Indoor Air Quality | VOCs | MVOCs

Indoor Air Quality | VOCs | MVOCs

Indoor Air Quality Environments

Maintaining good indoor air quality (IAQ) is essential for your health. According to the EPA, indoor air pollution poses a greater health risk than outdoor air pollution, with pollutant levels averaging 5 to 10 times higher than those found outside. With people now spending over 90% of their time indoors, exposure to these pollutants has never been more significant. On average, we inhale 12 to 16 times per minute and consume up to 3,400 gallons of air each day according to the American Lung Association. How much do you know about the air quality in the environments where you spend most of your time?

What are VOCs, and how do they affect indoor air quality?

VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are invisible gases emitted from solids and liquids commonly found in homes, including building materials, cooking sources, gasoline, fuels, air fresheners, paints, varnishes, dry-cleaning, laser printers, carpeting, flooring, furniture, clothing, adhesives, and cleaning solutions. These substances can off-gas potentially hazardous compounds. Elevated levels of carcinogenic VOCs may be well below the odor threshold, making them undetectable by smell. It is important to understand the health effects of any products used indoors.

Chemicals (VOCs) in the air we breathe are the largest and most complex factor in indoor air quality (IAQ). Simplifying the analysis of hundreds of chemicals into an understandable and actionable form is key to improving IAQ. Repeated exposure to VOCs can cause blurred vision, headaches, nausea, dizziness, coughing, lethargy, burning eyes, respiratory irritation, skin rashes, reduced lung function, respiratory illness, concentration difficulties, and depression. Higher exposure may lead to liver damage, kidney issues, and central nervous system irregularities. Some VOCs are also linked to cancer.

A simple yet comprehensive two-hour air test can detect over 500 unwanted VOCs and identify their likely sources. With this information, an effective action plan can be developed to create a healthier indoor environment.

What are MVOCs, and how do they affect indoor air quality?

MVOCs (Mold Volatile Organic Compounds) are gases (chemicals) produced by actively growing mold. Just as humans expel gases, so do molds. Whether mold is visible or hidden, MVOCs are released as mold digests its food. Elevated mold levels and chronic exposure in the home can lead to negative health effects or worsen existing conditions, ranging from mild to severe. These effects may include allergies, skin irritations, asthma, respiratory infections, and toxic poisoning. Individuals with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to illnesses caused by mold contamination.

Whether you’re buying a new home or living in your current one, indoor air quality plays a crucial role in your family's health. We partner with families to create healthier, safer homes."

Why You Should Test Your Indoor Air with an IAQ Home Survey

• The Only Comprehensive Home Air Quality Assessment
  • Monitors 500+ airborne chemicals and hidden mold growth with a single air sample
  • Covers up to 2,000 sq. ft. per test
  • Identifies chemical pollutants that may impact your health
  • Predicts chemical sources, whether from the home or its contents
  • Detects hazardous air pollutants
  • Optional formaldehyde testing available (additional charge)

• Clear and Concise Analysis Reports
  • Provides total VOC and active mold level results
  • Predicts VOC sources and offers an action plan
  • Delivered within a few days of testing

• Peace of Mind at an Economical Price
  • Dual air quality assessment: VOCs and active mold growth
  • Can detect hidden mold
  • Non-destructive testing