Are PM 2.5 Airborne Particulates Contaminating the Air in Your Home?

Did you know that the air inside your home can actually contain more contaminants than the air in some of the largest cities in the U.S.? It’s true. Homes tend to not only collect air contaminants, but they often circulate them throughout the home instead of removing them, similar to the way bacteria is circulated over and over again on a plane. Depending on where you live, the most dangerous contaminants you may be dealing with are PM 2.5 airborne particulates.

What is PM 2.5?

PM stands for “particle matter,” also known as particle pollution. Particle matter simply refers to a mixture of solids and liquid droplets floating in the air. Particle matter comes in different sizes. PM larger than 10 micrometers does not pose a serious threat, but anything smaller than 10 micrometers is small enough to enter the lungs. Once you get to particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers, you can experience some serious health risks.

Where do PM 2.5 particulates come from?

PM 2.5 airborne particulates are most often found in homes located near busy streets, boulevards, freeways and construction zones. The dust, dirt and other substances emitted directly from these sites make up the majority of the PM 2.5 particulates. Other particulates are typically a combination of chemicals and substances such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides.

What are some of the health risks of PM 2.5?

As with any airborne contaminants, the health risks can vary in type and severity depending on the individual and level of exposure. However, because PM 2.5 particulates are so small, they can be inhaled deep into the lungs and may even enter your bloodstream. If your home is near busy streets, boulevards, freeways or a construction site, here are some of the harmful effects of PM 2.5 that you should be aware of:

• Coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath
• Irritation of the eyes, nose and throat
• Reduced lung function
• Asthma attacks
• Irregular heartbeat
• Heart attacks
• Premature death in people with preexisting conditions

What should you do to protect your family from PM 2.5?

If you live in an area that is at risk for PM 2.5 airborne particulates, the first thing you should do is have a professional check the quality of the air in your home. As an indoor environmental consulting firm, our team at HealthSafe Inspections Inc. specializes in airborne contaminant testing, mold testing and asbestos testing in Aspen, CO. We will check the air in your home for PM 2.5 and make recommendations to help improve the air quality in your home. Investing in an air purifier is one way to help reduce the risk of PM 2.5 in your home.

If you’re concerned about PM 2.5 contaminants in your home, be sure to contact HealthSafe Inspections Inc. today. As a local expert for air testing and asbestos testing in Aspen, CO, we have the knowledge and equipment to help you make the air in your home cleaner and safer.

Categorised in: Indoor Air Quality

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