Red Alert on Household Products

On a daily basis, over 90% of the Earth’s populace are exposed to unsafe levels of pollution. A new study suggests this high level of contamination may be caused by household products.

More and more of us are taking steps in the right direct to cut air pollution. We’re installing solar panels on our roofs, buying electric cars and using public transport when possible. All of these changes make a positive difference, but what about less obvious changes?

According to a new study, a whole range of household products such as cleaning supplies and personal care products, release harmful pollutants. Although considerably less, these products are thought to release contaminants on par with cars and other vehicles.

Where and how do these harmful pollutants exist? Volatile Organic Compounds, known as VOCs for short, are released through the combustion of motor fuels and everyday household products. These products vary and include many cleaning agents – bleach, soap, air fresheners, as well as beauty products – soap, perfume, deodorant etc.

Research already states how dangerous it is for humans to inhale these VOCs, but now there is another problem on our hands; the creation of ozone. When VOCs interact with other gases, it creates ozone and other particulate matter. The transformation makes for a deadly combination, more dangerous than ever before.

A research team in the US found that household products only account for 4% of consumer use, compared to 47% of petrol consumption. Although over 10x less, household products contribute to just under 40% of the VOCs in the air.

Believe or not, this is good news as we can see we are reducing transport-related pollution. However, it also highlights that we’re going in the wrong direction with household products pollutants.

With that in mind, who and what can help solve indoor air pollution?

The solution is the Ingenious Air® Small Duct System. This intelligent climate control system has an optional high specification air purification module which removes harmful pollutants from all of the VOCs above, and more. It also removes disease-causing viruses and bacteria, allergens, dust and odours.

Additionally, the system can add up to 100% fresh air ventilation with heat recovery ventilation. This can further improve air quality and save energy. At the same time, it provides a safe and comfortable indoor environment with clean, purified air.

Reference: Environmental Technology. (2018). How Much Do Household Products Contribute to Air Pollution? Retrieved 14 March, 2018.