Today, many of us are spending more time at home than ever before. Our homes have become our new office, gym, and everything in between. Now more than ever before, we’re paying attention to the things in our homes and giving them a little TLC. But have you considered your home’s air quality? Lindstrom Air Conditioning and Plumbing care about providing you with healthier, easier and cleaner breathing, so we’re here to help.
There are many common allergens and pollutants in our homes that affect the air quality we breathe. Formaldehyde is a common indoor air pollutant that may or may not sound familiar to you. It is a colorless, strong pickle-like smelling gas that can cause several physical irritants to your body when exposed in low doses. You may be exposed in your home and not even know if your eyes, nose, throat, and lungs are frequently irritated. Sometimes, formaldehyde can even have the potential to cause asthma attacks. Although that sounds concerning, don’t worry. Most people never exhibit illnesses related to excessive exposure to formaldehyde, but you’ll want to keep it on your radar.
Here are five things you should know about formaldehyde:
- Choose free or low formaldehyde building materials. This gassy monster is most common in new construction homes and house materials such as lumber, particleboard, hardwood plywood paneling, laminate flooring, wood cabinets, and wood furniture. It’s best to allow these products to “air out” unwrapped, out of your living space for a couple of days before using it. As if that’s not enough, there’s more.
- Formaldehyde is common in everyday household products. From paint to cosmetics and soap, it’s used in the manufacturing process.
- Hot and humid homes can cause increases in the levels of formaldehyde. The emission rate of formaldehyde increases with heat and humidity and can spread more quickly throughout your house. It’s best to occasionally open a window or utilize your exhaust fan to allow fresh air to circulate in your house. If possible, be sure also to keep your home cool and dry to prevent further contamination.
- Avoid smoking indoors. Secondhand cigarette emissions contain formaldehyde and many other harmful chemicals that result in poor air quality and health. The best way to avoid exposure is by eliminating tobacco smoke indoors.
- Invest in an air purifier. Sleep sound and breathe easy knowing that your home’s air quality is pure. Lucky for you, Lindstrom provides and services the Guardian Air Purifier from RGF, which reduces or eliminates viruses, bacteria, and contaminants, including formaldehyde.
Since formaldehyde seems like the monster that lives everywhere, it’s essential to take the necessary precautions and do what you can to reduce risk. If you need more guidance or want to upgrade your air filtration system, our Lindstrom Air Conditioning and Plumbing team can help. Give us a call at (800) 813-1824 to schedule an appointment.