Indoor Air Quality FAQs

Indoor air quality is the term used to describe how the air inside a home or building can affect the health and comfort of a person.

There isn’t a single test for indoor air quality. However, you can use a variety of monitors to help you track air quality with regard to particulates, temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide, and more. You should also have radon and carbon monoxide detectors in your home to detect any problems with these potentially lethal odorless gases.

A variety of factors can influence air quality including temperature, poor ventilation, humidity, chemical exposure, water damage, mold, dust and debris, and more.

If the air quality in your home is poor, you may notice that you or another member of your family starts to experience symptoms such as: • Headaches • Nausea • Respiratory problems; worsening respiratory problems in those with pre-existing conditions like allergies or asthma • Shortness of breath • Eye, nose, skin, and throat irritations • Sinus congestion • Sneezing and coughing

Since there are so many different kinds of air quality monitors, it is a good idea to speak to a professional HVAC technician about the monitor you own or are considering for your home. A Cates Heating and Cooling technician can give you some good options for air quality monitors and better explain how they work.

Often, you can tell that it is too humid based on your comfort level. However, you might start to notice condensation build-up on windows and other surfaces of your home when humidity levels are too high. Additionally, you might notice mold growth. You can purchase a humidity sensor to tell you when your home is too humid if you are unsure.

The most common causes of air quality issues include poor ventilation, poor home hygiene, lack of fresh air, and humidity.

Again, there are many different ways to improve indoor air quality. Check out our Improving Air Quality Guide for more information on the subject.