels in attached garages .
AIRADVICE PROTIP:
Go beyond central air cleaning by adding portable HEPA where you spend the most time. Here’s how.