Why Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Matters: Key Stats and Tips for Healthier Living

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is more important than many people realize, especially since we spend about 90% of our time indoors. Poor IAQ can lead to a range of health issues, from respiratory problems to reduced productivity. In this post, we’ll explore why IAQ is so critical, share some eye-opening statistics, and offer tips on how to improve the air in your home or workplace.

The Health Risks of Poor IAQ

Indoor air pollution can have serious consequences for your health. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 4.3 million deaths each year are attributed to poor IAQ, many due to respiratory diseases like asthma, COPD, and lung cancer.

Asthma and Allergies: The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 25 million Americans suffer from asthma, and poor IAQ can trigger or worsen symptoms. Dust, pet dander, and mold are common indoor allergens.
Sick Building Syndrome: The EPA estimates that 30% of newly built or remodeled buildings suffer from Sick Building Syndrome (SBS), where occupants experience headaches, dizziness, and fatigue due to poor air quality.

Common Indoor Pollutants

Indoor pollutants are often invisible but can pose serious risks. Some of the most common offenders include:

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Chemicals found in cleaning products, paints, and furniture can cause headaches and dizziness. Indoor VOC levels can be 2 to 5 times higher than outdoor levels, according to the EPA.
Particulate Matter (PM2.5): Fine particles from cooking, heating, and tobacco smoke can penetrate deep into the lungs, increasing the risk of respiratory diseases. PM2.5 contributes to 70,000 deaths annually in the U.S., according to the American Lung Association.
Radon: A radioactive gas that seeps from the ground, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., responsible for about 21,000 deaths each year.

Why IAQ Matters for Productivity

Poor IAQ doesn’t just affect your health; it can also impact your work. Research from Harvard found that employees in offices with better air quality were 61% more productive, showing that cleaner air leads to better focus and higher output.

How to Improve IAQ

Improving IAQ can be simple. Here are some key tips:

Ventilate Regularly: Open windows, use exhaust fans, and replace HVAC filters to keep air flowing.
Control Humidity: Keep humidity levels between 30% and 50% to prevent mold and dust mites.
Reduce Pollutants: Choose low-VOC products and avoid smoking indoors.
Clean Often: Dust and vacuum regularly to minimize allergens and pollutants.

Trust Southern Comfort for Your HVAC Needs

If your indoor air quality needs improvement, don’t wait for symptoms to appear. At Southern Comfort, we’re dedicated to ensuring your home or office has the best air possible. Whether it’s improving ventilation or installing a new HVAC system, we’re here to help. Remember—if sweet tea can’t fix it, we can! Trust us for all your HVAC needs, and breathe easier knowing you’re in good hands.