Wet carpeting is an ideal mold breeding ground if it is not dried immediately. Carpeting can dry quickly if you have a low relative humidity air around it. If the surrounding air has high relative humidity, it won't dry. In as little as 24 to 48 hours, mold spores become active.
According to the EPA, "The key to mold control is moisture control." Any wet-process carpet cleaning will always leave enough moisture in the carpet to grow mold. An effective drying process is necessary.
Effective drying can be accomplished with several methods:
One method is by "natural" drying. If the outside air is warm and dry, open the windows. Moisture equalizes quite readily.
A second method is by adding heat. If the outside air is cold (below 50F), ventilating and heating the air quickly will dry the carpet.
By properly using the air conditioning unit...I the weather is hot, the A/C unit cools the air and removes some water. When the A/C shuts off (because the temperature is satisfied), an increase in heat must trigger the A/C to operate again. If the A/C unit is constantly providing low RH to the space, the carpet will dry. But..beware... improper use of the A/C, can create ideal conditions for mold growth!
A last resort and a sure-fire method to work is by using a de-humidifier to provide the dry air necessary to guarantee carpet drying .
In each case, use fans to speed up the drying process.
Simply lowering the thermostat to make the A/C operate, can actually create condensation and increase moisture. For example, if the dew point of the outdoor air is 70°F, cooling surfaces below 70°F will cause condensation. To avoid this problem of "over cooling", an A/C unit requires 'reheat."
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Removing Mold From Carpeting
Whenever working with mold and mildew, you should always wear protective gear. Don't touch mold or moldy items with your bare hands. Always wear gloves that cover up to the middle of your forearm. Non-ventilated goggles, are a must to keep mold and mold spores from getting into your eyes.
The first step in cleaning up moldy areas is to find the source of excess moisture and water. Look for any roof or plumbing leaks or flood damage that still needs repair. Check the air ducts in your home for mold as heating/ventilation/air conditioning systems can spread mold throughout the rest of your home. Complete this step first.
Next, determine if the area of mold growth is small enough that you can remediate it yourself or if you should hire a mold remediator. If the area of mold growth is more than 1 to 10 square feet, you should definitely hire a pro. When looking for a specialist in carpet and rug cleaning, make sure that they specialize in dealing with mold problems.
The final step, is to begin the cleaning process. A very small area on a carpet can be cleaned with a simple solution of detergent and water in a steam-cleaning machine. Wet the surface and suck up the water, repeat until the water starts coming out clear. If detergent and water doesn’t work try some Molderizer or some other organic mold cleaner.
Another method to try is quite a bit more extensive. You can use a sanitizing agent such as hypochlorite, or household bleach. The solution is made with 1 cup bleach to 1 gallon of water. This solution can be used on hard surfaces as well as carpets and rugs. To be effective the solution must remain on the surface for 15 minutes. For indoor or outdoor carpeting and rugs you must remove them from the home and place them on a flat area outside. Hose both sides thoroughly to remove dirt and soil. Dump several buckets of the bleach solution on each side and scrub with a broom. A better solution would be repeatedly scrubbing the carpeting with Borax laundry detergent [a natural mold cleaner] mixed into warm water. You need to scrub both sides of carpeting and padding in the mold-growth areas. Rinse well, and remove as much water as possible with a wet/dry vacuum. Allow the carpet to dry thoroughly.
Always dry the area completely by opening all windows, using a heater, fan, or dehumidifier. This is very important, or the mold will just grow back. Remember to check for colorfastness in an inconspicuous area 24 hours before doing a complete carpet cleaning.
It is a good idea to know what kind of flooring is under your carpet. If it is something that will be ruined by wetting the floor, even for a short time, you might want to reconsider or be very careful not to use very much water.
Materials, such as carpets and rugs, may have to be thrown away if they become too moldy. Mold grows in the spaces and crevices of porous materials and can keep growing back. It may be difficult, if not impossible to remove. Replacing carpet may be the only way that you can guarantee that mold will not still grow in the area.
The first step in cleaning up moldy areas is to find the source of excess moisture and water. Look for any roof or plumbing leaks or flood damage that still needs repair. Check the air ducts in your home for mold as heating/ventilation/air conditioning systems can spread mold throughout the rest of your home. Complete this step first.
Next, determine if the area of mold growth is small enough that you can remediate it yourself or if you should hire a mold remediator. If the area of mold growth is more than 1 to 10 square feet, you should definitely hire a pro. When looking for a specialist in carpet and rug cleaning, make sure that they specialize in dealing with mold problems.
The final step, is to begin the cleaning process. A very small area on a carpet can be cleaned with a simple solution of detergent and water in a steam-cleaning machine. Wet the surface and suck up the water, repeat until the water starts coming out clear. If detergent and water doesn’t work try some Molderizer or some other organic mold cleaner.
Another method to try is quite a bit more extensive. You can use a sanitizing agent such as hypochlorite, or household bleach. The solution is made with 1 cup bleach to 1 gallon of water. This solution can be used on hard surfaces as well as carpets and rugs. To be effective the solution must remain on the surface for 15 minutes. For indoor or outdoor carpeting and rugs you must remove them from the home and place them on a flat area outside. Hose both sides thoroughly to remove dirt and soil. Dump several buckets of the bleach solution on each side and scrub with a broom. A better solution would be repeatedly scrubbing the carpeting with Borax laundry detergent [a natural mold cleaner] mixed into warm water. You need to scrub both sides of carpeting and padding in the mold-growth areas. Rinse well, and remove as much water as possible with a wet/dry vacuum. Allow the carpet to dry thoroughly.
Always dry the area completely by opening all windows, using a heater, fan, or dehumidifier. This is very important, or the mold will just grow back. Remember to check for colorfastness in an inconspicuous area 24 hours before doing a complete carpet cleaning.
It is a good idea to know what kind of flooring is under your carpet. If it is something that will be ruined by wetting the floor, even for a short time, you might want to reconsider or be very careful not to use very much water.
Materials, such as carpets and rugs, may have to be thrown away if they become too moldy. Mold grows in the spaces and crevices of porous materials and can keep growing back. It may be difficult, if not impossible to remove. Replacing carpet may be the only way that you can guarantee that mold will not still grow in the area.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Minimize Health-Related Risks from Carpets
Recently, many consumers have associated a variety of health symptoms with the installation of new carpeting. Scientists have not been able to determine whether the chemicals emitted by new carpets are responsible. If you are installing new carpeting, you may wish to take the following steps:
1) Talk to your carpet retailer. Ask for information on emissions from carpet.
2) Ask the retailer to unroll and air out the carpet in a well-ventilated area before installation.
3) Ask for low-emitting adhesives if adhesives are needed.
4) Consider leaving the premises during and immediately after carpet installation. You may wish to schedule the installation when most family
are away from home.
5) Be sure the retailer requires the installer to follow the Carpet and Rug Institute's installation guidelines.
6) Open doors and windows. Increasing the amount of fresh air in the home will reduce exposure to most chemicals released from carpet. During
and after installation, use window fans, room air conditioners, or other mechanical ventilation equipment you may have installed in your
house, to exhaust fumes to the outdoors. Keep them running for 48 to 72 hours after the new carpet is installed.
7) Contact your carpet retailer if objectionable odors persist.
8) Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper carpet maintenance.
1) Talk to your carpet retailer. Ask for information on emissions from carpet.
2) Ask the retailer to unroll and air out the carpet in a well-ventilated area before installation.
3) Ask for low-emitting adhesives if adhesives are needed.
4) Consider leaving the premises during and immediately after carpet installation. You may wish to schedule the installation when most family
are away from home.
5) Be sure the retailer requires the installer to follow the Carpet and Rug Institute's installation guidelines.
6) Open doors and windows. Increasing the amount of fresh air in the home will reduce exposure to most chemicals released from carpet. During
and after installation, use window fans, room air conditioners, or other mechanical ventilation equipment you may have installed in your
house, to exhaust fumes to the outdoors. Keep them running for 48 to 72 hours after the new carpet is installed.
