What is The Best Way to Test Indoor Air Quality in the Home?

Indoor air quality can be affected by a number of different things, and poor or polluted air can be
quite detrimental to health. It is a good idea to have the air quality in your home regularly tested
to ensure your family remains healthy. Air pollutants can come from any number of different
sources, as the air can contain harmful gases such as carbon monoxide and radon, while mold
and mildew are a common problem in many homes during winter. The spores from mold can be
very harmful, and can begin forming within 24 hours of soft furnishings or building materials
becoming damp.

Carbon Monoxide Leak Detection in the Home

Carbon monoxide is especially dangerous as it is almost impossible to detect without having a
proper warning system in place. It doesn't have any smell and is completely colorless so it is
possible for people to be overcome with fumes before they know what is happening. It is caused
by gas generated by the incomplete combustion of fuel used in common household appliances
including fireplaces, stoves, furnaces and water heaters. Once carbon monoxide enters the lungs
it inhibits the transfer of oxygen throughout the body. The best way to detect a carbon monoxide
leak within the home is to buy a small carbon monoxide detector. This sounds an alarm if levels
rise dangerously. A lot of these detectors plug directly into the electricity system, but it is
essential to test them regularly and to make sure they are properly situated to be effective. It is
also a good idea to have a full furnace tune up and to make sure any manufacturer required
maintenance schedules are kept up-to-date, so appliances within the home are all working
properly.

Detecting Radon within the Home

Radon is another very dangerous gas that also is very difficult to detect without having the home
properly tested. The gas is completely odorless and colorless and is able to enter the home
through the basement and through drainage systems. The best way to ensure your home is free
from radon is to call a company with the proper qualifications to deal with this gas, and they'll
also be able to offer radon mitigation services to clean the home. It is essential to do this, as
radon is thought to be one of the main causes of lung cancer.

Detecting Mold, Mildew, Viruses, Bacteria and Pollen

Mold and mildew love to grow in damp conditions, so if your home has areas where
condensation is a problem, or you have recently suffered a water pipe leak than it is worth doing
a visual inspection to see if you have these problems. Mold and mildew can also create a very
distinctive smell. If you find your home has been contaminated then it is essential to clean the
area very thoroughly to ensure all the spores are killed off. Bacteria and pollen can often be
controlled through the use of ultraviolet air cleaners and filters attached to your heating system.
It is essential to make sure these are properly maintained and cleaned out regularly, and that
filters are changed whenever required to ensure the indoor air quality remains the very best it can
be. This is especially important during the winter months when homes tend to be sealed up more
tightly and there is a general lack of ventilation.