Pollutants in the home: symptoms, measurement methods and solutions

In recent years, awareness of environmental and health issues has increased enormously. The most common indoor pollutants are formaldehyde, mold, volatile organic compounds (VOCs ) and other chemical compounds. These pollutants can come from a variety of sources, such as furniture, paint, cleaning products or even building materials. These invisible enemies can significantly affect our health and lead to a variety of symptoms that are often not immediately associated with indoor air quality.

Who would have thought that the new couch or the freshly painted room could not only be beautiful, but also pose a health risk? It is important to be aware of these risks in order to take appropriate measures to improve indoor air quality.

Typical symptoms caused by pollutants in the home

The symptoms caused by pollutants in the home are varied and can differ from person to person. Breathing difficulties, allergies, headaches and fatigue are just some of the most common signs that can indicate poor indoor air quality. Often these symptoms are not immediately associated with pollutants, which further complicates the situation.

Here is a short list of symptoms that you should keep in mind:

• Breathing difficulties: Coughing, wheezing or a general feeling of tightness in the chest can indicate pollutants.
• Allergic reactions: Sudden allergies that occur in a new home are a warning sign.
• Headaches: Frequent headaches that occur for no apparent reason may indicate poor air quality.
• Tiredness: Persistent tiredness that cannot be explained by a lack of sleep could also be a sign.

Early detection is crucial. If you notice one or more of these symptoms in yourself or your family, it could be time to take a closer look at your indoor air quality.

Common pollutants in living spaces

Pollutants in living spaces are diverse and can come from a wide variety of sources. Here are some of the most common culprits that you should be aware of:

• Formaldehyde: This chemical gas is contained in many furniture and building materials. It can cause respiratory problems and allergic reactions.
• Mold: Moisture in the home can lead to mold growth, which not only smells unpleasant but also poses serious health risks.
• VOCs (volatile organic compounds): These substances are contained in many household products such as paints, varnishes and cleaning agents. They can cause headaches and breathing difficulties.

It is important to educate yourself about these pollutants. Knowledge is power, and the more you know about the dangers in your home, the better you can take proactive measures.

How to measure pollutants in the home

If you suspect that your home is contaminated with pollutants, there are various methods to check this. A professional air analysis is one of the most accurate ways to measure pollutants in indoor air. A sample of your indoor air or a dust sample is examined for possible pollutants in a specialized laboratory.

For the DIY testers among you, there are also some easy ways to check the air quality. Here are some steps you can follow:

1. Preparation: Close windows and doors at least 8 hours before the measurement in order to obtain an accurate result.
2. Devices: Get a hygrometer to measure the humidity. A value above 60 percent can already be problematic.
3. Self-test kits: There are several kits on the market that can help you test for contaminants like formaldehyde.

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The air-Q, which can measure pollutants precisely and in real time, offers a particularly simple option. The air-Q is equipped with highly sensitive sensors that detect a variety of pollutants such as formaldehyde, VOCs, particulates and CO₂. The device continuously analyzes the indoor air and provides the results clearly in an app, which also offers specific recommendations for action. Thanks to its simple operation and comprehensive data analysis, the air-Q helps to identify potential hazards at an early stage and take targeted measures to improve air quality. In this way, you combine state-of-the-art technology with the aim of creating a healthier living environment.

Professional pollutant measurement: when and how?

There are situations in which a professional pollutant measurement in the home makes sense. If you are experiencing symptoms that indicate pollution, or if you live in an older home where hazardous materials such as asbestos or old paint may have been used, you should not hesitate to consult a professional.

The advantages of a professional analysis are manifold. Specialists have the necessary equipment and expertise to carry out a precise pollutant measurement. The cost of such a measurement can range from 50 to 400 euros, depending on the complexity of the analysis.

A checklist for your appointment with a specialist could look like this:

• Note symptoms
• Prepare questions on indoor air quality
• Collect information about the materials used in the home

Measures to improve indoor air quality

The good news is that there are many practical steps you can take to improve indoor air quality. Here are some tips that can help you:

• Ventilate regularly: Open the windows every day to let in fresh air and remove pollutants.
• Air purifier: Invest in an air purifier that filters pollutants effectively.
• Plants: Certain plants such as the peace lily or ivy can help to improve air quality. They not only look good, but are also useful.

A small change can have a big impact on your health. It's worth taking action and improving the air quality in your home.

Conclusion: Pollutant awareness for a healthy home

In summary, awareness of pollutants in the home is crucial. The impact on health can be serious and it is important to take proactive measures. Regular checks and working with professionals are crucial to creating a healthy living environment.

Don't be intimidated by invisible dangers. Inform yourself, measure the air quality and take measures to improve it. Your health and well-being are worth it!