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Benefits of Investing in an EZ Breathe Dehumidifier

Posted by Andre & Erika Lacroix on

Now that we understand the EZ Breathe Dehumidifier’s features, let’s explore the numerous benefits it offers for homeowners:

Improved Indoor Air Quality:indoor-air-hazards-EZ Breathe-1

The EZ Breathe continuously circulates fresh air throughout your home, reducing the concentration of allergens, pollutants, and airborne contaminants.

Mold and Mildew Prevention:

By maintaining optimal humidity levels, the EZ Breathe prevents mold and mildew growth, protecting your home and your family’s health.

Reduced Allergies and Respiratory Issues:

Lower humidity levels can alleviate allergy symptoms and reduce the risk of respiratory problems caused by mold spores and dust mites.

Enhanced Comfort:

A balanced indoor humidity level ensures year-round comfort, making your home more enjoyable and conducive to relaxation.

Energy Savings:

The EZ Breathe’s energy-efficient operation can lead to reduced energy consumption and lower utility bills, contributing to long-term savings.

Peace of Mind:

With the EZ Breathe Dehumidifier, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your home is a healthier, more comfortable place to live.

Installation and Maintenance

Installing and maintaining the EZ Breathe Dehumidifier is straightforward, making it an even more attractive investment for homeowners. Here’s what you need to know:

Installation:

Professional installation is recommended for the EZ Breathe Dehumidifier, as it involves the integration of the system into your home’s existing ventilation. A certified technician will assess your home’s needs and install the unit accordingly.

Minimal Maintenance:

The EZ Breathe system requires minimal maintenance compared to traditional dehumidifiers. You won’t need to empty water buckets or frequently change filters. Occasional cleaning of the unit’s core is typically sufficient.

Longevity:

Benefits of Investing in an EZ Breathe Dehumidifier

With proper maintenance and care, the EZ Breathe Dehumidifier can provide years of reliable performance, ensuring ongoing humidity control and comfort in your home.

Investing in an EZ Breathe Dehumidifier for your home is a wise decision that offers numerous benefits. From improved indoor air quality and health to enhanced comfort and energy savings, the EZ Breathe system provides comprehensive humidity control while requiring minimal maintenance. It is a silent, energy-efficient, and hassle-free solution for homeowners seeking to create a healthier, more comfortable living environment for themselves and their families. Don’t wait until humidity-related issues arise; invest in an EZ Breathe Dehumidifier today to enjoy the long-term benefits it offers for your home.

National Indoor Air Quality Awareness Month

Posted by Andre & Erika Lacroix on

How to get better Indoor Air Quality in your home

By Andre Lacroix, Indoor Air Quality Expert; IAQA, BPI, ISAQ, NCHH, NEHA, BHA & AARST

national indoor air quality awareness monthWhile air pollution gets a lot of attention, the air inside homes may be more dangerous.

October is National Indoor Air Quality Awareness Month for good reason. This is the time of year we are typically spending even more of our time indoors. This is also the time of year many of us expereicnce a spike in allergy/asthma symptoms, increase in “colds” or sinus irritation and infections as well as more coughing and sneezing!

Don’t be so quick to blame all these health effects on the colder weather or seasonal allergies, maybe the cause is lurking INSIDE your home?

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), you’re likely to experience up to 100 times greater exposure to air pollutants indoors than outdoors.

Unfortunately, most people spend about 90 percent of their time indoors, even more so for our infants and elderly, being exposed to those potential sources of pollution that often lead to discomfort and illness.

That’s why ventilation is critical to a healthy indoor environment. People with asthma, allergies and other sensitivities breathe easier with clean air. Adequate ventilation can improve indoor air quality by removing airborne irritants, pollutants and lowering the likelihood of mold and mildew.

Only recently have home designs really taken into account the need for fresh air indoors. In older homes, windows and the rest of the home leaked so much air that mechanical ventilation wasn’t required. Also, in the days before most homes had central air conditioning, people more often opened their windows and doors for cooling and ventilation, allowing airflow through the house.

