INDOOR AIR QUALITY Many everyday, unsuspecting household items contribute to poor indoor air quality. Compounds found in carpeting, furniture, upholstery and drapery fabric constantly "off-gas" or emit fumes. Other sources of pollutants can include cleaning agents, paints and personal care products. Newer more energy efficient homes do not breathe like older homes. Things like weather stripping and storm doors keep indoor air in and outdoor air out. This provides energy savings, but the limited exchange of outdoor and indoor air can mean a build-up of contaminants inside the home. The American Lung Association estimates that most people spend 90% of their time indoors, so clean indoor air is important. Allergies and asthma are two health problems that can be helped with clean indoor air. When airborne irritants are removed, allergy and asthma sufferers often find relief from their symptoms. Even healthy people who have never suffered from allergies can benefit from clean indoor air. Dust, smoke and other particles float around in the air causing your drapes and furniture to gather dust. By removing airborne dust particles, you reduce the amount of exposure they have on your respiratory system. Some particles are so small they may escape through the vacuum or never land on a surface. To capture these particles, products such as electronic air cleaners and high-efficiency filters can be beneficial by removing dust, dirt and pollen. Be sure to ask about our humidifiers and air cleaners.