What is the best way to Fix Indoor Air Quality

The best way to fix indoor air quality is to fix the problems that are creating it. That is, don’t let the water leak in the first place.

In general, we should be able to address most indoor air quality problems at the source. This means fixing water leaks, reducing or eliminating sources of combustion gases, and filtering particulates out of the air.

If there is a toxic substance involved, then you may need to hire a company to remove it. For example, you should not try to remove asbestos on your own–leave that to professionals who have the expertise and the specialized equipment required to do so safely. If you live in a building made from friable asbestos, it may be best to move out while the remediation is done.

Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) has been tied to symptoms like headaches, fatigue, trouble concentrating, and irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and lungs. In addition to increased sickness, poor IAQ can cause damage to your home.

The most common sources of indoor air pollution are combustion sources such as oil, gas, kerosene, coal, wood, and tobacco products; building materials and furnishings as diverse as deteriorated asbestos-containing insulation, wet or damp carpet, and cabinetry or furniture made of certain pressed wood products; products for household cleaning and maintenance, personal care or hobbies; central heating and cooling systems and humidification devices; and outdoor sources such as radon, pesticides, and outdoor air pollution.

Some sources—like those that contain asbestos—can release a pollutant only once. Others continually emit pollutants. The amount of a pollutant released by a source depends on many factors. These include how much of a pollutant the source contains; whether its containment is intact; the toxicity of the pollutant; how often the source is used; how long it is used each time; how well ventilated an area is (that is, how much outdoor air is mixed with indoor air); and the climate.