Most homes, even older ones, have some sort of mechanical spot ventilation fan, usually in the bathroom areas. Spot ventilation is the use of exhaust fans (such as kitchen, bath, or utility fans) that quickly remove moisture and pollutants from the area. Depending on your home, spot ventilation is usually part of an overall strategy of either natural ventilation or whole house ventilation.

Daily activities like showering and bathing introduce moisture into the air, so it’s important to have ventilation to manage humidity. Humidity – moisture in the air – can get out of control and cause poor indoor air quality that can lead to adverse health effects and damage to the home. Ventilation is also vital for fresh air in the house when a gas furnace operates to avoid any problems with carbon monoxide.

What can you do to make your Indoor Air Quality better?
It’s EZ – Mechanical Ventilation!

indoor-air-quality-cleveland-oh-ez-breathe-2Whole house mechanical ventilation maintains the
overall indoor air quality of the home by moving air continuously, compared to local exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms that remove high volume
of pollutants from rooms where they are created.

The amount of whole house mechanical ventilation required is determined using a formula based on the size of the building and the potential number of occupants, resulting in a desired cubic feet per minute of air movement.

Whole house mechanical ventilation can be accomplished using a single ventilation fan, air exchanger or other method; or use a combination of these to achieve the required airflow.

If you’re building a new high-performance home or updating an existing home, you will likely encounter the need for whole-house ventilation. Homes built to tighter standards require ventilation systems. That means creating a path to exhaust the stale, dirty air. You want to build tight and then ventilate right.

With a ventilation system, there’s a continuous flow of fresh air to reduce humidity, odors, particulates, VOCs and other potentially harmful substances in the air. Mechanical ventilation also provides a much more even temperature and comfort level throughout the home, improving the overall indoor air quality!

ez breathe ventilation

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Unveiling Indoor Air Pollutants Identifying and Mitigating Health Risks

Posted by Andre & Erika Lacroix on

Unveiling Indoor Air Pollutants Identifying and Mitigating Health Risks

Indoor air pollutants are substances that contaminate the air within buildings, negatively affecting the health and well-being of occupants. As individuals spend a significant amount of time indoors, understanding and addressing these pollutants is crucial. From household products to building materials, various sources contribute to indoor air pollution. In this article, we will explore common indoor air pollutants, their health risks, and strategies to mitigate their impact.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)indoor-air-pollutants-ez-breathe-1

VOCs are chemicals emitted as gases from a wide range of products, including paints, solvents, cleaning supplies, adhesives, and furniture. Long-term exposure to VOCs can lead to respiratory irritation, headaches, allergic reactions, and even more serious health issues. To minimize VOC exposure, opt for low-VOC or VOC-free products, ensure proper ventilation when using such products, and allow newly purchased items to off-gas in a well-ventilated area before bringing them indoors.

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is a colorless gas found in building materials, furniture, and household products. It is released over time, particularly from pressed wood products, carpets, and upholstery. Prolonged exposure to formaldehyde can cause respiratory problems, eye irritation, and allergic reactions. To reduce formaldehyde levels, choose low-formaldehyde or formaldehyde-free products, improve ventilation, and use air purifiers with activated carbon filters to trap and remove formaldehyde particles.

Particulate Matter

Particulate matter (PM) consists of tiny particles suspended in the air, including dust, pollen, pet dander, and combustion byproducts. Fine particles (PM2.5) can penetrate deep into the lungs, leading to respiratory issues, aggravated asthma, and cardiovascular problems. Regular cleaning, using high-efficiency air filters in HVAC systems, and minimizing the use of products that release particles can help reduce PM levels indoors.

Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew thrive in damp and poorly ventilated areas, such as bathrooms, basements, and kitchens. Inhalation or contact with mold spores can cause allergic reactions, and respiratory problems, and worsen existing conditions like asthma. To prevent mold growth, maintain low humidity levels (below 50%), fix any water leaks promptly, improve ventilation, and use dehumidifiers in moisture-prone areas.

