This article concerning IAQ (indoor air quality) was targeted for the housing industry and residential HVAC .  As a commercial HVAC contractor, this is always a concern for our teams as well, both in planning & design and on the maintenance side.  Imagine if you will, the effects on an individual’s health that leaves a “sick home” in the morning only to go to work for 8 hours in a facility with “Sick Building Syndrome”.  This is a great reminder of the need for regular professional maintenance.

Health problems caused by indoor air pollutants, such as mold, CO, and pet dander, continue to draw concern among homeowners. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), each year, more than 7 million people across the globe die because of exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution. Of those 7 million premature deaths, 3.8 million are caused by exposure to indoor air pollution.

As an industry, we have an obligation to consider home health and IAQ as a primary driver in any home ventilation plan. While exterior pollutants, such as smog and CO, may receive more attention, IAQ within a home can have serious effects on our physical and mental health, as well. Unsettling as it may sound, our home could actually be making us sick, leaving builders and manufacturers vulnerable to damaging and costly reputational harm and possible litigation. Here are common unresolved issues that lead to IAQ problems and “sick homes.” Contractors who focus on these issues will build better relationships with their customers and earn the word-of- mouth advertising that is sure to increase their bottom lines.

Article originally appeared here - https://www.achrnews.com/articles/140069-infographic-6-deadly-facts-about-indoor-air-quality