IAQ Dangers: Beware of These Volatile Organic Compounds in Your Home

Are you a homeowner in Burleson, Texas? If so, your indoor air quality should be a major concern. Therefore, you should know that volatile organic compounds can pollute your home’s air. These chemicals can cause serious health problems, especially for family members with asthma or allergies. Here are five volatile organic compounds that could be in your home and harming your IAQ:

Acetone

Firstly, acetone is a chemical that you can typically find in nail polish remover and furniture polish. Fortunately, there are several acetone-free nail polish removers on the market. You can also purchase water-based furniture polish instead of furniture polish with acetone.

Dichlorobenzene

If you store out-of-season clothes, bed linens or other cloth items, you probably use mothballs to avoid damage when these items are in storage. Unfortunately, mothballs contain a toxic chemical called dichlorobenzene. Cedar chips are an excellent alternative. Lavender sachets are, too, since the scent of lavender repels moths.

Terpenes

Terpenes are a group of chemicals produced by plants and insects, many of which can cause an allergic reaction. Soap and laundry detergent often contain these chemicals, and you can replace these items with citrus-based products.

Butanal

While scented candles might make your indoor air smell nice, they can also cause air pollution. Many scented candles contain a chemical called butanal, which helps the candle burn. Look for candles made of beeswax or soy with cotton wicks. As a result, you’ll help to improve your IAQ.

Carbon Disulfide

Chlorinated tap water contains a volatile organic compound called carbon disulfide. Fortunately, several charcoal-filtration and carbon-filtration systems on the market can remove the chemical.

Indoor Air Quality Solutions

Finally, in addition to switching to products free of volatile organic compounds, it’s a good idea to invest in an air purifier. This device can remove contaminants you may not even be aware of in your home.

Airmasters Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. is happy to help improve your home’s air quality. Call us today to discuss our many air quality solutions.

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