Is poor indoor air quality causing our symptoms?« Back to Previous Page
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After the heavy smoke from the neighboring construction site last month, I’ve noticed a persistent acrid smell in our living room, even when we don’t have any fire nearby. The kids have been complaining of irritated eyes and coughing, especially during the evening hours. Could this be due to poor indoor air quality, and if so, what steps can I take to improve it?
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Absolutely, poor indoor air quality (IAQ) can very well be causing the symptoms you and your family are experiencing. The smell of acrid smoke lingering even without an active fire source is a red flag for IAQ issues. In Dubai/UAE, due to our climate and high-rise living, particulate matter, VOCs (volatile organic compounds), and other pollutants can easily build up indoors.
Firstly, consider getting your home inspected by a professional. The UAE, including Dubai, does not have specific regulations for residential indoor air quality, but it's important to adhere to industry standards like those set by the World Health Organization (WHO) or the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). A professional inspection will help identify sources of pollution such as construction dust, mold, or off-gassing from furniture and building materials. If you've had a nearby construction site emitting smoke, it's likely that fine particulates could be settling inside your home. To improve IAQ, start by ensuring good ventilation. Open windows when the air quality outside is relatively clean; however, avoid this during high pollution periods or in hot/dry weather to prevent moisture and dust from entering. Utilize exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to remove pollutants immediately. Investing in an air purifier that can filter out particulates and gases could also be beneficial. Look for models with HEPA filters for capturing fine particles, and activated carbon filters for removing odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Additionally, keep indoor plants as they can help improve air quality by absorbing CO2 and releasing oxygen. Ensure your HVAC system is clean and serviced regularly to prevent dust accumulation. Regularly cleaning your home with microfiber cloths and vacuums that have HEPA filters will help reduce allergens and pollutants. Also, check for signs of mold, especially in damp areas like bathrooms or basements, as this can exacerbate respiratory issues. Lastly, monitor the air quality during construction periods nearby to gauge when outdoor conditions might worsen. If you're noticing persistent symptoms despite these measures, it would be wise to call a professional for an inspection and remediation. You can contact us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for expert advice. Remember, maintaining good IAQ is crucial not just for comfort but for your health as well. |
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