7) Contact your carpet retailer if objectionable odors persist.
8) Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper carpet maintenance.
Simple Household Tips for Odor Removal
Add an appealing freshness to your home by following these handy hints on how to eliminate polluted indoor odors.
No matter how attractive your home may look, the whole effect is ruined if there are unpleasant lingering smells. Luckily, most normal household smells are easy to detect and simple to deal with or can be avoided altogether by a regular cleaning routine. Keeping rooms well ventilated by opening doors and windows also addss to freshening a "smelly" home. Add an air cleaner and you are well on your way.
In the kitchen:
Offensive or persistent odors associated with the preparation and storage of food occurs regularly in the kitchen, but there is usually a simple remedy at hand. Remove lingering smells from a refrigerator by washing the inside with a solution of 2 teaspoons of bicarbonate of soda dissolved in 2 pints (1 liter) of warm water. Use a piece of crumpled newspaper in the refrigerator to help absorb smells, as do charcoal-based 'fridge fresheners' which are now widely available from supermarkets.
Keep sink drains clean and fresh smelling by regularly throwing in a handful of baking soda and washing it thoroughly with boiling water.
Deodorize a microwave oven by wiping the inside with lemon juice, or add a few drops of lemon juice to a bowl of hot water and bring it to the boil - the steam banishes smells.
In the bathroom:
Keeping the toilet scrupulously clean cuts down the risk of unpleasant smells. Thoroughly scrub the inside of the bowl every day using a proprietary cleaner and a toilet brush. If the surface glaze of the bowl is in good condition, use bleach to remove smells and stains, but never mix bleach with other cleaners as the resulting gases could be toxic or explosive. If there are small children in the house watch out for evidence of 'accidents' or poor aim - a urine-soaked carpet becomes a problem if not treated immediately. Use an old toothbrush or bottle-cleaning brush to get rid of any offensive deposits in the bath or basin overflow.
No matter how attractive your home may look, the whole effect is ruined if there are unpleasant lingering smells. Luckily, most normal household smells are easy to detect and simple to deal with or can be avoided altogether by a regular cleaning routine. Keeping rooms well ventilated by opening doors and windows also addss to freshening a "smelly" home. Add an air cleaner and you are well on your way.
In the kitchen:
Offensive or persistent odors associated with the preparation and storage of food occurs regularly in the kitchen, but there is usually a simple remedy at hand. Remove lingering smells from a refrigerator by washing the inside with a solution of 2 teaspoons of bicarbonate of soda dissolved in 2 pints (1 liter) of warm water. Use a piece of crumpled newspaper in the refrigerator to help absorb smells, as do charcoal-based 'fridge fresheners' which are now widely available from supermarkets.
Keep sink drains clean and fresh smelling by regularly throwing in a handful of baking soda and washing it thoroughly with boiling water.
Deodorize a microwave oven by wiping the inside with lemon juice, or add a few drops of lemon juice to a bowl of hot water and bring it to the boil - the steam banishes smells.
In the bathroom:
Keeping the toilet scrupulously clean cuts down the risk of unpleasant smells. Thoroughly scrub the inside of the bowl every day using a proprietary cleaner and a toilet brush. If the surface glaze of the bowl is in good condition, use bleach to remove smells and stains, but never mix bleach with other cleaners as the resulting gases could be toxic or explosive. If there are small children in the house watch out for evidence of 'accidents' or poor aim - a urine-soaked carpet becomes a problem if not treated immediately. Use an old toothbrush or bottle-cleaning brush to get rid of any offensive deposits in the bath or basin overflow.
Lack of Humidity ...and Respiratory Ailments
Lack of humidity in a home may be a major of various respiratory ailments. Fortunately, there is a method to improve the humidity levels within your home that will help reduce ailments related to dry respiratory membranes.
It is recommended that a home's humidity level should be between 30 and 50 percent. However, during extremely cold weather, a home loses humidity to the outside and the level can drop to as low as 10 percent. When humidity levels fall, it is ideal to have a humidifier on hand to make sure that the correct level of moisture is present in the air.
Controlling the amount of moisture in the air is needed for your family's health. when you don't have enough dampness in the air, it can cause dryness in the membranes of the nose, throat and bronchial tubes and may become the source of various health-related problems. Respiratory infections and repetitious attacks of winter colds could be the result of not enough humidity during the cold winter months. Relative humidity also has a tremendous effect on controlling the occurrence of airborne infections.
In addition to the health benefits, you need a humidifier to keep room environments comfortable. Whole-house humidifiers work like old-fashioned room humidifiers. They put moisture into the air, making harsh, dry air easier to breathe. Water mist instead of hot steam is used, keeping the entire home at the comfortable humidity level. A humidifier uses from 1.5 to 12 gallons of water per day, which is just enough to elevate the humidity to the comfort level but not enough to make a difference on your water bill. Because a humidifier is installed in the duct work, there's no need to tote one from room to room.
Many factors should be considered when selecting a humidifier. Size is important. A humidifier's capacity, the amount of moisture it can dispense, should match your family's needs. The capacity is measured in gallons per day of operation. Consider not only the purchase price of the unit, but also the operating and maintenance costs. Several models are less efficient than others, so choosing a model that is right for your home and budget is extremely important. Remember, regular maintenance is needed to keep your humidifier in top working condition.
Installing a humidifier is an easy job when also replacing a furnace. But a humidifier can also be fitted to a current system with minimal labor since it is installed in the duct work.
It is recommended that a home's humidity level should be between 30 and 50 percent. However, during extremely cold weather, a home loses humidity to the outside and the level can drop to as low as 10 percent. When humidity levels fall, it is ideal to have a humidifier on hand to make sure that the correct level of moisture is present in the air.
Controlling the amount of moisture in the air is needed for your family's health. when you don't have enough dampness in the air, it can cause dryness in the membranes of the nose, throat and bronchial tubes and may become the source of various health-related problems. Respiratory infections and repetitious attacks of winter colds could be the result of not enough humidity during the cold winter months. Relative humidity also has a tremendous effect on controlling the occurrence of airborne infections.
In addition to the health benefits, you need a humidifier to keep room environments comfortable. Whole-house humidifiers work like old-fashioned room humidifiers. They put moisture into the air, making harsh, dry air easier to breathe. Water mist instead of hot steam is used, keeping the entire home at the comfortable humidity level. A humidifier uses from 1.5 to 12 gallons of water per day, which is just enough to elevate the humidity to the comfort level but not enough to make a difference on your water bill. Because a humidifier is installed in the duct work, there's no need to tote one from room to room.
Many factors should be considered when selecting a humidifier. Size is important. A humidifier's capacity, the amount of moisture it can dispense, should match your family's needs. The capacity is measured in gallons per day of operation. Consider not only the purchase price of the unit, but also the operating and maintenance costs. Several models are less efficient than others, so choosing a model that is right for your home and budget is extremely important. Remember, regular maintenance is needed to keep your humidifier in top working condition.
Installing a humidifier is an easy job when also replacing a furnace. But a humidifier can also be fitted to a current system with minimal labor since it is installed in the duct work.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Pet Dander....One Source of Indoor Air Pollution
Pet Dander is one of those microscopic particles found in many homes that can cause allergic reactions and trigger asthma.
Pet dander is not animal hair. Rather, it is the tiny bits of skin flakes skin produced by every animal. Many people think they are allergic to cat or dog hair, but most are allergic to dander. Some people are severely allergic to pet dander, while others have less severe reactions.
Pet dander is found anywhere pets are found. All animals shed hair and skin and leave traces of it behind wherever they wander. Dander is often so tiny that it can become airborne and reach the tops of surfaces that pets never visit, so just because your pet does not sit on the couch, doesn't mean that dander can't be found on the couch. Pet dander can also stick to people’s hair, skin, and clothing that come in contact with animals, their bedding, or places animals have been. Dander has been called the "community" allergen, as it is passed along from person to person from their clothing.