Tobacco Smoke

Secondhand smoke from cigarettesindoor-air-pollutants-ez-breathe-2 or other tobacco products is a significant indoor air pollutant that poses serious health risks. Exposure to tobacco smoke increases the risk of respiratory infections, asthma, lung cancer, and other respiratory illnesses. The best approach to eliminate this pollutant is to prohibit smoking indoors entirely and designate smoking areas outdoors, away from windows and entrances.

Radon

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into buildings through cracks in the foundation. Prolonged exposure to radon can significantly increase the risk of lung cancer. Testing for radon is essential, and if elevated levels are detected, mitigation measures such as sealing cracks, improving ventilation, or installing a radon mitigation system should be implemented.

Biological Pollutants

Biological pollutants include bacteria, viruses, dust mites, pet dander, and pollen. These allergens can trigger respiratory allergies, worsen asthma symptoms, and lead to infections. Regular cleaning, maintaining proper humidity levels, using air purifiers with HEPA filters, and practicing good hygiene (such as regular handwashing and pet grooming) can help control and reduce biological pollutants.

Indoor air pollutants can significantly impact our health and well-being. By understanding the sources and risks of these pollutants, we can take proactive steps to mitigate their effects. Implementing.

Contact the Professionals at EZ Breathe Today! 866-822-7328

EZ BREATHE KEEP ITS - 8 TIPS

Healthy Home “Keep Its”

Posted by Andre & Erika Lacroix on

EZ Breathe Supports 6 of the 8 Healthy Home “Keep Its”

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1. Keep it Clean: Control the source of dust and contaminants, creating smooth and cleanable surfaces, reducing clutter, and using effective wet- cleaning methods. READ MORE

2. Keep it Dry: Prevent water from entering your home through leaks in roofing systems, rain water from entering the home due to poor drainage, and check your interior plumbing for any leaking. READ MORE

3. Keep it Pest-free: All pests look for food, water and shelter. Seal cracks and openings throughout the home; store food in pest-resistant containers. If needed, use sticky-traps and baits in closed containers, along with least toxic pesticides such as boric acid powder. READ MORE

4. Keep it Contaminant-free: Reduce lead-related hazards in pre-1978 homes by fixing deteriorated paint, and keeping floors and window areas clean using a wet-cleaning approach. Test your home for radon, a naturally occurring dangerous gas that enters homes through soil, crawlspaces, and foundation cracks. Install a radon removal system if levels above the EPA action-level are detected. READ MORE

5. Keep it Safe: Store poisons out of the reach of children and properly label. Secure loose rugs and keep children’s play areas free from hard or sharp surfaces. Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and keep fire extinguishers on hand.

6. Keep it Well-Ventilated: Ventilate bathrooms and kitchens and use whole house ventilation for supplying fresh air to reduce the concentration of contaminants in the home. READ MORE

7. Thermally Controlled: Houses that do not maintain adequate temperatures may place the safety of residents at increased risk from exposure to extreme cold or heat. READ MORE

8. Keep it Well-Maintained: Inspect, clean and repair your home routinely. Take care of minor repairs and problems before they become large repairs and problems.

My Rental Made Me Sick!

Posted by Andre & Erika Lacroix on

I think, in fact, my rental car did make me sick! And I am going to tell you why I know this to be true in order to help you avoid the same thing happening to you.

I was fortunate enough to be invited to a dear friend’s daughter’s wedding in Utah. I was so excited to witness what was sure to be a wonderful celebration uniting not only two people in love, but also the marriage of two incredible cultures steeped in rich tradition and two large, loving, supportive families. Kelsie and Laki (names are changed to protect their identities) come from two very different cultures. She from a large family very active in their Church of Latter-Day Saints community and he, from the Polynesian, Samoan culture. This was a wedding not to be missed held at a beautiful ranch in the mountains of Utah. I couldn’t wait!

