The qualities of good indoor air have very little to offer: it is odorless, colorless, and tasteless. It is a cocktail of gases and particles that we breathe in almost around the clock.

The air itself is composed of nitrogen (78%), oxygen (21%), and other gases (1%), including argon and carbon dioxide. In addition to gases, the air contains fine particles such as soot and metals.

In addition to the basic components of air, indoor air normally contains some physical, gaseous, and particulate pollutants, such as:

• Particulate matter
  • Particles smaller than 2,5 micrometers, produced by transport, energy production, wood burning, etc.
• Radon
  •  A radioactive gas rising from the ground
• Microbes
  • Including fungi, bacteria, and viruses. Microbes can proliferate through moisture damage and cause health problems. It is worth noting that not all microbes are harmful to health.
• Inorganic fibers
  • Glass and mineral wool fibers, which can come from, for example, old and broken acoustic panels.

• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
  • Harmful compounds released from building and interior materials, detergents, and some microbial growths.

• Formaldehyde
  • A pungent smelling gas released from, for example, furniture adhesives, furnishing textiles, and candle burning.
• Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)
  • Compounds resulting from the uneven combustion of fuels.
• Allergens
  • The most common indoor air allergens are pollen, dust mites, and animal dander particles.
• Dust and dirt
  • Particles released from people, animals, and surfaces in the home.

The role of ventilation is to move pollutants out of the building and not to cause harm in quantities below the limit values. The indoor air in a dwelling should therefore be changed every two hours or so. Some pollutants, such as fine particles and compounds from combustion processes, are introduced into the indoor air from the outside. However, filtering the supply air keeps their concentration under control.

You can make a difference to the indoor air in your home by doing the following:

1. Make sure that the ventilation is adequate and filters are clean. Filters should be changed 2-4 times a year as needed.

2. Keep the humidity at the right level and adjust the ventilation according to the humidity load.

3. Keep an eye on the condition of your home and carry out regular maintenance.

4. Clean regularly – prefer allergy-labeled products with no added fragrances or colorings.

5. Choose low-emission building and furnishing products. Look out for the M1 rating, which indicates that the materials are odorless and low on emissions.

6. Reduce sources of pollution.

Take these steps to keep the indoor air in your home fresh and healthy.