What are "Biological" Pollutants...and Where do They Come From?
Biological Pollutants
Biological pollutants include bacteria, molds, mildew, viruses, animal dander and cat saliva, house dust, mites, cockroaches, and pollen . There are many sources of these pollutants. Pollens originate from plants. Viruses are passed on by people and animals and bacteria are carried by people, animals, and soil and plant debris. Household pets are sources of saliva and animal dander. The protein in urine from rats and mice is a potent allergen. When it dries, it can become airborne. Contaminated central air conditioning systems (HVAC) can become breeding grounds for mold, mildew, and other sources of biological contaminants and can then distribute these contaminants through the home.
By controlling the relative humidity level in a home, the growth of some sources of biological pollutants can be minimized. A relative humidity of 30-50 percent is generally recommended for homes. Standing water, water-damaged materials, or wet surfaces also serve as a breeding ground for molds, mildews, bacteria, and insects. House dust mites, the source of one of the most powerful biological allergens, grow in damp, warm environments.
Biological Pollutants...Sources
Common biological contaminants include mold, dust mites, pet dander (skin flakes), droppings and body parts from cockroaches, rodents and other pests or insects, viruses, and bacteria. Many of these biological contaminants are small enough to be inhaled.
Biological contaminants are, or are produced by, living things. Biological contaminants are often found in areas that provide food and moisture or water. For example, damp or wet areas such as cooling coils, humidifiers, condensate pans, or unvented bathrooms can be moldy. Draperies, bedding, carpet, and other areas where dust collects may accumulate biological contaminants.
Biological pollutants include bacteria, molds, mildew, viruses, animal dander and cat saliva, house dust, mites, cockroaches, and pollen . There are many sources of these pollutants. Pollens originate from plants. Viruses are passed on by people and animals and bacteria are carried by people, animals, and soil and plant debris. Household pets are sources of saliva and animal dander. The protein in urine from rats and mice is a potent allergen. When it dries, it can become airborne. Contaminated central air conditioning systems (HVAC) can become breeding grounds for mold, mildew, and other sources of biological contaminants and can then distribute these contaminants through the home.
By controlling the relative humidity level in a home, the growth of some sources of biological pollutants can be minimized. A relative humidity of 30-50 percent is generally recommended for homes. Standing water, water-damaged materials, or wet surfaces also serve as a breeding ground for molds, mildews, bacteria, and insects. House dust mites, the source of one of the most powerful biological allergens, grow in damp, warm environments.
Biological Pollutants...Sources
Common biological contaminants include mold, dust mites, pet dander (skin flakes), droppings and body parts from cockroaches, rodents and other pests or insects, viruses, and bacteria. Many of these biological contaminants are small enough to be inhaled.
Biological contaminants are, or are produced by, living things. Biological contaminants are often found in areas that provide food and moisture or water. For example, damp or wet areas such as cooling coils, humidifiers, condensate pans, or unvented bathrooms can be moldy. Draperies, bedding, carpet, and other areas where dust collects may accumulate biological contaminants.
Should You Use Bleach to Clean up Mold?
1. The key to mold control is moisture control.
2. Scrub mold off hard surfaces with detergent and water, and dry completely.
3. Fix plumbing leaks and other water problems as soon as possible. Dry all items completely.
4. Absorbent or porous materials, such as ceiling tiles and carpet, may have to be thrown away if they become moldy. Mold can grow on or fill in the empty spaces and crevices of porous materials, so the mold may be difficult or impossible to remove completely.
5. Avoid exposing yourself or others to mold
6. Do not paint or caulk moldy surfaces. Clean up the mold and dry the surfaces before painting. Paint applied over moldy surfaces is likely to peel.
7. If you are unsure about how to clean an item, or if the item is expensive or of sentimental value, you may wish to consult a specialist. Specialists in furniture repair, restoration, painting, art restoration and conservation, carpet and rug cleaning, water damage, and fire or water restoration are commonly listed in phone books. Be sure to ask for and check references. Look for specialists who are affiliated with professional organizations.
Should I use bleach?
Biocides are substances that can destroy living organisms. The use of a chemical or biocide that kills organisms such as mold (chlorine bleach, for example) is not recommended as a routine practice during mold cleanup. There may be instances, however, when professional judgment may indicate its use (for example, when immune-compromised individuals are present). In most cases, it is not possible or desirable to sterilize an area; a background level of mold spores will remain - these spores will not grow if the moisture problem has been resolved. If you choose to use disinfectants or biocides, always ventilate the area and exhaust the air to the outdoors. Never mix chlorine bleach solution with other cleaning solutions or detergents that contain ammonia because toxic fumes could be produced.
Please note: Dead mold may still cause allergic reactions in some people, so it is not enough to simply kill the mold, it must also be removed.
For more information on mold, see our website at www.epa.gov/mold
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
2. Scrub mold off hard surfaces with detergent and water, and dry completely.
3. Fix plumbing leaks and other water problems as soon as possible. Dry all items completely.
4. Absorbent or porous materials, such as ceiling tiles and carpet, may have to be thrown away if they become moldy. Mold can grow on or fill in the empty spaces and crevices of porous materials, so the mold may be difficult or impossible to remove completely.
5. Avoid exposing yourself or others to mold
6. Do not paint or caulk moldy surfaces. Clean up the mold and dry the surfaces before painting. Paint applied over moldy surfaces is likely to peel.
7. If you are unsure about how to clean an item, or if the item is expensive or of sentimental value, you may wish to consult a specialist. Specialists in furniture repair, restoration, painting, art restoration and conservation, carpet and rug cleaning, water damage, and fire or water restoration are commonly listed in phone books. Be sure to ask for and check references. Look for specialists who are affiliated with professional organizations.
Should I use bleach?
Biocides are substances that can destroy living organisms. The use of a chemical or biocide that kills organisms such as mold (chlorine bleach, for example) is not recommended as a routine practice during mold cleanup. There may be instances, however, when professional judgment may indicate its use (for example, when immune-compromised individuals are present). In most cases, it is not possible or desirable to sterilize an area; a background level of mold spores will remain - these spores will not grow if the moisture problem has been resolved. If you choose to use disinfectants or biocides, always ventilate the area and exhaust the air to the outdoors. Never mix chlorine bleach solution with other cleaning solutions or detergents that contain ammonia because toxic fumes could be produced.
Please note: Dead mold may still cause allergic reactions in some people, so it is not enough to simply kill the mold, it must also be removed.
For more information on mold, see our website at www.epa.gov/mold
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
Lead: Facts and Health Concerns
Facts about Lead
FACT: Lead exposure can harm young children and babies even before they are born.
FACT: Even children who seem healthy can have high levels of lead in their bodies.
FACT: You can get lead in your body by breathing or swallowing lead dust, or by eating soil or paint chips containing lead.
FACT: You have many options for reducing lead hazards. In most cases, lead-based paint that is in good condition is not a hazard.
FACT: Removing lead-based paint improperly can increase the danger to your family.
If you think your home might have lead hazards, read on to learn about lead and some simple steps to protect your family. All About Lead
Health effects of lead
Childhood lead poisoning remains a major environmental health problem in the United States.
* People can get lead in their body if they:
o Put their hands or other objects covered with lead dust in their mouths.
o Eat paint chips or soil that contains lead.
o Breathe in lead dust, especially during renovations that disturb painted surfaces.
* Lead is more dangerous to children because:
o Babies and young children often put their hands and other objects in their mouths. These objects can have lead dust on them.
o Children's growing bodies absorb more lead.
o Children's brains and nervous systems are more sensitive to the damaging effects of lead.
* If not detected early, children with high levels of lead in their bodies can suffer from:
o Damage to the brain and nervous system
o Behavior and learning problems, such as hyperactivity
o Slowed growth
o Hearing problems
o Headaches
* Lead is also harmful to adults. Adults can suffer from:
o Reproductive problems (in both men and women)
o High blood pressure and hypertension
o Nerve disorders
o Memory and concentration problems
o Muscle and joint pain
Source: EPA
FACT: Lead exposure can harm young children and babies even before they are born.
