The Importance of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

Chris Leyenaar
November 20
3 min read
Group of employees in a conference room

Key Takeaways

  •  Poor indoor air quality can harm health — triggering allergies, cardiovascular and respiratory issues— while also reducing comfort and driving up property‑maintenance costs. 
  • Common pollutants (VOCs from paints and cleaners, fine dust particulates, mould spores, pet dander, and combustion byproducts)  
  • Effective IAQ improvement combines proper ventilation, filtration, humidity control, and source reduction. 
  • If problems persist or hidden hazards are suspected, call a professional.  

Most of our time is spent indoors — at home, at work or at school. But have you ever thought about the air you’re breathing inside those walls? Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) plays a big role in your health, comfort and even the condition of your home. 

Exposure to pollutants can trigger allergies, asthma and other respiratory issues. Long-term exposure — especially to fine particles — has been linked to heart problems and respiratory diseases. Clean air supports better sleep, fewer headaches and sharper focus. In workplaces, improved ventilation can boost productivity by up to 11%. It’s not just about health — poor IAQ can lead to mould growth, damage your HVAC system and raise energy costs. Protecting the air inside means protecting your comfort, your health and your home.  

Common indoor pollutants

The air in your home can be affected by more than you think. Here are some of the most common indoor air pollutants:

Harmful fumes from paint, cleaners and furniture

These often come from chemicals known as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which are released into the air — sometimes for days — after using: 

  • Paints and finishes: Fresh coats of paint, sealants or varnishes can continue to emit fumes long after drying, affecting air quality in newly painted rooms. 
  • Cleaning sprays and air fresheners: Many contain harmful chemicals and solvents like formaldehyde or benzene, which can irritate eyes, noses and throats — especially when used in enclosed spaces. 
  • New furniture or flooring: Items made with glues, resins or composite wood can release VOCs into the air when first brought home. To reduce exposure, consider opening windows and letting the space air out.  

Smoke and cooking fumes

Daily activities can add smoke and tiny particles to your indoor space, especially when: 

  • Frying, grilling or toasting food: These cooking methods release fine particles and grease into the air that can linger without proper ventilation. 
  • Burning candles or incense: Scented or paraffin-based candles can release soot and trace chemicals as they burn. 
  • Smoking indoors: Tobacco smoke is one of the biggest sources of indoor pollutants that can build up significantly over time. 

Tiny dust particles

Dust builds up quickly — and pets can bring in more than just fur: 

  • Pet dander: Tiny flakes of skin or hair that can trigger allergies or asthma symptoms. 
  • Pollen: Often tracked in on clothing or shoes, pollen can settle on surfaces and re-enter the air when disturbed. 
  • Household dust: Fibres, dirt and debris airborne contaminants by walking, vacuuming or airflow. 

Mould and mildew

Too much indoor moisture can lead to: 

  • Mould spores: Common in damp areas like bathrooms, basements and around leaky pipes. They can spread quickly and cause musty odours or health issues. 
  • Mildew: Usually appears as a flat, powdery or fuzzy growth on windows, tubs or tiles — often where condensation collects or there is poor ventilation. 

Strategies to improve indoor air quality

Let fresh air in

Run exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms and consider adding timers so they run consistently. For a permanent solution, consider an ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilator) or HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator), which bring in fresh air without losing cold or hot air. 

Balance the humidity

Keep indoor humidity between 40–60% to stay comfortable and help prevent mould. Use a dehumidifier in damp areas like basements, and a humidifier during dry months when the humidity level is low. For consistent comfort throughout the house, consider a whole-home humidifier.  

Cut down on indoor pollutant concentration

Reduce indoor pollution at the source by choosing low-VOC paints and cleaners, and keeping your home smoke-free.

Use the right filters

Upgrading your air filters is one of the easiest ways to improve the air you breathe. A high-quality filter can help trap dust, pollen, pet dander and other small particles that affect your health and comfort. 

When choosing a filter, look for a MERV rating between 6 and 11 for effective everyday protection. You can also use portable air purifiers with built-in filters to freshen up smaller rooms, or consider UV light technology to help reduce germs in the air.  

Need a replacement? Get your filters delivered directly to your door with Enercare Shop. 

When to call in the Experts?

Clean air isn’t a luxury — it’s part of a healthy, comfortable home. If you’re dealing with indoor air pollution, or just want peace of mind, it might be time to get a professional assessment. 

Our Enercare Experts can help you find the right solutions for your home — from ventilation and humidity control to air purification and filtration. Because the air your family breathes should always feel just as safe and comfortable as your home.