Particulate Matter (PM)
The most common pollutants in your air are collected under the name “Particulate Matter (PM)”. This pollutant group is a mix of tiny solid particles and liquid droplets in your air. Pollutants such as dust, dirt, smoke, pollen, mold spores, and exhaust gases belong to this group.
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Based on the size of the pollutant particle we differentiate between PM10, PM2.5, and PM1 pollutants, from which PM1 is the smallest in size and can enter your lungs and bloodstream. These pollutants are found in extensive amounts in any household and they can cause irritated eyes and throat and in the long term, serious lung and heart issues as well.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a toxic gas commonly found in indoor environments. It is emitted from various sources, including the burning of natural gas, the application of paint, and the use of special glues for wallpaper. Additionally, formaldehyde can be present in several cosmetic products, such as hair sprays.
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Exposure to formaldehyde can have immediate and long-term health effects. In the short term, it can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, coughing, headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Prolonged exposure, however, poses more serious health risks, as formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and may contribute to the development of certain types of cancer.
Carbon dioxide
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is probably familiar to you already, as CO2 emission is a hot topic due to environmental pollution. Unfortunately, this gas is also polluting your own home by the simple fact that we breathe out CO2. It is also produced when any open flame is present, such as a stove, a candle, or a nice fireplace.
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It can significantly affect your ability to focus and makes you sleepy and tired. High levels of this gas can be deadly but even low levels do not let you perform your best.
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOC) is another group of pollutants that are present in your everyday life. This is a group of gases which can be emitted by things like painting, air fresheners, most of the cleaning products and several cosmetics, cooking, burning wood, smoking and so on.
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These gases might cause nose and throat discomfort, allergic skin reactions, nausea, shortness of breath and in the long term, they also damage the liver, kidney, and central nervous system. As this is a big group of pollutants, they have thousands of health effects that you probably want to avoid.
Viruses and Bacteria
Viruses and bacteria, while integral to our ecosystem, include harmful types that we must remove from our indoor air. These microorganisms can attach to particulate matter (PM) and spread throughout our homes, posing serious health risks.
Exposure to airborne viruses and bacteria can lead to various diseases, some of which can be severe or even fatal. Thus, it is crucial to eliminate these pathogens from our indoor environment as effectively and promptly as possible.
Pollen
Pollen, a natural component of our environment, can become a significant indoor air pollutant, especially for those with allergies. These tiny particles enter our homes through open windows, doors, and on our clothing, spreading throughout our living spaces.
Once inside, pollen can trigger allergic reactions, causing symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and respiratory issues. For individuals with severe allergies or asthma, exposure to pollen can be particularly problematic. Therefore, it is essential to effectively manage and reduce indoor pollen levels to maintain a healthy and comfortable living environment.
Dander and Pet Hair
Dander and pet hair are common indoor air pollutants that can affect the health and comfort of your home. Dander consists of tiny flecks of skin shed by pets like cats, dogs, and birds, while pet hair is the fur they shed. Both can easily become airborne and spread throughout your living spaces, settling on furniture, bedding, and other surfaces.
Exposure to dander and pet hair can lead to a variety of health issues, especially for individuals with allergies or asthma. Common symptoms include sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, and respiratory problems. In severe cases, exposure to these allergens can trigger asthma attacks, underscoring the importance of managing their presence in your home.