FACT: Even children who seem healthy can have high levels of lead in their bodies.
FACT: You can get lead in your body by breathing or swallowing lead dust, or by eating soil or paint chips containing lead.
FACT: You have many options for reducing lead hazards. In most cases, lead-based paint that is in good condition is not a hazard.
FACT: Removing lead-based paint improperly can increase the danger to your family.
If you think your home might have lead hazards, read on to learn about lead and some simple steps to protect your family. All About Lead
Health effects of lead
Childhood lead poisoning remains a major environmental health problem in the United States.
* People can get lead in their body if they:
o Put their hands or other objects covered with lead dust in their mouths.
o Eat paint chips or soil that contains lead.
o Breathe in lead dust, especially during renovations that disturb painted surfaces.
* Lead is more dangerous to children because:
o Babies and young children often put their hands and other objects in their mouths. These objects can have lead dust on them.
o Children's growing bodies absorb more lead.
o Children's brains and nervous systems are more sensitive to the damaging effects of lead.
* If not detected early, children with high levels of lead in their bodies can suffer from:
o Damage to the brain and nervous system
o Behavior and learning problems, such as hyperactivity
o Slowed growth
o Hearing problems
o Headaches
* Lead is also harmful to adults. Adults can suffer from:
o Reproductive problems (in both men and women)
o High blood pressure and hypertension
o Nerve disorders
o Memory and concentration problems
o Muscle and joint pain
Source: EPA
Is Exposure to Mold Dangerous?
Besides causing structural damage to your home, molds can also adversely affect your health. You can be exposed to mold by touching moldy materials, eating infected foods, and breathing in microscopic mold spores in the air. You can inhale millions of spores within a couple of minutes without even knowing it. Mold allergy symptoms may include skin rash, runny nose, irritated eyes, cough, congestion, and aggravation of asthma.
According to a 2005 study, exposure to mold in damp homes can double the risk of asthma development in children. A 1999 Mayo Clinic study found that allergic fungal sinusitis (AFS) was diagnosed in 93% of cases of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), a condition that affects an estimated 37 million Americans.
Most health problems caused by molds are related to allergic reactions. Nevertheless, molds can also infect your body, colonize and grow in asthmatic mucus within your lungs. the result is a serious lung disease similar to pneumonia. People with chronic lung diseases and weakened immune systems are more prone to fungal pulmonary infections.
Which kinds of mold are allergenic?
Not all molds are allergenic. Just like pollen, certain mold spores are allergenic because they are small enough to float in the air and elude the defense mechanisms of your respiratory system. The most common allergenic, indoor molds include Alternaria, Aspergillus, Chaetomium, Cladosporium, Fusarium, Mucor, Penicillium, and Stachybotrys.
According to a 2005 study, exposure to mold in damp homes can double the risk of asthma development in children. A 1999 Mayo Clinic study found that allergic fungal sinusitis (AFS) was diagnosed in 93% of cases of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), a condition that affects an estimated 37 million Americans.
Most health problems caused by molds are related to allergic reactions. Nevertheless, molds can also infect your body, colonize and grow in asthmatic mucus within your lungs. the result is a serious lung disease similar to pneumonia. People with chronic lung diseases and weakened immune systems are more prone to fungal pulmonary infections.
Which kinds of mold are allergenic?
Not all molds are allergenic. Just like pollen, certain mold spores are allergenic because they are small enough to float in the air and elude the defense mechanisms of your respiratory system. The most common allergenic, indoor molds include Alternaria, Aspergillus, Chaetomium, Cladosporium, Fusarium, Mucor, Penicillium, and Stachybotrys.
What is Mold...and Where does it Grow?
What is mold?
Molds are microscopic fungi, related to mushrooms, yeast, and mildew—and they can be found everywhere. Fungi use enzymes to digest food and reproductive cells called spores to reproduce. Molds play a vital part in the decomposition of leaves, wood, and other dead plant matter. Mold is used in the making of bleu cheese, and mold is the start-up source of penicillin, one of the earliest and most widely used naturally-occurring antibiotics. Unfortunately, mold is also one of the most common allergens on earth.
Where does mold grow?
Mold spores need moisture to grow. Molds can grow on wood, ceilings, wallpaper, paint, carpet, sheet rock, and insulation, and these fungi use their powerful enzymes to dissolve home materials just like they dissolve decaying plant matter. An area with high humidity sets the onset for extreme mold growth and thereby poses a risk to your health. Kitchens, bathrooms, garages, basements, and crawlspaces are notorious for mold growth. If any part of your home has experienced water damage, then you'll certainly will find mold there. The EPA estimates that one-third to one-half of all U.S. buildings have environments damp enough for the growing of mold. Although indoor humidity is normally lower in the winter time, indoor mold allergy may be more dominant during the winter in some homes due to tight, energy-efficient seals. Molds grow everywhere outdoors as well, and depending on their location, many people suffer from seasonal mold allergies.
Molds are microscopic fungi, related to mushrooms, yeast, and mildew—and they can be found everywhere. Fungi use enzymes to digest food and reproductive cells called spores to reproduce. Molds play a vital part in the decomposition of leaves, wood, and other dead plant matter. Mold is used in the making of bleu cheese, and mold is the start-up source of penicillin, one of the earliest and most widely used naturally-occurring antibiotics. Unfortunately, mold is also one of the most common allergens on earth.
Where does mold grow?
Mold spores need moisture to grow. Molds can grow on wood, ceilings, wallpaper, paint, carpet, sheet rock, and insulation, and these fungi use their powerful enzymes to dissolve home materials just like they dissolve decaying plant matter. An area with high humidity sets the onset for extreme mold growth and thereby poses a risk to your health. Kitchens, bathrooms, garages, basements, and crawlspaces are notorious for mold growth. If any part of your home has experienced water damage, then you'll certainly will find mold there. The EPA estimates that one-third to one-half of all U.S. buildings have environments damp enough for the growing of mold. Although indoor humidity is normally lower in the winter time, indoor mold allergy may be more dominant during the winter in some homes due to tight, energy-efficient seals. Molds grow everywhere outdoors as well, and depending on their location, many people suffer from seasonal mold allergies.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Does Indoor Air Quality Affect Your Health?
Indoor air quality is good when it is odor and dust free, has adequate air movement and has a comfortable temperature and humidity. When indoor air quality (IAQ) is poor, most health-related complaints may mimic cold or flu-like symptoms such as headaches, sinus problems, nausea, fatigue or irritation of the eyes, nose or throat.
Potential sources of contaminants in office buildings include cleaning supplies, pesticides, new building materials, furnishings, dusts, cosmetics, molds, mildew and human by-products such as carbon dioxide, dander, perspiration and food or garbage not disposed of in an appropriate and frequent manner. Almost all of these are present in a building environment to some degree and only become magnified when concentrations become excessive.
Poor indoor air quality often occurs when ventilation is inadequate to keep contaminant concentrations at acceptable levels. The heating, ventilation, and air condition system should not only control contaminants, but must also provide a comfortable environment. The perception of unmoving or stale air, odor, draftiness or exorbitant temperature and humidity can lead to discomfort and the beginning of an indoor air quality complaint.
Indoor Air Quality... an Asthma Epidemic?
Asthma cases have more than doubled since 1976. One in 9 children have asthma. Death rates due to asthma have tripled, increased five-fold in kids ages 5-9. Doctor visits related to asthma are continuing to increase at an alarming rate.
Horrible...alarming news...despite all the advances in medicine! Even though there have been gigantic advances in asthma medications, you still need to be aware of the various side effects.
You may ask yourself if indoor air allergens and contaminants are the main causes. These health changes (for the worse) in the population's defense to asthma, cannot be a result of genetic or bodily causes. Your genetic composition could never change so quickly.
