Overview

Provisions have always been made by environmental regulatory agencies to ensure that the quality of outdoor air is safe.  However, the general public spends most of its time indoors.  In recent years, an emphasis has been placed to address the importance on increasing knowledge of indoor air quality (IAQ) and how it affects residential and commercial occupants.  Whether it’s at school, work or home, exposure to hazardous indoor air pollutants impacts the efficiency with which people perform day-to-day tasks.

 

Special Considerations

The most important consideration should be given to the type of indoor ventilation system used to filter indoor air.  For most modern facilities, a Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning system is likely utilized for this purpose.  The purpose of the HVAC system is to provide climate control and proper air filtration.  Today, consideration is also given to the system’s energy efficiency.  Without proper ventilation and air filtration, levels of air contaminants may intensify by several factors indoors in relation to a similar exposure in ambient or outdoor air.

 

The range of compounds or substances that can be analyzed when performing an IAQ Assessment is vast.   These typically include temperature, relative humidity (RH), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), oxygen (O2), methane (CH4), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), volatile organic compounds (VOC) and particulate matter.  However, these can be specific to the facility’s needs or concerns.

 

Common IAQ Questions:

 

How do I make sure my HVAC system runs efficiently?

First, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines/recommendations for proper maintenance of your HVAC unit.  Change the filters in accordance to manufacturer guidelines, or sooner.  The frequency with which these are changed may depend on the type of filter being used.  These range from the inexpensive fiber-spun filters to High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters.  The latter have a longer life expectancy.  At any rate, look to replace your HVAC filters once a month to every four months, depending on the type of filter. 

 

Additionally, consider retaining the services of a professional to clean the air ducts and components of your HVAC system.  For further information visit the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) web site at:  www.nadca.com.

Is it reasonable to have an IAQ Assessment performed for a single-family residence?

IAQ assessments are primarily targeted at commercial and industrial facilities that employ the use of chemicals and/or equipment that emit hazardous vapors/gases.  In these situations, it is crucial that measures are taken to protect the employees and occupants of these facilities.  An IAQ Assessment will tell the facility owner if the employees/occupants are being exposed to elevated levels of indoor air pollutants.

 

In the case of single-family residences, unless conditions are similar to those of a commercial or industrial facility, there is no need to perform an IAQ Assessment.  Keep in mind that microbiological (mold) concerns are an IAQ issue, these are addressed separately.  If there is a concern of exposure to indoor air contaminants other than asbestos, lead or mold, an IAQ Assessment would be feasible.  Typical sources that may contribute to poor indoor air quality in your home are: proximity to industrial and vehicle emissions, pesticides, radon, underground waste storage leaks and volatile organic compounds.