Reducing Exposure to Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) In Your Home?

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are chemicals emitted from everyday household products that impact your home’s air quality. The lack of adequate ventilation and filtration can make VOC concentration levels up to ten times higher indoors. Minimizing the VOC levels in your home can be essential to safeguarding you and your family’s health.

Sources of Indoor VOCs

Paints, varnishes and cleaning supplies – including detergents and disinfectants – often contain solvents that release VOCs during application and drying. Even the items you might least expect, such as air fresheners, dry-cleaned clothes and printer ink cartridges, are known for rapidly emitting VOCs. Conversely, carpets, pressed-wood furniture and synthetic flooring materials can release VOCs over time.

While indoor sources are a significant contributor to indoor air pollution, exterior sources of VOCs from traffic emissions and nearby construction sites can also seep into your home through open windows and poorly sealed doors.

Health Effects of VOCs

The consequences of VOC exposure can be more severe than just temporary irritation to the eyes and nose. While short-term exposure can lead to headaches, dizziness and fatigue, long-term exposure can inflict more severe symptoms, from exacerbated respiratory problems to liver, kidney and central nervous system damage.

Steps You Can Take to Limit Your Home’s VOC Levels

Choose Low-VOC Products

Opt for paints, cleaning supplies and household items labeled as low-VOC or VOC-free. Many manufacturers offer products with reduced emissions without compromising performance. Select building materials and furnishings that meet low-VOC standards when renovating or decorating.

Air Purifiers with Activated Carbon Filters

Invest in air purifiers equipped with activated carbon filters, which can trap and remove VOCs from the air. Place air purifiers strategically near items or areas with higher VOC concentrations, such as new furniture or recently painted rooms.

Be Careful With Your Choice of Indoor Plants

While indoor plants can improve your home’s air quality by absorbing certain pollutants, some plants, like the Areca Palm and Weeping Fig, can release VOCs. If you’re concerned about your home’s VOC levels, you should carefully research your choices and find plants known to have a positive impact on indoor air quality.

Regular Cleaning

Dust and clean your home regularly to remove settled particles using products with low or no VOC content. Vacuum carpets with a HEPA filter to capture particles effectively, and wipe surfaces with microfiber cloths to trap and remove dust.

Choose VOC-Free or Low-VOC Furniture

When purchasing furniture, opt for pieces made from natural materials or those labeled as VOC-free or low-VOC. Furniture made with solid wood or metal releases fewer VOCs than pieces made with pressed wood or particleboard.

Control Humidity

Maintain optimal indoor humidity levels to discourage the release of VOCs. Use dehumidifiers in damp areas (e.g., your basement) to prevent mold, which is responsible for especially harmful VOC emissions.

Select VOC-Reducing Building Materials

When building or renovating, choose construction materials that are designed to emit fewer VOCs, such as low-VOC adhesives, sealants and insulation materials.

VOC Monitoring Devices

Consider using VOC monitoring devices to assess the air quality in your home. These devices can provide real-time information about VOC levels, helping you identify specific sources and limit exposure.

Proper Ventilation

Good ventilation throughout your home is key. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to expel indoor air pollutants. When weather permits, open windows and doors to promote natural air exchange, helping to lower the concentration of VOCs indoors. Consider using window fans to enhance airflow.

HVAC System Maintenance

If the weather makes it difficult to air out your home, the best way to ventilate your home is through the installation of reliable and effective IAQ HVAC technologies. Maintaining your HVAC system regularly, including changing air filters and cleaning ducts, can ensure it properly circulates the air, diluting VOCs and preventing them from accumulating in high concentrations.

Hire the HVAC Team Arlington Homeowners Have Depended on For Over 60 Years

Tom’s Mechanical Inc. provides reliable HVAC system maintenance for thousands of homeowners in the Arlington area. We’ll quickly and thoroughly service your system to ensure your home is well-protected against harmful VOCs. To schedule an HVAC maintenance visit with a trusted team of experts, give us a call at (817) 277-4493 or explore our indoor air quality page today.