Therefore, it must be the environment in which you live that must have changed for the worse. There is plenty of evidence that tells us it has. In fact, it is airborne pollutants and elements that generally cause asthma attacks and other respiratory problems.
Most people believe it is the air outdoors that presents us, especially those with allergy or asthma sensitivities with the greatest risk. Yet, it is actually the air inside our homes, schools, and other buildings that is most harmful.
Indoor air is much more harmful than outdoor air and verifiable facts prove it. According to the American College of Allergies, 50% of all illness is aggravated or caused by polluted indoor air. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) themselves declare that indoor air is anywhere from 2 to 10 times more hazardous than outdoor air. The EPA also warns us that the indoor air quality epidemic is the nation's number one environmental health problem.
Today's homes and buildings are built air-tight, with energy-efficiency in mind, as a result of the energy crisis of the 1970s. Their air-tight construction keep airborne pollutants trapped inside, and nature's air-cleansing agents outside. Is it any wonder that statistics for asthma problems began rising sharply around the same time that homes and buildings began to be built this way? In fact, a recent study found that the allergen level in super-insulated homes is 200% higher than it is in ordinary homes. According to Scientific America, a baby crawling on the floor inhales the equivalent of 4 cigarettes a day, as a result of the outgassing of carpets, molds, mildews, fungi, and dust mites.
Most people spend well over 90% of their time inside. Therefore, indoor air is going to impact your health far more than outdoor air.
Still believe you are not affected by the indoor air quality epidemic? Virtually everyone is affected, especially asthmatics and others who are particularly sensitive to allergens and contaminants in the air. No home or building is immune to the indoor air quality epidemic.
According to the EPA, 6 out of 10 homes and buildings are "sick", meaning they are hazardous to your health to occupy as a result of airborne pollutants. Even the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) very own headquarters, constructed a few years ago, was determined to be "sick". Many EPA employees could not work inside the building without becoming sick. If the headquarters of the EPA can fall victim to the indoor air quality epidemic, the very government agency that is charged with finding solutions to this problem, then any home or building can be afflicted. In fact, every home and building is affected by the indoor air quality epidemic to various degrees, regardless of how clean it may seem. Every home is filled with prime sources that contribute to mass quantities of airborne allergens and contaminants.
For example, even though your home looks really clean, you should question yourself how it got to be this way. Did you use toxic aerosols, floor and/or furniture polish, bleach, ammonia, bathroom cleaners, etc.? If so, be advised that these products emit harmful chemical vapors into the air.
The Sick Building Syndrome
Most homes or buildings are carpeted, painted, with chemically-treated furnishings. there is dust, insects, moist or damp stuff, food, and people. People? Yes, humans shed more than just about any other animal, but our skin flakes are small enough to float in the air, and are consequently inhaled by anyone who enters a populated room.
For a graphic example, picture a floating ray of sunshine, coming through your window. About 80% of what you see floating in this ray of sunshine is dead human skin! There are additional sources of airborne pollutants that you may bring indoors, such as cigarette smoke and pet dander. Even if you eliminate or prohibit a certain source of indoor air pollution from your home, such as pets, you may still be affected.
To cite an example... a recent study conducted in Philadelphia tested a random sample of homes for the number one allergy trigger: cat dander. Out of all the homes tested, 100% were found to contain cat dander, despite the fact that many of these homes did not have a cat.
Horrible...alarming news...despite all the advances in medicine! Even though there have been gigantic advances in asthma medications, you still need to be aware of the various side effects.
You may ask yourself if indoor air allergens and contaminants are the main causes. These health changes (for the worse) in the population's defense to asthma, cannot be a result of genetic or bodily causes. Your genetic composition could never change so quickly.
Therefore, it must be the environment in which you live that must have changed for the worse. There is plenty of evidence that tells us it has. In fact, it is airborne pollutants and elements that generally cause asthma attacks and other respiratory problems.
Most people believe it is the air outdoors that presents us, especially those with allergy or asthma sensitivities with the greatest risk. Yet, it is actually the air inside our homes, schools, and other buildings that is most harmful.
Indoor air is much more harmful than outdoor air and verifiable facts prove it. According to the American College of Allergies, 50% of all illness is aggravated or caused by polluted indoor air. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) themselves declare that indoor air is anywhere from 2 to 10 times more hazardous than outdoor air. The EPA also warns us that the indoor air quality epidemic is the nation's number one environmental health problem.
Today's homes and buildings are built air-tight, with energy-efficiency in mind, as a result of the energy crisis of the 1970s. Their air-tight construction keep airborne pollutants trapped inside, and nature's air-cleansing agents outside. Is it any wonder that statistics for asthma problems began rising sharply around the same time that homes and buildings began to be built this way? In fact, a recent study found that the allergen level in super-insulated homes is 200% higher than it is in ordinary homes. According to Scientific America, a baby crawling on the floor inhales the equivalent of 4 cigarettes a day, as a result of the outgassing of carpets, molds, mildews, fungi, and dust mites.
Most people spend well over 90% of their time inside. Therefore, indoor air is going to impact your health far more than outdoor air.
Still believe you are not affected by the indoor air quality epidemic? Virtually everyone is affected, especially asthmatics and others who are particularly sensitive to allergens and contaminants in the air. No home or building is immune to the indoor air quality epidemic.
According to the EPA, 6 out of 10 homes and buildings are "sick", meaning they are hazardous to your health to occupy as a result of airborne pollutants. Even the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) very own headquarters, constructed a few years ago, was determined to be "sick". Many EPA employees could not work inside the building without becoming sick. If the headquarters of the EPA can fall victim to the indoor air quality epidemic, the very government agency that is charged with finding solutions to this problem, then any home or building can be afflicted. In fact, every home and building is affected by the indoor air quality epidemic to various degrees, regardless of how clean it may seem. Every home is filled with prime sources that contribute to mass quantities of airborne allergens and contaminants.
For example, even though your home looks really clean, you should question yourself how it got to be this way. Did you use toxic aerosols, floor and/or furniture polish, bleach, ammonia, bathroom cleaners, etc.? If so, be advised that these products emit harmful chemical vapors into the air.
The Sick Building Syndrome
Most homes or buildings are carpeted, painted, with chemically-treated furnishings. there is dust, insects, moist or damp stuff, food, and people. People? Yes, humans shed more than just about any other animal, but our skin flakes are small enough to float in the air, and are consequently inhaled by anyone who enters a populated room.
For a graphic example, picture a floating ray of sunshine, coming through your window. About 80% of what you see floating in this ray of sunshine is dead human skin! There are additional sources of airborne pollutants that you may bring indoors, such as cigarette smoke and pet dander. Even if you eliminate or prohibit a certain source of indoor air pollution from your home, such as pets, you may still be affected.
To cite an example... a recent study conducted in Philadelphia tested a random sample of homes for the number one allergy trigger: cat dander. Out of all the homes tested, 100% were found to contain cat dander, despite the fact that many of these homes did not have a cat.
Cat Allergies What To Do If You Are Allergic To Your Cat
Are you a cat owner who suspects that you may be allergic to pets? If you do have a cat allergy, here are some tips.
One of the first things that you will want to do if you suspect that you are suffering, is to examine your symptoms. Do you find yourself sneezing, with a runny nose, with nasal congestion, or postnasal drip when you are around your cat? Do you sometimes develop a skin rash after close contact, or do you find it difficult to breath without wheezing? If that is the case, you may also have a cat allergy. If that is the case, an appointment with a health care provider is recommended.. A doctor can not only prescribe you medication, but may be able to help you determine whether or not you truly have a pet allergy.
As for how you can seek relief, the best way is to remove your cat from your home. Unfortunately, this isn't so easy for many cat owners to do. If you cannot find a good home for your cat , like with a trusted friend or family member, you do not need to worry. There are still a number of steps that you can take to seek relief.
Not cuddling with your cat is a great way to reduce you symptoms . Close contact with a cat is one of the many ways that skin rashes, like those that resemble an eczema outbreak, develop. As hard as it can be to love and appreciate your animals from afar, you may need to do so, especially if your allergy symptoms are severe.
