If up to 70% of our time is spent indoors, and indoor air can actually be up to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air - what is actually in the air?
One consideration of today is NOx emissions, especially in urban areas - these are present almost everywhere and have harmful effects on our health, we're breaking down everything you need to know about protecting yourself against pollution...
What is NOx?
Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) is a pollution caused by the combustion of fuels and namely by road traffic. Appliances inside the home such as gas stoves and heaters also produce NOx emissions. People who live in urban or highly populated areas may be exposed to higher levels of NOx which impacts not only being outside their home, but can travel inside via windows, doors and even ventilation systems providing replacement air.
How does NOx impact our health?
Multiple studies have shown us that nitrogen oxide (NO2) has negative effects on our health including swelling of tissue in the lungs and throat, and can worsen respiratory conditions such as asthma.
The UK Government has set targets to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides by 55% compared to emissions in 2005 by 2020 and in each subsequent year, up to 2029 (and by 73% compared to emissions in 2005 by 2030).
How can we reduce exposure inside our homes?
Air Purifiers offer in room filtration of a range of indoor pollutants from VOC's to toxic gases such as NOx. These can be placed in each room, and based on their performance can reduce exposure. It is recommended that in urvan areas to keep opening windows to a minimum, especially during rush hours. Investing in ventilation, or ensuring ventilation systems are regularly serviced will ensure good movement and extraction of air. Home ventilation systems such as MVHR that bring in replacement air from outside offer a range of suppy air filter options that can target dust, fine partciulate, pollen, pet dander and even NOx gases.
Mitsuibishi have launched a MVHR system with integrated NOX filters, offering whoel house ventilation with the highest filtration performance.
NOx Filtration - What's the difference?
Particulate filters are very common for ventilation systems and they can help target airborne particles such as dust, they will not however target toxic NOx gases.
Activated Carbon filters are the best option for gas filtration such as NOx and are available for air purifiers and ventilation systems. They are made form coconut shells, coal and wood and the high porosity surface area allows it to capture and remove the gases from the air that is inside your home.
Can I get MVHR In My Existing Home?
Yes! MVHR can be installed in any home, and is suitable for retrofit projects.
I'm Worried NOx Is Affecting My Health, But MVHR Isn't An Option For Me
If MVHR isn't something that is available for you, there are options that can help improve your indoor air quality.
Air Purifiers - They can help to improve the air quality in specific rooms in your home, say you want to leave your windows open during the day during the summer, you can use an air purifier at night to help keep your air comfortable while you sleep.
MEV - This is an alternative to MVHR. It is cheaper and easier to install, it doesn't have filters, but it does keep a continuous airflow around your home which can help keep your indoor air quality healthier.
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