rating iconrating iconrating icon

Causes of Indoor Air Pollution

causes of indoor air pollution

Causes of indoor air pollution may not be something that crosses your mind. Most people think that air pollution only occurs outside of the home, but did you know indoor air can be dirtier than the air outside? Indoor air pollution can be more harmful to your health than outdoor air pollution. Indoor air pollutants can affect the health and comfort of you and your family leading to health effects shortly or years after exposure.  Indoor air pollution is created by the release of harmful pollutants inside the home such as fine particulate matter, carbon monoxide and other toxins. Some are easily recognized due to their odor, but others can go undetected. In this article we discuss common causes of indoor air pollution and how to combat them.

Tobacco Smoke

Secondhand smoke is often referred to as passive smoking. The EPA classifies it as a Group A carcinogen and contains 200 poisons and 43 carcinogens. Secondhand smoke can cause heart disease, stroke, lung cancer, asthma, and other respiratory ailments. It is one of the most severe of indoor air pollutants.

Biological Pollutants

Biological pollutants are contaminants produced by living things, including mold, bacteria, viruses, pollen, pet dander, dust and mites. They are commonly found in areas with excessive moisture. These indoor air pollutants can trigger asthma, allergies or other serious respiratory infections.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Volatile organic compounds, otherwise known as VOCs are gases emitted from certain solids or liquids. They are a result of many household products such as cleaning products, aerosol sprays, air fresheners, chemicals, paints and solvents. When VOCs are released into the air they can cause both short term and long term effects such as sick building syndrome, headaches, nausea, damage to the liver, kidney, and central nervous system.

Pesticides

Pesticides are used to control pests and therefore are inherently toxic. They are known to disrupt the endocrine system, cause eye, nose and throat irritation and can lead to increased risk of cancer.  

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde can be found in carpets and upholstery that use formaldehyde as permanent adhesive. It is classified as a known human carcinogen by the World Health Organization.

Combustion Pollutants

Combustion pollutants are gases or particles that are emitted by unvented or poorly vented fuel – burning appliances such as a fireplace, heater, gas stove, water heater and/or dryer. One of the hazardous gases that may be produced is carbon monoxide (CO). Carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal.

How To Reduce Indoor Air Pollution:

Keep Your Environment Clean and Dry

One way to reduce indoor air pollution is to keep your indoor space clean and dry, especially important in areas where mold and mildew tend to grow. It is especially important to repair any leaks or water damage to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Proper Ventilation

Ventilate your indoor space and let fresh air circulate freely. Proper ventilation helps remove polluted indoor air. Inadequate ventilation is especially a concern in homes that are sealed tight to conserve energy. Another way to improve ventilation is relocating intakes or moving ductwork.

Use HEPA Filters

High- efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters which are designed to reduce indoor air pollution by trapping 99.97% of dust, pollen, pet dander and smoke particles. The higher the MERV rating the better the filter’s ability to block particles. However, HEPA filters can restrict airflow which can put an additional strain on your HVAC system. Check your HVAC system manual to determine which filter is best for your equipment and needs.

Use Air Purification Technology

An air purifier can help reduce the levels of indoor air pollutants such as dust, pollen, mold spores, pet dander, and VOCs. Another option is installing UVC lights in your HVAC system, they are useful for destroying contaminants on surfaces.  There are also oxidation and ionization air purifiers. These type of air purifiers can destroy particles in the air, not only within the HVAC system.

Schedule Routine HVAC Maintenance

Since your indoor air is circulated by your HVAC system, routine HVAC maintenance is essential in maintaining good IAQ. Not only will routine tune-ups help minimize indoor air pollution it will also keep your HVAC system performing properly and efficiently.

Contact LA Construction, Heating and Air

Aside from the recommendations mentioned above, simple steps you can take to minimize indoor air pollution is to use green cleaners, keep indoor plants, and choose low- emitting furnishings. We value your safety and indoor comfort and provide services and options to improve your indoor air quality. Give us a call today or contact us online, we are here to help!