In addition to not cuddling with your cat, it is also advised that you keep them off your furniture. This includes your beds, reclining chairs, or couches. This is particularly important if you lie down or nap on your living room furniture. Covers are a nice alternative. Should you choose to use cloth covers, be sure to wash them every few days or whenever you notice a large accumulation of cat hair.
Another tip involves keep your cat out of your bedroom. Keep your cat off your bed. This can help you sleep better at night. But, just keeping your cat out of your room in general is the best approach. This is likely to result in relief, as the bedroom is one of the most common rooms in the home that we use. Therefore, it is where you want to seek relief the most.
Vacuuming as much as possible is another great way to limit the number allergy symptoms that you may have due to your pet. Vacuuming can help to pick up some of the pet hair and pet dander that may be in your home. Vacuum cleaners that use HEPA filters come highly rated and recommended. There are now also a number of vacuum cleaners that are marketed towards pet owners. You may want to give these types of vacuum cleaners a close look. An air purifier can also be used and should be used if you are allergic to your cat. All air purifiers remove potentially harmful particles from the air. This includes pet dander. If you have a cat allergy, the removal of pet dander from the air can be a great source of relief. You can research and find air purifiers that are marketed towards those who suffer form allergies online. As with vacuum cleaners, air purifiers that use HEPA technology, often produce the best results.
Paints and Solvents.....Recognizing these Pollutants as Health Concerns
Be sure to read the warning label!
In order for you to reduce the risk to your health, select the least toxic product available for the job.
Least Toxic: Water based (latex). Check that mercury is not included as an additive to prevent mildew.
Moderately Toxic: Many of these ingredients are found in spray paints, paint removers and lacquers. All are highly flammable. methyl alcohol acetone isopropyl alcohol ethyl alcohol ethyl acetate methyl ethyl ketone.
Most Toxic: The following are known as aromatic or chlorinated hydrocarbons. They can be absorbed through the skin and therefore enter the bloodstream more easily than through inhalation only.
Learn to recognize the warning signs of exposure to organic solvents so that you don’t become a victim of poisoning. Strong effects that might occur during or immediately after you've been exposed to the chemical might include: irritability, nervousness, depression, irregular heartbeat, weakness, skin redness, watery eyes, nausea, headaches, or itching. Residual or long-term effects from frequent or prolonged exposure to organic solvents have not been thoroughly researched. Increased risk from exposure may cause permanent damage to liver, kidneys, bone marrow, and central nervous system.
Reading "WARNING" labels on Hazardous Chemical Containers
To reduce the risk to your health, select the least toxic product available for the job.
Least Toxic: Water based (latex). Check that mercury is not included as an additive to prevent mildew.
Moderately Toxic: Many of these ingredients are found in spray paints, paint removers and lacquers. All are highly flammable. methyl alcohol acetone isopropyl alcohol ethyl alcohol ethyl acetate methyl ethyl ketone.
Most Toxic: The following are known as aromatic or chlorinated hydrocarbons. They can be absorbed through the skin and therefore enter the bloodstream more easily than through inhalation only.
Benzene: a carcinogen which causes aplastic anemia (damaged bone marrow), and leukemia, and a probable tetatogen (causes birth defects).
Toluene: a probable mutagen (causes inherited changes in gene structure) and teratogen.
Xylene: a probable teratogen.
Methylene Chloride (dichloromethane): a probable carcinogen. Inhalation of vapors increases carbon monoxide levels in blood, reducing oxygen supply to vital organs. Other potential effects include damage to central nervous system or skin burns. It decompresses in the presence of flame or heat into highly toxic phosgene gas.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Indoor Air and Your Health
You may experience health effects from indoor air pollutants soon after exposure or, even years later.
Immed
iate effects may show up after being exposed initially...or after repeated exposures. These include irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Such immediate effects are usually short-term and treatable. Sometimes the treatment is simply eliminating the person's exposure to the source of the pollution, if it can be identified. Symptoms of some diseases, including asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and humidifier fever, may also show up soon after exposure to some indoor air pollutants.The likelihood of immediate reactions to indoor air pollutants depends on several factors. Age and preexisting medical conditions are two important influences. In other cases, whether a person reacts to a pollutant depends on individual sensitivity, which varies tremendously from person to person. Some people can become sensitized to biological pollutants after repeated exposures, and it appears that some people can become sensitized to chemical pollutants as well.
Certain immediate effects are similar to those from colds or other viral diseases, so it is often difficult to determine if the symptoms are a result of exposure to indoor air pollution. For this reason, it is important to pay attention to the time and place the symptoms occur. If the symptoms fade or go away when a person is away from the home and return when the person returns, an effort should be made to identify indoor air sources that may be possible causes. Some effects may be made worse by an inadequate supply of outdoor air or from the heating, cooling, or humidity conditions prevalent in the home.
Other health effects may show up either years after exposure has occurred or only after long or repeated periods of exposure. These effects, which include some respiratory diseases, heart disease, and cancer, can be severely debilitating or fatal. It is prudent to try to improve the indoor air quality in your home even if symptoms are not noticeable.
While pollutants commonly found in indoor air are responsible for many harmful effects, there is considerable uncertainty about what concentrations or periods of exposure are necessary to produce specific health problems. People also react very differently to exposure to indoor air pollutants. Further research is needed to better understand which health effects occur after exposure to the average pollutant concentrations found in homes and which occur from the higher concentrations that occur for short periods of time.
Formaldehyde FAQ
Formaldehyde is a chemical that is released into the air as a pungent gas. It has a number of useful properties. It's a good preservative and makes an excellent adhesive. Therefore, it is used widely in the building and furnishings industries. It is also found in small amounts in some textiles as an anti-wrinkle agent.
What are the major sources of formaldehyde?
Particle board is the major contributor of formaldehyde to the home environment. The culprit is the adhesive, urea formaldehyde, which can break down, releasing the formaldehyde. Phenol formaldehyde (used in exterior panels) does not present problems. Some particleboard is now manufactured with reduced formaldehyde.
Other sources include interior plywood, veneered or laminated furniture and cabinets, some professionally applied furniture and floor finishes, paneling, permanent press fabrics (some drapes), combustion products and cosmetics.
What can I do to reduce formaldehyde problems?
Formaldehyde cannot penetrate plastic laminate and is at least partly blocked by coatings. Varnishes and special formaldehyde sealants are also available. Apply these coatings to all exposed edges and surfaces, such as the undersides of countertops, cabinet interiors and drawers.
Increase ventilation, particularly after bringing new sources of formaldehyde into the home. When remodeling and in new construction, select low formaldehyde materials. High humidity and elevated temperatures cause formaldehyde release, so you might want to control humidity through air conditioning and dehumidifiers.
Why should I be concerned about formaldehyde?
It is a strong irritant that causes watery eyes and in low doses, causes burning sensations in the eyes, nose and throat. Wheezing and coughing, fatigue, skin rashes, headaches, loss of coordination and nausea are other symptoms. Larger doses can cause asthma attacks as well as damage to the liver, kidneys and the central nervous system. Some people are highly sensitive and react to formaldehyde concentrations that don't bother most people.
Formaldehyde has been shown to cause cancer in laboratory animals, but there is limited evidence that it causes cancer in humans.
How can I detect whether my home has significant concentrations of formaldehyde?
You may be able to detect it by its odor. Also, environmental testing firms, listed in the Yellow Pages of the phone directory, should be able to test for formaldehyde levels. Since such tests are costly, you should learn whether your home has possible sources of formaldehyde. Also, do-it-yourself test kits are available, but there is some question about their accuracy.
What's the Second Leading Cause of Lung Cancer in the US?
It kills 20,000 people a year, and it's colorless and odorless—what is it?
Smoking rightfully takes the spotlight as the most menacing cause of lung cancer. Roughly 160,000 Americans die because of it annually. But there's another under-publicized threat that also tragically contributes to the lung cancer death toll.
