The Facts About Clean Air

Here are some little known facts about the air inside many homes:

• The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that indoor air pollutant levels may be two to five times higher than the pollutant levels outdoors.
  
  
• Indoor air pollution is one of the top environmental concerns in the country.
  
  
• Americans spend up to 90% of their time indoors.
  
  
• Indoor air pollutants such as tobacco smoke, pollen, mold, dust and animal dander can create asthmatic and allergic reactions.
  
  

What contributes to poor indoor air quality?

Today's homes are built energy efficient to "hold" air inside - avoiding heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. Of course, what's better for your energy bills isn't necessarily better for indoor air quality. This type of construction doesn't allow the home to breathe. Opening a window isn't always the answer - that's when an air purifier / air cleaner can help, especially if someone in your home suffers from allergies.

Sources of Air Pollution

Tobacco Smoke

Tobacco smoke is one of the smallest allergens , and for years the EPA has reported the link between second-hand smoke and health effects.

Pollen

Pollen comes from trees, flowers and grass, and even opening a door can allow millions of these particles into a home. Some people are particularly sensitive to the presence of certain pollen particles.

Animal Dander

People who are allergic to cats and dogs are actually allergic to the dander flakes their pets shed. Dander can remain in a home long after the presence of the host animal.

Mold and Mildew

Typically found in the shower, kitchen or basement, these sneaky plant spores also grow any place that's warm and humid.

Courtesy of: The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) - A Consumer Advocate Group