What Is Dust Made of and How Does It Affect Your Indoor Air Quality?

Urban fables and other internet searches might tell you that dust is made up of human skin, but that is not entirely factual. The skin makes up a very small percentage of dust, but it is in reality a combination 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 living space originates from two places, outdoors or indoors. The dust from the outdoors is carried in by people. This dust consists of soil or pollen that is attached to 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 and is made of several diverse things. A very minimal component 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 courageous, a quick search online will show you what they look like. If you’re not feeling so bold, picture a tiny arachnid that’s the first source of food is dead human skin cells. Dust mites make up a major portion of dust and their droppings are the leading cause of asthma and allergy symptoms according to a study completed by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. While they are dining on dead skin cells they are thriving in humidity. Preserving the ideal humidity of your home can reduce the influence of dust mites.

What Are the Solutions?

Winters Heating and Cooling have a variety of indoor air quality solutions and the professionals at Winters Heating and Cooling in Franklin & South Indy can help you find the best choice for your home’s needs. We carry the 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 Winters Heating and Cooling in Franklin & South Indy 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 317-406-5382. We look forward to working with you.