It's radon.....a naturally occurring colorless, odorless gas. It's responsible for 20,000 deaths every year, according to the EPA. It's harder to hate radon... There are no big tobacco companies behind it, and no addictive product that creates it. In fact, radon can be found in some hot springs and spring water naturally. And the worst part is that the only way to tell if radon's a problem in your home is to specifically have it tested with home test kit or by hiring a specialist.
Doing radon tests can reveal whether your home has abnormally high levels, which is important because your house is the primary place where the gas collects. But have no fear. There are proven methods of reducing radon levels in your home. Just check in with the EPA, which has a reliable list of radon resources, and contacts to agencies that can test or fix your home.
Source: http://www.epa.gov/radon/
Air Cleaners.... How They Aid in Indoor Air Quality
There are all kinds of types, shapes and sizes of air cleaners available to you. They range from relatively inexpensive table-top models to sophisticated and expensive whole-house systems. Some air cleaners are highly effective at particle removal, while others, including most table-top models, are much less effective. Most air cleaners do not remove gaseous pollutants.
The effectiveness of an air cleaner depends on how well it collects pollutants from indoor air (expressed as a percentage efficiency rate) and how much air it draws through the cleaning or filtering element (expressed in cubic feet per minute). A very efficient collector with a low air-circulation rate will not be effective, nor will a cleaner with a high air-circulation rate but a less efficient collector. The long-term performance of any air cleaner depends on maintaining it according to the manufacturer's directions.
Another important factor you should know in determining the effectiveness of an air cleaner is the strength of the pollutant source. Table-top air cleaners, in particular, may not remove noticeable amounts of pollutants from strong nearby sources. If you are sensitive to particular indoor pollutant sources, you may find that air cleaners are helpful only in conjunction with your diligent efforts in removing these pollutants.
Over the past few years, there has been some advertising and talk suggesting that houseplants have been shown to reduce levels of some chemicals in laboratory experiments. There is currently no evidence. However, a reasonable number of houseplants remove significant quantities of pollutants in homes and offices. By the way, indoor houseplants should never be over-watered because extremely damp soil may promote the growth of microorganisms which can affect allergic individuals.
At present, the EPA does not recommend using air cleaners to reduce levels of radon and its decay products. The effectiveness of these machines is uncertain because they only partially remove the radon decay products and do not reduce the amount of radon entering your home. The EPA plans to do additional research on whether air cleaners are, or could become, a reliable means of reducing the health risk from radon.
Are These Harmful Volatile Organic Compounds Lurking in Your House?
If you're interested in a healthy, green living space, you've probably heard the term volatile organic compounds, or VOCs for short. Chances are you know it's not a good term, but most people don't really know anything else about these contaminants. Let me fill you in...
VOCs are chemicals that are emitted from solids and liquids. All solids and liquids that include VOCs also include a carbon chain, as any substance containing carbon is called an "organic". While some carbon-containing products are relatively inert, or stable, others are highly volatile, meaning they can break down into different substances and chemicals quite easily. VOCs also tend to accumulate in indoor spaces, therefore concentrations in indoor air can be 2 to 5 times as concentrated as to outdoors.
There are literally thousands of VOCs, and they're present products like
1) paints, solvents and aerosol sprays
2) moth repellants
3) household cleaners and disinfectants
4) pesticides
5) nail polish
6) vinyl shower curtains
7) air fresheners
8) fuels and auto products
9) building materials
10) adhesives and glues
11) drycleaning chemicals, and
12) furniture and carpets.
The EPA estimates that the concentrations of indoor VOCs resulting from paint stripping can reach as high as 1,000 times the concentration of the outdoor levels. And that is just one product!
VOCs and Your Health
While some VOCs have short-term health effects, others can do serious long-term damage. Some VOCs, such as benzene are well-known carcinogens, while others are "suspected" carcinogens.
In the short-term, common health issues include eye, nose and throat irritation, headache, nausea and temporary loss of coordination. The long-term health effects are downright threatening. VOCs can damage your liver, kidneys and central nervous system (i.e. your brain and your spine).
Common symptoms of VOC exposure also include an allergic skin reaction, shortness of breath, vomiting, nosebleeds and fatigue.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Answering Questions You Might Have About Home "Air Cleaning"
Consider that every indoor space of your home is continuously bombarded with among other things:
* Foot traffic...stirring up dust and other particles that can trigger allergy or asthma attacks.
* Microorganisms...airborne from coughing and sneezing.
* Shedding of your skin... as a normal process of living.
* Particles coming in through your central heating and cooling (HVAC) systems. Since the level of air contaminants indoors is constantly changing, your air purifier needs to run continuously, or at least as long as possible, to get the optimum cleaning benefit.
If you work in an office, the potential for allergy particles in the air, and virus and bacteria transfer among occupants is very high. Many offices do not have daily vacuuming, nor do many vacuums have high- efficiency filters. The concentration of contaminants left continuously airborne in the office environment, is generally very high... potentially higher than in your home. You could in fact, "protect" your own air space by using an air cleaner at your work station or in your office.
By keeping the air purifier "on", you actually maintain a protected area, even in an office cubicle, something like a "bubble" around you, where contaminants have difficulty entering "your space", because you are continuously pushing clean air into your work space.
I've heard people talk about putting the air cleaner in their closets...or under their desk at work...and that's fine. Wherever it is placed, it will clean the air in that space, and keep it clean, if left running. People get the highest satisfaction from their air cleaner, when they focus its ability to clean to a particular designated ... single indoor space. Ask yourself where you spend most of your time...or maybe you have trouble sleeping at night, do you have allergy symptoms, or headaches, or an irritated throat at your work environment...etc. Pick an area of opportunity, and let the air purifier run...and do its job. One out of 3 people who start by purchasing one air cleaner, buy another one, because they discover, "it works" in a specific space, when they leave it on continuously.
The purpose of an air cleaner is to clean the entire volume of air in that space, and clean it again, and again. And, I recommend that you keep the fan speed on a "HIGH" setting. The higher the fan speed, the more air is drawn into the machine, and the more clean air is distributed per hour back into the space. Remember, indoor air pollutants are continuously entering the air, as I mentioned before. "LOW" speed might clean a room's air volume twice per hour, while "HIGH" speed on the same machine might clean it 6 times hourly. If you suffer from allergies or asthma, you will benefit most with the highest amount of clean air.
FYI...I recommend turning an air cleaner on "High" when you are out of a room for an extended period of time. When you go to sleep, based on the noise level of your machine, adjust it according to your preference related to the noise level. The allergy sufferer may require a higher cleaning level continuously, but..try it. Using the air cleaner in different ways, gives you more understanding of how it works, and what to expect. The fan speeds are options for you to use. Make your air cleaner more flexible for your needs, and the air cleaning applications.
Many people are buying machines based on quietness. I myself have thought that most air purifiers, running on a high setting, were quite "noisy"...and might keep me awake. Yes...mine did keep me awake...at first, but like me, you will get accustomed to the sort of "white noise" ...it will "soothe" you. You might have trouble sleeping without this "noise" after becoming used to it.
Noise is very personal - my suggestion is for you to operate the air cleaner for a reasonable time before making a decision on whether the noise level is a problem. Most importantly, give the air cleaner a chance, and try using it at different speeds. Then make your decision.
When discussing noise, it helps to know that noise is made up of "volume" and "pitch". For example, many people find higher volume noise levels less of an issue as long as they are in the range of a more neutral pitch.
How do you know whether a HEPA filter is really doing its job? When would you change the filter? Well, first of all, you must understand that an air purifier takes longer to give you benefits than...an air conditioner or a space heater, for example. The latter appliances reward you with almost "instant" benefits, whereas the air cleaner takes longer. With an air cleaner, you typically notice a decrease of allergic reactions or other symptoms over time ... generally within 2-3 days of continuous use. You may notice you have less house dust (a mite allergen home) or you sleep better. Observing the filter also indicates the air cleaner is working, for the filter turns darker in color as contaminants build up.
