Minimizing Particulate Matter Indoors

How clean is the air in your home? For many people in Greensboro, NC the answer may be surprising. Every breath you take indoors could be allowing potentially harmful particles into your body. To better understand this serious health issue, let’s take a closer look at why these tiny particles are dangerous.

Particulate Matter and Indoor Air Quality

In simple terms, particulate matter refers to any solid or liquid particles that become suspended in the air. This may include dust, dander, micro-organisms, smoke, combustion byproducts, and much more. Any particulate matter can have a detrimental effect on indoor air quality. However, the most concerning particulates are those with a diameter of 10 micrometers or less. That’s because these particles can be inhaled into the body, penetrate into the lungs, and even pass into the bloodstream. This may lead to a whole host of potentially serious health effects.

Air Treatment Solutions

One of the most effective ways to control particle pollution is by installing a high-quality air filtration system. An air cleaner or air purifier can actively remove particulates from the air circulating through your home. In fact, the best filtration devices can remove up to 99.98% of airborne particles. Another treatment option is ultraviolet light. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation kills or disables bacteria and other biological contaminants. Installing UV lights at key points in your HVAC system can keep you protected and minimize the threat from airborne particulates.

Improving Home Ventilation

Air quality is often a problem indoors because many homes simply don’t have adequate ventilation. This effectively traps particulates inside, where they accumulate and circulate around your home. Adding a ventilation system solves this problem. Well-designed ventilation creates a steady, measured flow of air that keeps your home refreshed and helps to remove airborne impurities.

Air quality is one area in which it’s important to remain proactive. Even if your home doesn’t currently present a health risk, minor air quality issues can quickly turn into serious problems. To learn more about how to keep your home protected, check out Total Heating & Cooling’s indoor air quality solutions or call (336) 739-4320.