I had to travel from my midwestern hometown to Salt Lake City, UT to attend the wedding. My travel day was gratefully uneventful – gotta appreciate that in these days of flight delays, ground stops, staffing shortages and other challenges to airline travel. I was feeling grateful that all went smoothly, arriving shortly before noon local time. I must be livin’ right, I thought!

Upon arrival in Salt Lake City, Utah I collected my rental car without incident, highlighting the few scratches I saw on the driver’s side door to the efficient rental car representative helping me load my luggage. He noted the scratches, and I was on my way.

When I got in the car, I noticed it had a bit of an odor, a fragrance or sorts, reminding me of cheap men’s cologne that lingers in the nostrils for hours. It brought me right back to 1993, Spring Break at Carlos and Charlies where co-eds famously drank too much tequila, danced on a too crowded dance floor and doused themselves with too much cheap cologne! I had assumed that the odor may have been left over from whomever cleaned the vehicle and the smell would dissipate once I started the car, opened windows and got the air moving.

I was dead wrong about that. The smell never went away. Even getting stronger when I turned up the fan as I desperately tried to air out the car with the fan on high and windows open to provide a path of escape for this awful air. I noticed I had developed a slight headache behind my right eye, like someone was stabbing me with a sharp knife! I have been in the Indoor Air Quality industry for the last two decades, so I know a thing or two about the consequences of breathing contaminated indoor air quality and it was starting to happen to me. Headache, dizziness, nausea, etc. I became acutely aware that I was breathing the 100s of chemicals found in home/car “fragrances” that are designed to mask unpleasant odors.

Our company has been providing ventilation solutions to homeowners for over 20 years now. I understand the importance of contaminant removal by creating air exchanges near or at the source of contamination. I know how to do this…why was it not working?!?!? I stopped more than three times on my 2 hour drive to see if I could locate the source of the odor. I knew if I could find what was creating this noxious smell, I could remedy the situation. No such luck. My headache was getting more intense with every passing moment.

Upon arrival at my destination, I was beyond thrilled to get out of that car and breathe in the fresh mountain air and see all my friends gathered in that way that only the excitement of a wedding creates.  Much to my distress, the headache, dizziness and nausea lingered into dinner. I realized at one point that nausea was growing in intensity. Unable to eat as I felt so ill, I excused myself from the table and spent the next hour and half in the restroom getting violently ill.  WHAT THE?!?!?!

I’ve spent the last 20 years educating our team and others on the detrimental health consequences of poor indoor air quality as contaminated indoor air has been named one of the top 3 health concerns by the US Environmental Protection Agency. I found it quite ironic that there I was bent over a restroom toilet feeling all the nasty effects of breathing that polluted indoor air. I had literally been trapped in that rental car forced to breathe dirty, polluted indoor air. Not unlike our many customers who are at their wits end with all the trapped chemicals and pollutants recirculating through their indoor environments.

I had always known this was what the experts warned against, I preached to anyone who would listen that breathing dirty, polluted indoor air was bad for our health, but I had never experienced it like this for myself. I will never pull out of a rental car lot again with a car that has an odor or “freshener” scent and I encourage you not to as well!

I went to bed that night with a renewed enthusiasm to do all I can to help educate and inform as many people as possible about the detrimental health consequences of breathing contaminated air, especially when it comes to so called “air fresheners”. I woke up the next morning feeling much better and did my best to stay out of that car for the next few days. What I found so interesting as I sat at the wedding surrounded by the aroma of roses, frangipani, and other flowers present was that these smells cannot be duplicated or substituted by chemicals, nothing smells as wonderful as the actual flower…why bother with the fake stuff full of toxins when you know it can (and will) make you sick!

– Erika Lacroix, Indoor Air Quality Advocate

How I know it was the car that made me sick:

“Volatile organic compounds and other chemicals contribute to poor indoor quality that causes or contributes to health concerns such as asthma, headaches, dry eyes, nasal congestion, nausea and fatigue, it’s extremely important to understand the role of proper ventilation or air exchanges.” – US EPA

“The majority of home and car air fresheners are created with Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). These are synthetic chemicals that can stay suspended in air. The EPA lists a number of possible adverse effects of exposure to VOCs including headaches, loss of coordination, nausea, liver, kidney, and central nervous system damage, cancer, and more.”  – National Motorists Assoc.

