According to the American Lung Association, 131 million Americans live in places with unhealthy air pollution levels. The Columbus metro area is an example; ground-level ozone (smog) and particle pollution are common problems here. Indeed, the area’s smog pollution ranking in the latest report was worse than in the previous one.
Reading all that may have made you think, “Oh, I’m fine since I spend most of my time indoors.” Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. Indoor pollution can sometimes be worse than outdoor pollution.
Therefore, it pays to know how to test indoor air quality (IAQ) to determine whether your home’s air is healthy or polluted.
Luckily, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, the experts at Aire-Flo Heating, Cooling & Generators will explore the top methods and tools you can use for home air quality testing.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detectors With Displays
As the City of Columbus Government explains, carbon monoxide is dangerous, even deadly. It’s one of the most crucial pollutant gases you should monitor or test for.
CO is a byproduct of the incomplete combustion of fuels, including those used in transportation. At home, this invisible and odorless gas can come from gas or propane appliances, such as ovens, furnaces, and automatic standby generators.
Home appliances generally have fans or mechanisms that allow them to exhaust combustion gases they generate to the outdoors. However, they can still leak CO inside the home due to improper venting practices or a lack of maintenance. For this reason, one of the most crucial indoor air quality tips is to schedule regular oven, furnace, and generator maintenance.
You should also install carbon monoxide detectors. They measure CO levels and alert you of high levels, usually by sounding an alarm. However, some of the latest detectors also allow you to “test” for CO by displaying your home’s current CO levels or readings.
Hygrometers to Test Humidity Levels
Hygrometers are small tools that measure humidity (the air’s moisture content or water vapor level). Humidity is a critical factor in IAQ because it can affect the behavior of airborne pollutants. According to the U.S. EPA, high humidity levels can increase the concentration of some pollutants.
An example is mold. Mold loves humid environments, so the more humid the inside of your home is, the more likely you’ll encounter indoor molds.
Excessive humidity can also degrade materials, such as wood and paper. As they degrade, they may emit particles that become airborne and cause your IAQ to drop.
The U.S. EPA recommends keeping indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%.
Air Quality Monitors
Another method to test your home’s IAQ is by installing the best air quality monitors. They’re devices that continuously monitor the air for contaminants and hazards, such as:
- Carbon monoxide
- Radon
- Particulate matter
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
- Formaldehyde
- Humidity
Some air quality monitors use electrochemical sensors to detect the presence of toxins in the air. Others use laser technology to monitor and gauge the amount of harmful particulates in the air.
Mold Tests
You can often tell you have a mold issue at home by using your sense of sight and smell. You’ll usually find or smell them in humid areas of your home, such as:
- Bathrooms
- Kitchen
- Basement
- Attic
- Laundry area
- Indoor air conditioning unit
However, molds can also grow in hidden spots, such as under floors, behind walls, and within ceilings. If you ventilate your home regularly (e.g., you usually open your windows), you may be unable to smell their stale, earthy odors.
If you suspect a mold problem at home and have a hygrometer or air quality monitor, check the humidity readings on your device. If they’re far over 50%, you likely have a humidity-related mold issue. Contact a plumber (to find and fix water leaks) and an HVAC pro (to help with indoor humidity control).
Radon Testers
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas. It forms when radioactive metals in groundwater, soil, and rocks break down. Examples of such metals are radium, thorium, and uranium.
Because radon comes from the earth, it is everywhere. It can enter your home through cracks and gaps.
You want to test your home for radon because it’s a leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers, according to the National Library of Medicine. There’s no other way to tell if there’s a dangerous build-up in your home except through testing. After all, this gas is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, and exposure to it doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms.
Some radon testers, such as monitors, are active devices that constantly use power to measure indoor radon levels. Others, such as alpha track detectors, don’t rely on power and can provide short-term measurements.
Professional Indoor Air Quality Testing
Professional indoor air quality testing is a comprehensive service that identifies contaminants and pollutants inside your home. IAQ experts use specialized equipment and tools to assess and unearth the source of your home’s air quality woes, including those discussed above.
Aire-Flo Heating, Cooling & Generators provides professional IAQ testing. We serve Columbus and nearby Central Ohio communities, including Dublin, Upper Arlington, and Bexley.
Once we’ve determined what’s plaguing your IAQ, we’ll help you develop a plan to remedy the problem. We may recommend various solutions for improving indoor air quality, such as:
- Air duct cleaning
- Ventilation improvements, including ventilators
- Air cleaners and purifiers
- Humidifiers
- Ultraviolet (UV) lamps
You can also trust us to provide high-quality, prompt HVAC and generator services, including repairs and maintenance. Remember, ill-maintained HVAC systems and generators can also contribute to poor IAQ, so keeping them in tip-top condition can help you achieve better indoor air quality at home.
How to Test Indoor Air Quality: Now You Know
Now that you know how to test indoor air quality at home, it’s time to invest in essential tools like hygrometers, CO detectors with displays, or air monitors. You should also consider running mold and radon tests and hiring us here at Aire-Flo Heating, Cooling & Generators for a more comprehensive test.
Aire-Flo Heating, Cooling & Generators has been Columbus and the surrounding Central Ohio communities’ comfort experts since 1951. With our 70+ years of industry experience, plus our EPA-certified and NATE-certified technicians, we can help you achieve optimal IAQ and comfort at home.
Contact us today to schedule your IAQ, HVAC, or generator services!
Whether you require installation, repair, or maintenance, our technicians will assist you with top-quality service at any time of the day or night. Take comfort in knowing your indoor air quality is the best it can be with MOE heating & cooling services Ontario's solution for heating, air conditioning, and ventilation that’s cooler than the rest.
Contact us to schedule a visit. Our qualified team of technicians, are always ready to help you and guide you for heating and cooling issues. Weather you want to replace an old furnace or install a brand new air conditioner, we are here to help you. Our main office is at Kitchener but we can service most of Ontario's cities
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