These are signs you’re experiencing issues with your IAQ.
- An uncomfortable indoor atmosphere
- Bad smells
- Frequent heating or cooling issues
- Dirty surfaces
- Frequent filter clogs
- Physical symptoms
- Increase in allergies
- Visible mold
In addition to particulate matter, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are a concern. VOCs off-gas from things like carpet, linoleum flooring, paint, furniture, air fresheners, and chemical cleaning products. You cannot remove VOCs using a traditional filter. However, air filtration units can handle a restrictive activated carbon filter. The activated carbon will absorb the VOCs, and cleaner air will circulate in your home. If you have equipment that uses photocatalytic oxidation, VOCs can break down this way. VOC exposure can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, and developmental issues in children. It can even increase the risk of some cancers. For these reasons, purification of your indoor air is important.