1. Over 40 million Americans suffer from allergies and 17 million struggle with asthma 2. More than 1,500 hazardous substances may be found in the typical American home. What happens when you take this polluted air into your lungs? - Allergies, asthma, dizziness, sinus issues, ear infections, headaches, nausea, and respiratory infections. Indeed, about 50 million Americans suffer from allergies and asthma, and this equates to 9 million doctor visits per year! 3. Bacteria and molds promote poor indoor air quality. 4. Pets and tobacco smoke significantly contribute into indoor air pollution 5. According to the EPA, "indoor pollution can be as much as 100 times greater than outdoors."
Those particularly vulnerable to indoor pollutants include infants, people with heart, lung diseases and asthma. Additionally, anyone with extreme sensitivity to chemicals might want to seriously consider using an air purifier.
There are various types of air purifiers, so you can buy a purifier that fits your needs and wallet. The most common are:
HEPA Filters (High Efficiency Particulate Air): The air goes through a specially designed filter, cleaning 99.7% of the pollutants from the air. To understand how the HEPA process works, imagine a filter that only allows very tiny particles to pass through. If you placed a single sheet of this HEPA paper in front of a fan, very little air would be able to pass because of the small size of the holes.
Ionic Indoor Pollution Air Purifiers works by causing particles in the air to have a slight charge, particles are attracted to either a metal plate or to surfaces in the area. Most people are unaware that there are at least 4 different types of ionic air purifier in use today.
Ionizers have been around for many years. Have you ever felt like getting outside to get a breath of fresh air? Interestingly enough, some scientists point to +/- ions as part of the reason for outside air "feeling right". Combined with other methods, it can be extremely effective.
Carbon air purifiers: Activated carbon air filters consist of a system of pores that are tiny in size. These pores are highly absorbent, chemically reacting to particles that pass through them and the particles and odors actually bond with the carbon. Note that most carbon activated devices also incorporate HEPA technology, thereby combining the advantages of both types of technology
Ultra-violet Indoor Pollution Air Purifiers work by passing a ultra-violet beam through the air, which damages the DNA of biological pollutants affecting their reproduction system.
Ozone is a highly reactive oxidant that destroys certain bacteria, chemicals, bacteria and chemicals. Ozone Air Purifiers also reduce gases, odors, VOCs, and microorganisms.
It is no hidden fact that our air is becoming more and more polluted. Cars, the burning of fossil fuels, cooking indoors, global warming, and pets can do their share in polluting the air we breathe. Checking duct cleaning supply for homeowners is crucial. It's especially important for those who suffer from allergies and asthma. It can be a matter of life and death in some cases if a person with one of these conditions is forced to live in a home with dirty supply ducts. Also, mold spores can form in the vents and exchanges in a homes heating and air system which can cause health issues galore.
Can I Clean Ducts Myself or Do I have to Hire Someone?
Most people when they think about air duct cleaning always think about hiring a company. However, homeowners are able to find the duct cleaning supplies necessary to do the job themselves. Here is a list of just of the duct cleaning supply equipment homeowners can purchase to do their own ducts:
- Revolution Rods
- Rod Cases
- Duct Adaptors
- Small, Medium, and Large built brushes
- Drill drive adaptors
- Air Lines
- Air Wands
- Air Control Valves
- Airflow Regulators
- Viper fittings and heads
- Whip Material
- Support Blow
These are just a few of the pieces of equipment that duct cleaning suppliers offer homeowners. The elbow grease is left up to you, and you have the satisfaction of know you are taking charge of the air your family breathes. You can have peace of mind knowing you have taken the steps necessary to help asthmas and allergy sufferers in your home breathe better.
The Duct Cleaning Supply May be the Culprit
Sometimes the duct cleaning supply of your system is the culprit of your problems. It is important to check the exchanges thoroughly to make sure they are free of dust, debris, mold spores, water, and any other obstruction or pollutant. This will not only help everyone to breathe better, but it will keep the house cleaner meaning less time spent dusting in the long run. Sometimes it's amazing the sizable amounts of dust that will come out during a thorough duct cleaning! Most homes have several feet of duct work, so there are many areas where dust and debris can get caught in the heating and air system.
Important Things to Do and Remember when Cleaning Ducts
Your ductwork may be filled with unidentified flora and fauna that you don't recognize. Given your lack of knowledge on what these pollutants may be you need to protect yourself during the removal process. Here are some important things to remember while cleaning ducts:
- Always wear a protective mask over your mouth and nose, so you don't breath in molds or bacteria
- Gloves are essential when scooping out dust and debris from the ducts
- Keep arms and legs covered to minimize exposure to allergens and pollutants
- Try to have family members out of the house while the duct cleaning is taking place
- Keep children away from the area and especially those who suffer with allergies and asthma
- Ventilate the home by opening windows or patio doors to give the place a good airing out
- Be careful with the ductwork-don't jam the cleaning tools in too hard as it may do damage
- Remember that duct cleaning is not a one time deal-it needs to be done on a periodic or as needed basis especially if pets or people suffering from breathing conditions live in the home
Both Margarita Schwartzman & Amy Nutt are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Margarita Schwartzman has sinced written about articles on various topics from Air Purifier Cleaners, Allergies and Mobile Phone Reviews. Learn more about and how you can protect yourself from harmful viruses, bacteria and molds.The author is the owner of. Margarita Schwartzman's top article generates over 49500 views. to your Favourites.
Amy Nutt has sinced written about articles on various topics from Culture and Society, Recreation and Sports and Women. Heat Seal Equipment is a company providing. Amy Nutt's top article generates over 368000 views. to your Favourites.