“Indoor air is on average two to five times more polluted than the air outdoors and can be up to 100 times more.” – US EPA

Read more here: Hazards of Car Air Fresheners – How to Stay Safe – National Motorists Association

Volatile chemical emissions from car air fresheners; Air Quality, Atmosphere & Health. Aug 4, 2020

”Air fresheners, used in a variety of indoor environments, emit a range of volatile chemicals, including some classified as hazardous. However, little is known about the emissions from air fresheners designed for use in cars. This study investigates the volatile organic compounds emitted from car air fresheners, identifies potentially hazardous compounds, compares emissions between so-called natural and regular versions, and assesses whether ingredients are disclosed. Using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, 12 car air fresheners were analyzed for their volatile emissions. Air freshener types included car vent clips, wraps, hanging ornaments, cans, and spray. Results reveal that the air fresheners collectively emitted 546 VOCs with 30 VOCs classified as potentially hazardous. All air freshener types emitted one or more potentially hazardous compounds. Comparing regular air fresheners with so-called natural or green air fresheners, no significant difference was found in the emissions of hazardous compounds. Notably, all products emitted at least one VOC classified as potentially hazardous. Among all of the 546 compounds emitted, fewer than 2% of all VOCs, and none of the potentially hazardous VOCs, were disclosed on any product label or safety data sheet. This study reveals that car air fresheners can be a source of exposure to numerous volatile compounds, including potentially hazardous VOCs, most of which are undisclosed. Of particular concern for human exposure is the small and enclosed breathing space within vehicles, as well as involuntary exposure in commercial vehicles such as taxi cabs and rideshares.”

  • Anne Steinemann,
  • Neda Nematollahi,
  • Justine Lew Weinberg,
  • Jennifer Flattery,
  • Nigel Goodman &
  • Spas D. Kolev
indoor air particles

May Is Asthma & Allergy Awareness Month

Posted by Andre & Erika Lacroix on

Take a deep breath in….aaaaaand exhale out….

Now, think about the fact that you will do that approximately 22,000-25,000 times EACH DAY.  That equates to 3,200 gallons of air you will breathe per day (about the same amount of gallons of water that’s in a 20’x40’ in-ground pool!).

breathing in and out - ezbreathe

Compare that to what you drink & eat. 

  • You drink an average of 3 ½ cups of liquid per day
  • You eat an average of 5 ½ lbs. of food per day.

We put a lot of consideration in to the kinds of food & drink we put in our body, but do we do the same with the air we breathe?

The foods we eat come with Nutrition Information, or what I like to call, an “Ingredients Disclosure”.  What if our house had the same thing?  What would be listed in your home’s Ingredients Disclosure?

Studies show that the air in our homes are, at a minimum, 5 times more polluted than the air outside.  And we are breathing 3,200 gallons of that air every day.  What are you doing about that?

air fresheners & spray - ezbreatheSome of the most common “solutions” actually make the indoor environment worse.  Things like candles, plug in air fresheners & sprays actually add dangerous volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in to our home.  Standard vacuums (without HEPA filtration), actually take the fine dirt particles & chemical compounds from the floor & introduce them in to the air.  While you mean well, there’s a very good chance you are making the indoor environment less healthy. 

According to the US EPA, improving IAQ involves a combination of Source Control & Ventilation.  Source control means eliminating the source.  Sometimes, this can be as simple as stop using and getting rid of the air fresheners, sprays, candles & plug ins. 

Ventilation is a must.  And, it is key to improving your indoor air quality. Installing a whole house ventilation system to flush out all that stagnant, polluted, unhealthy air will allow for fresher, cleaner air into the home. Removing indoor pollutants, such as asthma and allergy triggers, fumes from cleaning products, gases emitted from paint/carpet/etc. (VOCs), carbon dioxide, airborne particles, pet dander, smoke and odors from cooking, moisture from bathing, cooking, foundations etc. significantly improves the indoor air we breathe. We know enough to vent our bathrooms & kitchens with required exhaust ventilation systems.

