Colorado Springs Indoor Air Quality Services

What Are the Signs of Poor Air Quality in a House?

Indoor air pollution doesn't always present immediate visual cues, which can make it challenging to recognize if you don’t know what to look out for. Several common warning signs can indicate poor air quality and warrant calling in the professionals to investigate.

Your home may have an air quality problem if you are dealing with one or more of the following issues:

• Persistent odors. A lingering smell, whether it’s a musty basement scent or cooking odors that refuse to dissipate, can signify insufficient ventilation. Stale air can be a breeding ground for mold and bacteria, which can further deteriorate air quality and pose health risks.
• Excessive dust levels. A noticeable build-up of dust on surfaces and in the air could indicate inadequate filtration. If dust accumulates quickly after cleaning, it might be time to schedule an air quality assessment. 
• Frequent respiratory issues. If you or members of your family experience recurring colds, sneezing, coughing, or sore throats unrelated to common seasonal illnesses, poor air quality may be to blame. Irritants like pollen, mold, and chemical pollutants can exacerbate these symptoms.
• Humidity problems. Excessive humidity can promote mold growth and attract pests, which are both detrimental to air quality. Conversely, air that is too dry can lead to itchy skin, irritated eyes, and respiratory issues. Maintaining balanced indoor humidity is key for comfort and health.
• Visible mold growth. Mold is not only damaging to homes but a major health hazard as well. Visible mold, particularly around windows, in bathrooms, or in areas with poor ventilation, is a clear sign of poor air quality and should be addressed immediately to reduce the risk of health complications.
• Discoloration on walls or ceilings. Staining or discoloration could indicate water damage that often accompanies mold growth. Water leaks and condensation leading to these visual signs should be investigated promptly to help prevent continued deterioration of air quality. We also offer plumbing services and can locate hidden leaks that could be causing or contributing to this problem.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Indoor Air Quality?

A variety of factors can compromise your home’s indoor air quality. Some causes may be fairly obvious, while others may not become apparent until a trained professional can inspect your home’s insulation and ductwork. 

Our Colorado Springs indoor air quality services include help identifying and addressing many common pollutants and contributors to air quality issues, including: 

• Poor ventilation. Inadequate ventilation means that fresh outdoor air doesn't replace indoor air often enough, allowing for the build-up of indoor pollutants. This can lead to a concentration of harmful substances like carbon dioxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other cumulative toxins linked to routine household activities and products.
• Damaged or leaking ductwork. Leaks or damage in ductwork can lead to inefficient air circulation, allowing contaminants from unconditioned spaces, such as attics or crawl spaces, to enter the indoor air supply. This can exacerbate dust levels and introduce additional pollutants, undermining the effectiveness of the HVAC system and compromising indoor air quality.