Indoor air quality means you can be productive and live a healthy life. But it’s an aspect of modern living that most never consider! This is especially true in Ontario, where icy winters create homes that need to close tighter and tighter to keep the cold air at bay and the interior warmth intact. This often leads to decreased air quality, and people suffer indoors with unfortunate and horrible health consequences, from allergy-related symptoms to acute respiratory issues to chronic concerns.
This article will discuss the necessity of proper indoor air quality in an Ontario home, the source of issues and their health concerns, and how to keep your indoor air quality safe year round.
Climate Impacts on Indoor Air Quality
For instance, in the frigid winters and muggy summers, during the long periods of time when residents keep their windows closed, air quality diminishes with the buildup of interior pollutants. Regardless, however, Ontario has an older housing stock, with a significant percentage of older homes with either poor ventilation or developments with asbestos or lead paint that would drastically affect indoor air quality.
Who Is Most Impacted by Poor Indoor Air Quality?
Everyone is impacted by poor indoor air quality, but the most vulnerable populations are affected even more harshly. Children and the elderly, as well as those with comorbidities, are the most sensitive. The range of symptoms people feel from poor indoor air quality often includes headaches, malaise, dizziness, increased asthma symptoms, or allergy-like symptoms.
What’s in the Air?
Mold & Mildew: Higher humidity levels let mold flourish with common growth in basements and bathrooms. Mold spores act as irritants creating allergy-like responses and respiratory issues.
Dust & Allergens: Dust mites, dander, and pollen in carpets, soft goods, and duct systems disrupt air quality.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, are released by certain paints, cleaning materials, air fresheners, and other common items located within the home.
Carbon Dioxide and Radon: Carbon dioxide is produced by poorly maintained heating systems or furnaces, while radon is a natural gas that emits from the ground but settles within homes.
What Contributes to Poor Indoor Air Quality?
Poor indoor air quality is the result of air being too stagnant and not circulating, and homes sealed up too well in the winter, especially new homes designed with energy efficiency in mind.
How You Can Change Indoor Air Quality in Your Ontario Home
Moisture Control: Use a dehumidifier in damp areas like basements to prevent mold growth. Ensure proper ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens to reduce moisture buildup.
Control Gasses: Have your home tested for radon; this is a common occurrence in Ontario, especially in older homes. If you have it, you’ll need one installed mitigation system. Put carbon monoxide detectors on every floor and next to every sleeping space.
Use Low VOC Products: Select low-VOC items: Buy low-VOC paint, low-VOC cleaners, low-VOC materials to minimize chemical irritants in your space.
Create Air Flow: Keep windows open whenever possible to promote air circulation. Invest in an energy recovery ventilator (ERV) or heat recovery ventilator (HRV) to provide air flow without expelling your heat.
Stay Clean: Vacuum your carpets and upholstered furniture with a HEPA-filter vacuum regularly. Dust and launder your sheets frequently.
Tackle Mold Right Away: If mold occurs, fix the problem immediately when it happens. Use water and vinegar or call in a professional for large outbreaks.
Ways to Breathe Easy with Home Inspections
A surefire way to breathe easy is to have a home inspection by a professional. A home inspector will: search for mold, mildew, and water stains; assess the HVAC system for functionality and cleanliness; test for radon and carbon monoxide; review ventilation systems and provide feedback. By discovering these issues and concerns early on, it minimizes future health issues and keeps the home a safe haven for all.
The Bottom Line
No matter the season, your Ontario home needs proper air quality. From mold and allergens to radon and VOCs, many substances impact your breathing air. Yet with a little knowledge about ventilation, humidity control, and your ability to manage on-site pollutants, you can minimize air quality issues for you and your family.
If you’re concerned about your air quality or need a professional evaluation, reach out to Building Insights today. Our professional home inspectors will guarantee your home is safe and comfortable all year round.