To help keep your household safe, we’ve created a guide on how to monitor your indoor air quality and make sure the air you breathe is clean.
Pollutants to Look Out For
The first step in monitoring air quality is knowing which pollutants may be present indoors. Many originate from inside the home itself, while others drift in from outdoors. Common culprits include:
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
VOCs are gases released by certain products and processes, and they’re a leading cause of poor indoor air quality. You can often smell them when they’re present. Common sources include:
- Disinfectants
- Air fresheners
- Cleaning solutions
- Dehumidifiers
- New carpets or furniture (which can emit formaldehyde gas)
Polluted groundwater and other outdoor sources can also contribute VOCs that find their way inside.
Particulate Matter
Particulate matter is a mix of solid particles and liquid droplets suspended in the air, including dust, pollen, soot, and smoke. The smaller the particles—10 micrometers or less—the more dangerous they are, since they can be inhaled deep into the lungs.
Indoors, smoking and fireplaces contribute to particulate buildup. Outdoors, fossil fuel emissions and construction dust can travel inside through open windows or ventilation systems, lowering air quality.
Carbon Monoxide
Unlike VOCs, carbon monoxide (CO) has no odor, color, or taste, making it especially dangerous. Even at low levels, it causes fatigue, chest pain, and vision problems. At higher concentrations, it can be fatal. Common sources include:
- Faulty furnaces or boilers
- Generators
- Poorly vented appliances
- Vehicle exhaust near the home
Mold
High humidity often leads to mold growth indoors, especially if your HVAC system isn’t controlling moisture effectively. Mold releases spores into the air, which can cause allergic reactions and respiratory illness. To reduce the risk, the EPA recommends keeping humidity levels between 30–60%.
How to Monitor the Quality of Indoor Air
Wondering if the air in your home is truly healthy? These are the main tools and methods for monitoring IAQ:
Air Quality Sensors
Sensors detect pollutants and measure their levels, sending electronic signals to alert you when air quality drops. Depending on the model, sensors can monitor:
- Carbon monoxide
- Humidity
- Radon
- Particulate matter
- VOCs
- Formaldehyde
Some advanced sensors also measure methane and bioaerosols. Placement is key, so consult an HVAC professional for proper installation.
Air Purifiers
Air purifiers help reduce allergens, dust, and particulate matter, making breathing easier—especially for those with asthma or allergies. They work in two ways:
- Releasing negatively charged ions that attract and neutralize airborne pollutants
- Using HEPA filters to trap fine particles and remove them from circulation
For best results, have a professional help you choose and install the right unit for your home.
Air Quality Professionals
If you’ve added sensors and purifiers but still suspect poor IAQ, it’s time to call an expert. Warning signs include:
- Headaches or dizziness
- Fatigue
- Irritated eyes, nose, or throat
Mold growth, recent renovations, or opened walls for plumbing work are additional red flags. Some pollutants—like radon and mold spores—can be difficult to detect without specialized testing. Long-term exposure can lead to serious illnesses, so professional testing is the most reliable way to identify and resolve air quality issues.
Get Started With Professionals
If you’re ready to monitor and improve the air in your home, turn to Blue Best Plumbing, Heating, Air, & Generators. As Bountiful’s trusted HVAC experts, we provide complete indoor air quality solutions, including air purifiers, dehumidifiers, ventilation, and filtration systems. We also specialize in heating and cooling installation, maintenance, and repair.
With over 20 years of experience, our team is here to ensure your family breathes cleaner, healthier air year-round. Call Blue Best Plumbing, Heating, Air, & Generators today to schedule your indoor air quality service.