The question is not whether to ventilate or not to ventilate. The question is, how much ventilation we need?  A whole house mechanical ventilation system allows you to customize the amount of air exchanged in the home.

Our homes are not only our single biggest financial investment, but it is where we live, breathe, sleep & create memories.  It’s time to give our homes the care & attention they need, our health depends on it.

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Why Basement Ventilation Systems Are Important For Your Home

Posted by Andre & Erika Lacroix on

Why Basement Ventilation Systems Are Important For Your Home

A basement ventilation system helps to properly circulate air throughout the space, preventing moisture buildup and odors. Without adequate ventilation, excessive moisture can cause mold and mildew growth that is not only damaging to your space but also hazardous to your health. Additionally, inadequate ventilation leads to stale air which can carry unpleasant smells from awkward areas such as bathrooms or laundry rooms. Basement ventilation systems are designed with powerful fans that constantly move fresh air through a designated system of ducts — drawing in cool, dry air from outside and pushing out warm, moist air from inside — making sure your basement stays healthy and odor-free. Investing in a basement ventilation system will help ensure you have a safe and comfortable living environment for years to come.basement-ventilation-system-ez-breathe-1

When considering basement ventilation, it is important to take into account the size of your basement and the climate in which you live in order to determine the most effective ventilation system for your needs. Investing in a basement ventilation system will help conserve energy, reduce mold and mildew growth, eliminate odors, and keep air healthy and fresh. With proper basement ventilation, you can enjoy your basement space free from moisture-related problems with peace of mind. We’d love to help you find the best basement ventilation system for your basement and make sure it is properly installed. Contact us today to learn more!basement-ventilation-system-ez-breathe-2

When it comes to basement ventilation, there are a number of solutions available to meet your needs. These solutions range from basement window fans and dehumidifiers to basement exhaust systems — each option providing its own benefits in terms of energy efficiency, cost savings, and overall effectiveness. For example, basement window fans draw in fresh air from outside while pushing out moist air from inside the room; basement exhaust systems can be installed for more extensive ventilation that is both efficient and cost effective; and dehumidifiers can help keep moisture levels low. Ultimately, the right basement ventilation system will depend on your individual needs and preferences. At EZ Breathe we understand this well and would love to help you find the basement ventilation solution that is right for you. Contact us today to learn more!

Contact the Professionals at EZ Breathe Today! 866-822-7328

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Why Basement Ventilation Systems Are Vital To Your Home

Posted by Andre & Erika Lacroix on

Why Basement Ventilation Systems Are Vital To Your Home

Basement ventilation systems are an essential component of a home’s overall health and safety. Proper ventilation helps protect indoor-air-quality-cleveland-oh-ez-breathe-2 against the build-up of moisture, mold, mildew, and other airborne contaminants that can cause significant damage to your home and health. Basements are particularly susceptible to high levels of humidity as they are often below grade and do not have access to natural airflow from outside.

By installing a basement ventilation system, you can improve indoor air quality by supplying fresh outdoor air into the space while removing stale, contaminated air out. These systems also help reduce energy costs by regulating temperature throughout the house more effectively. Additionally, these systems help prevent structural damage caused by condensation on basement walls and floors, which occurs when warm humid air comes in contact with cooler basement surfaces.

Ultimately, basement ventilation systems are essential for the health and safety of your basement, home, and family. Investing in a basement ventilation system is an important step towards protecting your home from costly damages and creating a healthier living environment. By understanding the many benefits basement ventilation systems offer, you can make an informed decision when choosing the best system for your basement. Ventilation systems are not only an investment in the safety and health of your basement, but they are also one of the most cost-effective ways to maintain a healthy basement environment.