Causes of Indoor Air Pollution Related Posts:

Our Services

Air Conditioning Installation

For AC installation, our certified team ensures a professional and seamless AC replacement process. We perform a detailed load calculation to select the perfect AC unit for maximum energy efficiency. We handle everything from ductless mini-split systems to full HVAC system installation, guaranteeing a quality AC installation service that keeps you cool and saves you money. Learn more

two air conditioning units near los angeles
Technician talking to customer about ac

Heating Installation

We provide expert heating installation and furnace replacement services. Our certified technicians perform a thorough load calculation to recommend the best and most energy-efficient furnace installation. We manage every detail of your new heating system installation, from start to finish, to deliver a high-quality, reliable, and professional heating installation service.
Learn more

Air Conditioning Repair

At home or at your workplace, there's always the potential for sudden HVAC operating failure and the need for immediate HVAC repair. We'll put you back into the comfort zone ASAP. Our technicians are experienced, EPA certified, trained, background checked, drug tested, Workers' Compensation insured, uniformed, professional, and honest. They will diagnose your system and provide you with a written estimate for repairs.

Technician working with gauges near condenser
Person working on indoor ac unit

Heating Repair

When your heating fails, our team provides prompt and professional heating repair and furnace repair. We are experts at diagnosing and fixing a wide range of issues. We offer fast emergency heating repair to minimize your business's downtime, delivering reliable heating service that ensures your system runs safely and efficiently all winter. Learn more

Air Quality

Whether you're at home or at work, your health and comfort can be affected by poor air quality. And, the air quality is affected by the air temperature, the humidity, the quality of ventilation and any contaminants or irritants like indoor pets, pollen, dust mites, cleaning products, lead, Formaldehyde and Asbestos, Poor Air Flow, mildew and mold. Poor air quality can cause more than slight discomfort - much more!

Picture of zipper opening up on Los Angeles
HVAC Technician working on a unit on rooftop

Maintenance

As Benjamin Franklin said, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Same idea applies to your central heater and air conditioner maintenance.Think of it as an oil change for your auto, which improves your car's engine performance, maximizes your gas millage and minimized down time by avoiding unnecessary repairs.

What our clients say

Shape- Social Media IconShape BG CTA

New In Our Blog

Piggy Bank with cash falling out near AC

2025 Los Angeles Heat Pump Rebates

Los Angeles homeowners can save thousands on heat pump installations with rebates from LADWP, federal tax credits, and incentives from TECH Clean California. Learn how these programs can dramatically lower your upfront costs, boost home efficiency, and contribute to a greener future.

Piggy Bank with cash falling out near AC

What to Look for When Choosing a New HVAC System

Choosing a new HVAC system is a significant investment that requires careful consideration of your specific needs, from the size of your space to your budget and energy efficiency goals. The key to a successful project is not only selecting the right system type and features but also hiring a qualified, professional contractor in Los Angeles for proper and safe installation.

Piggy Bank with cash falling out near AC

Attic Fan Installation for Los Angeles Homes

Boost comfort in your Los Angeles home with attic fan installation. Discover how attic ventilation improves AC efficiency, protects your home, and keeps it cooler—especially when paired with a new AC installation.

Piggy Bank with cash falling out near AC

BWP Heat Pump Rebates & Installation in Burbank | Save Now

Learn how BWP heat pump rebates can lower your AC replacement costs. Maximize heat pump savings—contact LA Construction, Heating and Air for a free estimate.

Piggy Bank with cash falling out near AC

Air Conditioning Service for Los Angeles

Need air conditioning service in Los Angeles? LA Construction, Heating and Air provides expert AC maintenance, repair, and installation to keep your home or business perfectly cool.

Piggy Bank with cash falling out near AC

Commercial AC Repair: Recognizing the Red Flags in Your LA Business

Don't let a failing commercial AC disrupt your Los Angeles business. This guide helps you identify critical signs of trouble, from weak airflow to rising energy costs, ensuring timely commercial AC repair or installation.

We Install and Service All Major Makes and Models