The Connection Between Summer and Air Quality

Posted in Air Quality, on September 02, 2020

While indoor air quality is important all year long, you may be surprised to learn that summer air quality testing in Toronto often shows an increase in pollution greater than other times of the year. The increase in heat, humidity, and outdoor air quality alerts all play a part in your indoor air quality - but what’s the connection? Read on to learn more about indoor air quality testing in Toronto and how the summer heat can affect your home. 

The Connection Between Heat and Poor Air Quality

As the mercury rises, so does a number of indoor air quality issues. But why? One reason is that humidity, the amount of vaporized water that the air can hold, increases with heat. Humidity makes a room stuffy and causes condensation to form, which can lead to mold growth. Another reason is that many of us shut our windows and turned up the air conditioning - without fresh air, dirty HVAC systems will then recycle allergens and pollutants through the system all day, and harmful gasses like carbon monoxide can build up. 

How to Look for Poor Air Quality?

What are some of the signs of poor indoor air quality, and how do you look for them? 

• Check for mold growth in areas like the attic, basement, and bathroom. Mold indicates excess moisture or water leaks and can cause a musty odour and damage to your home.
• Clean frequently: Not only do dust mites live in furniture and bedding, but dust and other allergens can get stuck indoors and constantly trigger allergic reactions. Pollen blown in during the spring can be trapped inside once the windows close to keep summer heat out.  Dirty HVAC systems also stress your air conditioner and furnace, shortening their life span.
• Carbon monoxide and radon are odourless, colourless gasses that are commonly found during air quality testing in Toronto. Inadequate airflow can contribute to the build-up of these gasses, which kill thousands of people every year. Carbon monoxide alarms are available at hardware stores, but radon tests need to be performed by a professional. 
• More time spent indoors and out of the heat can also increase your exposure to poor air quality. Most of us spend up to 90% of our time indoors, which increases our exposure to indoor pollutants like formaldehyde, toluene, particulates, asbestos, and more.
• A lack of fresh air can result in feeling sick, sluggish, and headachy. With your home shut tightly, the same air is recycled all day long - an unhealthy loop that can aggravate allergies and keep you feeling unwell. 

How to Test for Poor Indoor Air Quality

At SafeAir, we have over a decade of experience performing indoor air quality testing in Toronto. Our tests are non-invasive, easy to perform and science-based, leading to impartial, precise results that can help you make positive choices for your environment. For more information on air quality testing in Toronto this summer, be in touch with us at 416-414-5690.