Urban tales and various internet pages might tell you that dust is made up of human skin, but that is not totally accurate. Skin makes up a very small percentage of dust, but it is in reality a plethora of things. If it’s not skin, what is dust comprised of and how is dust affecting your home’s indoor air quality?
Sources
Dust in your home comes from two places, outdoors or indoors. The dust from the outdoors is brought in by humans. This dust consists of soil or pollen that is brought in on our clothing or through open windows. The dust brought in from the outside is about two-thirds of the dust in our homes.
Dust originated indoors is made of a number of different culprits. A very minimal portion is really human skin. The majority of indoor dust is made up of furniture and carpet fibers and, if you have a pet, pet dander and fur.
Dust Mites
Where there is dust there is also dust mites. If you’re feeling brave, a swift search online will show you what they look like. If you’re not feeling so bold, picture a tiny arachnid that’s main source of food is dead human skin cells. Dust mites make up a large portion of dust and their droppings are the number one cause of asthma and allergy symptoms according to a study published by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. While they are indulging on dead skin cells they are thriving in humidity. Preserving the proper humidity of your home can minimize the impact of dust mites.
What are the solutions?
Three Rivers Heating & Cooling has several of indoor air quality solutions and the professionals at Three Rivers Heating & Cooling in Portland can help you find the best choice for your home’s needs. We carry the a PureAirTM air purification system which fights off all three classes of contaminants and is the only single indoor air quality system to do so. We offer a wide-range of whole-home humidity control options to keep those dust mites at bay. We also offer whole-home ventilation systems which are helpful in bringing fresh air into today’s tightly sealed homes.
Our team at Three Rivers Heating & Cooling in Portland will work with you to keep you healthy and comfortable in your home. If you have any questions about improving your indoor air quality or anything home comfort related give us a call at 503-213-4433. We look forward to working with you.