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IndoorDoctor Says Winter Can Be the Most Effective Time to Test Indoor Air Quality

IndoorDoctor, a New England-based indoor air quality testing firm, has seen a steady rise in indoor air quality concerns during winter months. Simply put, more people spend their time indoors when it's cold outside. "As homes become more energy-efficient indoor air pollution will accumulate with greater concentration," says environmental engineer and company president Jeffrey Bradley.

Major contributors of indoor pollution include combustible heating sources and fireplaces, both of which emit miniscule particles that can deeply penetrate one's lungs and can cause or worsen respiratory disease. Dander from household pets can also amplify as conditions prevent them from spending significant time outdoors, resulting in greater prevalence of allergic symptoms. IndoorDoctor is able to measure and indentify such fine particulates using a handheld particle scanner in order to help families determine steps to reduce indoor air pollution.

Airborne fiberglass is another irritant that is overlooked. Often, people choose to exercise at home instead of outside or at the local health club when weather does not cooperate. Bradley notes that home gyms, especially when housed in the basement, can be dangerous due to exposed fiberglass, fine particulates from the furnace, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from stored chemicals, and higher mold spore levels. He cautions people who have placed treadmills and other exercise equipment in such areas to have the air quality checked to prevent adverse health reactions.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is one of the most common pollutants IndoorDoctor detects during cold months because homeowners keep their houses air-tight to reduce heat loss. Unfortunately, the common carbon monoxide meters sold to detect the lethal, colorless and odorless gas only register CO levels around 5 or 10 parts per million (ppm) -- a relatively significant amount. They do not detect trace levels of CO hat can lead to headaches, memory loss and fatigue. "We've had a number of clients experiencing long term acute carbon monoxide poisoning from CO levels around 2-4 ppm," Bradley notes. "Our specialized testing equipment will detect even minute levels of carbon monoxide that a typical home detector will not."

If you are concerned with the air quality in your home during these winter months, contact IndoorDoctor to schedule unbiased and independent air quality testing by calling 617-833-0202 or email jeff.bradley@indoordoctor.com.