Indoor Air Quality and Your Health

Did you know that the quality of the air in your home is of vital importance, as impure air can lead to a host of health issues? The EPA actually lists indoor air pollution as a rampant problem today, and simply opening your windows may not be enough to alleviate the problem. In addition, during times of the year when the temperatures are either too hot or too cold to leave your windows open, your home is often shut up for months at a time. While your heating or cooling system brings in air from the outside, by the time it reaches your vents it is often contaminated with dust, mold spores, pet dander, bacteria and even viruses. Clearly, you need a solution to this common problem, as poor air quality can cause fatigue, allergies, breathing problems and even illness like respiratory infections (due to virus or bacteria). Fortunately, air purification offers a convenient answer.

• HEPA purifiers

HEPA purifiers come in a variety of shapes and sizes. HEPA purifiers only need to trap particles of a specific size and allow a certain amount of air to flow through to be classified as a true HEPA unit.

• HEPA purifiers with activated charcoal

HEPA purifiers that include activated charcoal are designed to trap odors as well, and activated charcoal that includes potassium iodide can absorb harmful Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) that may wreak havoc in your home.

• Ionizing purifiers

Ionizing purifiers work on a different principle, by charging particles in the air and then trapping these with metal plates that hold an opposite charge. They work well for allergens but are inadequate to reduce toxic VOCs within your home.

• Ozone purifiers

Ozone purifiers produce a low level of ozone that has been deemed safe, as ozone is actually a free radical. It is three molecules of oxygen bonded together, and it readily gives up the third molecule. How does this purify air? This free radical oxygen molecule easily binds to contaminants within the air – rendering them inert. However, there has been some concern that this free radical production could cause harm to people over a long period of time as well.

• UV Light purifiers

UV light purifiers work well to eradicate any bacteria, mold and viruses that are floating in your home's air. In fact, many units are designed to be installed directly upon the air intake of your HVAC system, and they harm the DNA of bacteria and viruses – making it impossible for them to reproduce. Keep in mind, that the strength of the UV purifiers is critical, as a low level light will deliver ineffective results.

With all of these different types of air purifiers available on the market, there is an option that is right for your specific needs. You must simply decide on the air purifier that will best fit your individual situation. However, even though purifiers are a great idea, your home still needs to be clean as well. And if you are in the New Bedford, Massachusetts area, you can hire The Maids of Southeastern Massachusetts for all of your housekeeping needs.