Most manufacturers have a reminder/device to signal when you should change the filters. Better quality products use pressure switches that actually measure the point when filters become clogged, and need changing. This pressure switch is usually for the main filter. Less expensive products use a simple timer to approximate when the filter might be clogged.
You can also feel where the air comes out. If it appears that no air is coming out, or the air is "puffing", the filter probably is clogged, and needs to be changed.
When comparing benefits between using a room air cleaner as opposed to a central HEPA or electrostatic system, notice that a central forced heat or air conditioning system generally has a filter that is not high-efficiency, and is not very dense. So, only larger particles may be captured. Larger particles are seldom the issue for respiratory problems. It is the smaller ones that can get into your lungs, and cause reactions and trigger breathing attacks. I always recommend that you use at least a middle-grade efficiency filter in you central system (HVAC), to get some smaller particles. Central(Whole-House) systems do not clean rooms at a high level, because they do not set up a strong enough air current in the room to get all the air space "scrubbed", and then back though the central filter system. To have the best indoor air quality, use a good, middle-grade central filter, along with a high-efficiency room air cleaner for the spaces of greatest health concern.
According to the EPA, "Biological pollutants promote poor indoor air quality and may be a major cause in days lost from work or school, and of doctor and hospital visits. Biological pollutants can travel through the air and are often invisible". Under Health Effects of Biological Pollutants, the EPA states, "except for the spread of infections indoors, allergic reactions may be the most common health problem with indoor air quality in homes. Allergic reactions can range from mildly uncomfortable to life threatening, as in a severe asthma "attack". I believe the IQ Air Health Pro Plus Air Cleaner gives you the performance edge of it's advanced technology to provide increased protection for you and all your indoor spaces.
In my opinion, indoor "air cleaning" is about you...having control over the air quality of any indoor space you occupy... home, office or school. It is a choice you can make, and you can control the indoor air quality. Fortunately, the technology is now available in a variety of patented, uniquely designed room air cleaners to provide excellent performance for cleaning the air in all your indoor spaces. I believe IQ Air Air Purifiers achieve improved personal comfort, a more protected air environment, and safer, healthier indoor spaces.
Friday, September 17, 2010
7 Unsuspecting Air Pollutants in Your Home
1.The Kitchen Stove
Did you know that your kitchen stove is the main contributor of excess nitrogen in your home? Yes!...when you're cooking, especially if it is a gas stove, your stove can bring you in contact with really unhealthy levels of nitrogen dioxide. Too much nitrogen dioxide is bad for the respiratory system, increasing the risk of asthma attacks and other respiratory illness. You can prevent this from happening by properly ventilating your stove. 2.Ozone-Generating Air Purifiers
We use air purifiers in our homes to purify the air but the fact of the matter is that they sometimes can do just the opposite. Purifiers that emit ozone, a harsh and respiratory system irritant and the main ingredient in smog, can cause you health problems and possibly health damage. Ozone, in excessive amounts, can scar lung tissue, bring on asthma attacks, cause you to have bouts of coughing and lead to permanent damage that could shorten your life. I recommend that you don't buy an air purifier that emits ozone. See EPA...for more on "ozone-generating machines.
3.Cockroaches
The droppings, body parts, and saliva of cockroaches can be asthma triggers. Certain proteins, called allergens, are found in cockroach feces and saliva and can bring on allergic reactions, or trigger asthma symptoms, in some people. Traditional pesticides can pollute our ground water, our eco-system as well as the air we inhale. Why not try and keep the house cleaner, making sure that no food is left out in the open , to attract bugs.
4. Laser Printers
Some type of laser printers used in offices and homes release tiny particles of toner-like material into the air that could pose a pulmonary health threat to office workers, if inhaled. These particles are minute enough to enter the lungs, causing damage equal to inhaled cigarette smoke. Instead, why not print less, or if you do have to print, ventilate the area.
5.Drapes
Dust mites are the number one reason for indoor allergies and asthma. Drapes attract dust mites. Dust mites are related to spiders and ticks but are microscopic, naked to the eye. An easy solution to eliminate, or even reduce dust mites, would be to install window blinds instead of drapes, as this switch would cut down on dust mites' habitat.
6.Incense
Burning incense emits airborne contaminants as well as benzene and carbon monoxide, two dangerous gases. Studies show a link between heavy exposure to incense smoke and cancer, asthma, and skin irritation. It's best either to stop totally stop burning incense, or make sure that you ventilate the room when you burn incense.
7.Spackling
If your spackling compound used for filling holes in walls has been stored around the house, it may contain asbestos, says the American Lung Association. You can find many home-building asbestos products are you home, including roofing and flooring materials, wall and pipe insulation, spackling compounds, cement, coating materials, heating equipment, and acoustic insulation. These products are a potential problem indoors only if the asbestos-containing material is disturbed and becomes airborne, or when it disintegrates with age. If your home was built before the mid-80's, it could contain asbestos. You can either hire professional asbestos abatement contractors to investigate or consider installing ¼-inch drywall over the existing ceiling. This is less expensive, but will require that the old ceiling be well sealed so as to avoid the risk that it will become friable in the future.
Did you know that your kitchen stove is the main contributor of excess nitrogen in your home? Yes!...when you're cooking, especially if it is a gas stove, your stove can bring you in contact with really unhealthy levels of nitrogen dioxide. Too much nitrogen dioxide is bad for the respiratory system, increasing the risk of asthma attacks and other respiratory illness. You can prevent this from happening by properly ventilating your stove. 2.Ozone-Generating Air Purifiers
We use air purifiers in our homes to purify the air but the fact of the matter is that they sometimes can do just the opposite. Purifiers that emit ozone, a harsh and respiratory system irritant and the main ingredient in smog, can cause you health problems and possibly health damage. Ozone, in excessive amounts, can scar lung tissue, bring on asthma attacks, cause you to have bouts of coughing and lead to permanent damage that could shorten your life. I recommend that you don't buy an air purifier that emits ozone. See EPA...for more on "ozone-generating machines.
3.Cockroaches
The droppings, body parts, and saliva of cockroaches can be asthma triggers. Certain proteins, called allergens, are found in cockroach feces and saliva and can bring on allergic reactions, or trigger asthma symptoms, in some people. Traditional pesticides can pollute our ground water, our eco-system as well as the air we inhale. Why not try and keep the house cleaner, making sure that no food is left out in the open , to attract bugs.
4. Laser Printers
Some type of laser printers used in offices and homes release tiny particles of toner-like material into the air that could pose a pulmonary health threat to office workers, if inhaled. These particles are minute enough to enter the lungs, causing damage equal to inhaled cigarette smoke. Instead, why not print less, or if you do have to print, ventilate the area.
5.Drapes
Dust mites are the number one reason for indoor allergies and asthma. Drapes attract dust mites. Dust mites are related to spiders and ticks but are microscopic, naked to the eye. An easy solution to eliminate, or even reduce dust mites, would be to install window blinds instead of drapes, as this switch would cut down on dust mites' habitat.
6.Incense
Burning incense emits airborne contaminants as well as benzene and carbon monoxide, two dangerous gases. Studies show a link between heavy exposure to incense smoke and cancer, asthma, and skin irritation. It's best either to stop totally stop burning incense, or make sure that you ventilate the room when you burn incense.
7.Spackling
If your spackling compound used for filling holes in walls has been stored around the house, it may contain asbestos, says the American Lung Association. You can find many home-building asbestos products are you home, including roofing and flooring materials, wall and pipe insulation, spackling compounds, cement, coating materials, heating equipment, and acoustic insulation. These products are a potential problem indoors only if the asbestos-containing material is disturbed and becomes airborne, or when it disintegrates with age. If your home was built before the mid-80's, it could contain asbestos. You can either hire professional asbestos abatement contractors to investigate or consider installing ¼-inch drywall over the existing ceiling. This is less expensive, but will require that the old ceiling be well sealed so as to avoid the risk that it will become friable in the future.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)