 

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Keeping Your Indoor Air Vents Clean

Posted by Andre & Erika Lacroix on

Keeping Your Indoor Air Vents Clean


It is important to keep indoor air vents clean, as dirty air vents can cause a variety of issues. Build-up of dirt and debris in the ducts can result in reduced efficiency and increased energy costs, as well as health related problems such as increased allergies, asthma, respiratory illnesses and other air quality issues. Regular maintenance should include checking your vents for visible signs of dirt and dust accumulation, inspecting them for blockages or damage, and cleaning them regularly with approved products. In order to ensure that your indoor air quality remains healthy and efficient, it’s essential to consider regular maintenance for your air ducts.  indoor-air-quality-ez-breathe-1

Professional air duct cleaning services are available to help maintain the safety of your home ventilation system while ensuring that you receive optimal indoor air quality. Clean indoor air vents are essential in order to reduce the risk of indoor air pollution and health-related issues, so it is recommended that regular cleaning and maintenance be performed as part of a comprehensive home ventilation system routine. 

By taking measures to keep indoor air vents clean, you can help ensure the safety of your indoor environment for yourself and your family. It’s important to remember that there may still be some dust particles throughout the house even after thorough cleaning, but regularly maintaining them can help minimize the amount significantly. If you have any questions or concerns about indoor air quality, please contact a certified professional today. They will be able to answer any questions you have and provide guidance on how to properly maintain your indoor air vents and ensure indoor air quality. dehumidifier-ez-breathe-2

The benefits of regularly cleaning indoor air vents are worth the effort, as a healthy indoor environment is essential for your health and well-being. With regular maintenance, you can have peace of mind knowing that your indoor space is clean and safe for everyone who spends time in it. Taking steps to keep indoor air vents clean will help ensure that your indoor environment remains comfortable and healthy for years to come. 

 

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Household Products That Impact Indoor Air

Posted by Andre & Erika Lacroix on

Household Products That Impact Indoor Air

While most news articles on indoor air pollution tend to focus on candles, the air pollution effects of the products that we use in homes are far wider. The fossil-fuel-derived chemicals that evaporate from printing inks, adhesives, coatings, cleaning agents, and personal care products are now dominating the pollutants that form ozone in summer smogs and some types of particle pollution; exceeding the effects of emissions from traffic.indoor-air-pollution-ez-breathe-ventilation-system-1

Ph.D. student Amber Yeoman has been studying the air pollution produced when we take a shower. Building a shower in the laboratory was not practical, so instead Yeoman and her team relocated their equipment next to a shower room at the University of York.

Sample pipes were installed in the bathroom. Volunteers were each given the same supermarket products and asked to shower; starting with face washing and shower gel, followed by a shampoo, conditioner, moisturizer, and then aerosol deodorant.

One by one, volatile organic compounds were measured by Yeoman’s equipment. Highly reactive limonene came mainly from the citrus-smelling shampoo, benzyl alcohol from the conditioner, and ethanol from the moisturizer. This was different for each person and those people that rinsed for longer produced fewer emissions. Other chemicals were seen too, possibly linked to laundry products used to wash each volunteer’s towel (they brought their own) or their clothes. In other experiments, Yeoman’s equipment found that products worn by other researchers affected the air in her laboratory.indoor-air-pollution-ez-breathe-ventilation-system-2

New attention is being paid to these products because of the cumulative impact of the emissions from our homes and the way they react together to form harmful air pollution. Control of air pollution that forms from personal care products will not be easy. The first step will be to make manufacturers responsible for the pollution from the products they sell. Switching to non-aerosol products would be another simple change. It is clear from Yeoman’s work that any product labeling would have to reflect real-world use and also the fate of these chemicals in our drains and river systems.

Yeoman said: “Air quality labels would help communicate the possible negative impacts to consumers and it could well encourage manufacturers to change their products to attract health-conscious buyers. Cleanliness has also been equated with the presence of perfume, rather than the absence of malodor. Changing this mindset has altered my personal buying habits toward fragrance-free products.”

Contact the Professionals at EZ Breathe Ventilation System Today! 866-822-7328