Indoor Air Quality in Manassas, VA

Most homeowners are primarily concerned that their HVAC systems provide comfortable temperatures and humidity levels. Research has shown that the composition and quality of indoor air have a profound effect on comfort and health. HVAC technology has evolved to improve and control indoor air quality (IAQ), and these technologies are affordable and convenient.

What is Indoor Air Quality?

The EPA defines IAQ as “… the air quality within and around buildings and structures, especially as it relates to the health and comfort of building occupants.” Indoor air pollutants may have both immediate and long-term effects on health, well-being, and productivity. The key to controlling indoor pollutants is understanding their sources and available remedies. Indoor Air Quality service uses modern HVAC technologies to tackle these problems. IAQ services are available in Manassas, VA.

Why does Indoor Air Quality matter? 

Homeowners should consider these facts regarding IAQ:

    • Average Americans spend 90 percent of their time indoors.
    • More are working remotely at home because of Covid fears.
    • Indoor pollutant levels maybe 2-5 times greater than outdoor levels.
    • Those most vulnerable to pollutants (the very young, the elderly, the immuno-compromised) spend even more time indoors and therefore endure more exposure to pollutants.
    • Indoor pollution levels have increased in modern times because of improvements in construction techniques, the increased use of synthetic and often poisonous construction materials, and the increasing use of cleaners and other products made with potentially dangerous ingredients.
    • Nearly all contaminants adversely affecting indoor air quality arise from indoor sources.
    • Contaminant levels may be reduced or eliminated by the use of modern technology and routine Air Conditioning service.

What are the potential adverse health effects of poor indoor air?

These are common symptoms of poor indoor air quality:

    • Chronic inflammation or irritation of eyes, nose, and throat
    • Chronic difficulty with breathing through nose or mouth
    • Chronic dizziness, headaches, or fatigue
    • Respiratory difficulties.

If poor quality indoor air is not remedied, these symptoms may lead to respiratory diseases such as asthma and pneumonia, heart disease, and cancers.

Sources of Indoor Air Pollution

Causative links between common indoor pollutants such as radon, carbon monoxide, tobacco smoke, other particulates, and the Legionella bacterium and serious disease or death are well established.

Radon is a known carcinogen and is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Radon gas is naturally occurring and its intensity may be reduced with an HVAC solution.

Carbon monoxide is a by-product of burning fossil fuels, typically in a furnace, boiler, or water heater. High concentrations may lead to brain damage or death.

The Legionella bacterium is responsible for Legionnaires’ disease, a form of pneumonia associated with poorly maintained HVAC systems. Heating or Cooling Services performed regularly will reduce this and other risks.

Many particulates, such as tobacco smoke, pesticide, and chemical residues, pet dander, lead, dust mites, mold, dust, other insect residues, and asbestos, are allergens (or worse!) that may act as asthma triggers for those susceptible.

The presence of a combination of these pollutants may create the so-called sick building syndrome, which is a contaminated environment causing some or all residents to suffer various symptoms while physically present, with those symptoms subsiding, often immediately, upon departure. Many of the causes of sick building syndrome may be addressed with HVAC technologies such as air purification systems and dehumidification. Dynamic Air Systems is one such technology.

Other Factors Affecting Indoor Air Quality

Other factors impact indoor air quality. The factors include current weather, general climate, the air exchange rate, and homeowner behaviors.

General climate and current weather also affect indoor air quality. For example, current weather influences the extent to which homeowners keep windows open, open and close exterior doors, and operate air conditioners, furnaces, or humidifiers. A damp climate encourages interior moisture levels and mold growth. A family with young children may have doors open more often than a retired couple.

The air exchange rate is defined as the rate at which the air in a given area is replaced with new air. This replacement is a function of airflow and seriously affects indoor air quality. This rate is largely related to the design and construction method and materials of the home. Air will flow naturally in and out via joints and openings and will flow in both directions because of mechanical forces such as HVAC systems. A favorable air exchange rate will generally improve indoor air quality.

About Us

Trivett Mechanical Inc. has over 30 years of experience. In the DC Metro area, for HVAC our work is second to none. We are committed to customer satisfaction and look forward to serving you today.

Call for a Consultation Today

If a homeowner is in need of better Indoor Air  Quality, they can trust Trivett Mechanical Inc. to help. Trivett Mechanical also provides a wide range of heating and cooling services also. Browse the website to learn more or call (703) 335-5407 to schedule duct or HVAC Services.