What Are VOCs? A Quick Guide

A Guide on Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and Its Relation to Air Quality

Has anyone ever wondered what VOCs are? Also known as "Volatile Organic Compounds," these organic substances originate from various sources and possess a high vapor pressure at room temperature. Both man-made and natural sources emit VOCs, contributing to the air we breathe, inside or outside our homes.

Surprisingly, everyday items such as furniture, cleaning products, and even printers have these compounds.

VOCs, though seemingly harmless, can significantly impact health along with surrounding air quality. But - in what way? Stay tuned, we've got interesting insights to share about VOCs.

Key Takeaways

• Gases derived from specific solids or liquids are known as volatile organic compounds or VOCs. They, unfortunately, can make the air inside and outside of buildings bad.
• Everyday items like makeup, candles, and building materials can make VOCs. But other known examples are cars and factories.
• VOCs can make the air inside buildings poor. Wherein people may experience discomfort and health issues when inhaling such compounds.
• Buying an air purifier is the most sensible way to reduce exposure to VOCs.

Everything We Know About These Compounds 

Remember when you stood in a freshly painted room or bought a brand-new can of paint? The unique aroma you smell is more than merely new paint; it's actually a release of certain airborne chemicals. These substances found in the formula of your paint then seep into the air and become a part of your surroundings.

But paint is not the only contributor to these airborne chemicals also known as VOCs. They are even found in many household items, including cleaning agents and beauty products.

Factories and cars emit VOCs, too, which are released to the outdoor air. Although they are invisible to the naked eye, these compounds still influence air quality and health.

In fact, regulatory bodies have established guidelines for permissible VOC levels in various products. However, these standards differ by product type and geographic region. For example, paint producers must control VOC levels in their offerings for them to pass the regulations.

Nevertheless, labels like low-VOC or zero-VOC don't guarantee the complete absence of these compounds. That’s whyit's vital to learn about the products in useand understand how they affect the air around us. After all, being informed empowers healthier decision-making for individuals and our environment.

Getting to Know the Sources of VOCs in the Environment

Like we mentioned earlier, everyday products such as paint or cleaning supplies add to VOC emissions, but they're not the only ones. Industrial outflows and vehicle exhaust play significant parts too. However, don't misunderstand VOCs as a problem exclusive to the outdoors.

Here are less obvious VOC sources you can find at home:

• Scented candles, cosmetics, and air fresheners actually contribute to VOC emissions.
• Building materials like sealants, adhesives, and certain treated woods are culprits as well.
• Office equipment, including printers and copiers, can release VOCs during operation.

Hence, our comfort and health may suffer from indoor air pollution, which VOCs could cause. This is mostly because such chemical contaminants are not just found in our homes but also frequently occur in our everyday surroundings.

Aside from our homes, workplaces are a common site for VOCs as well. Even in the most aesthetically pleasing offices, these compounds might be hidden. They can be found in carpets, paint on the walls, furniture, and cleaning products. And don't be fooled; even if you're not near the photocopier, VOCs can still silently infiltrate the air, reducing its quality and causing discomfort or health issues.

Schools are no different. What appears to be a neat room might be swarming with VOCs from paints, markers, and certain types of furniture. Take note that out of sight should not mean out of mind.

Awareness is crucial to combating this invisible enemy. Stay informed to stay safe. You can start by using a well-maintained air purifier from Filterbuy and regularly replacing its air filter to achieve its maximum potential. Then, make sure frequent cleaning and proper ventilation are followed to make a better indoor air environment. 

Knowing the Effects of VOCs on Health

Understanding VOCs in indoor settings is crucial. But learning about their specific health effects is also important. For example, short-term exposure to this compound may lead to eye and nasal irritation. Some even experience nausea and migraines. When you feel such discomfort, it might be due to VOCs, so be on the lookout for them.

Always remember that more severe symptoms are long-term risks. And prolonged exposure could lead to:

• Persistent respiratory problems
• Harm to your central nervous system
• Damage to your liver or kidneys

These potential dangers require attention, similar to inviting a predatory creature into your home and expecting no harm. Damage may not manifest immediately, but over time, the severity can increase. This issue extends beyond feeling slightly unwell today; it involves safeguarding your future health with well-maintained HVAC systems. As soon as you have these symptoms, have them checked by a medical professional to avoid worst-case scenarios.

Simple Strategies for Reducing Exposure

Buying an air purifier is the most sensible way to protect your health while lowering your exposure to VOCs. These gadgets are no longer limited to allergy relief. They can filter out many common VOCs, thereby improving air quality inside homes or workplaces.

Going for a green building is a plan for living a better life. Whether you're planning to restore a place or build a new one, choosing materials that do not release bad stuff into the air is wise. For example, when picking paints, go for ones that say low-VOC or VOC-free.

Next, consider flooring alternatives like bamboo or cork. These are also deemed eco-friendly, as they emit fewer VOCs than conventional materials.

Lastly, assuring that living spaces are well-ventilated is another important measure. Beyond merely opening windows, installing ventilation systems you can buy at Filterbuy can help. Such systems exchange indoor and outdoor air, leading to effective dilution of VOC concentration.

Then, always remember to change your air filters regularly. Doing this, plusroutine maintenance of your units will promote HVAC efficacy and better indoor air quality, which is what we want to reduce the exposure of VOCs in your home or workplace. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is VOCs and why is it harmful?

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are harmful chemicals that easily evaporate into the air at room temperature. They can cause a range of health problems, including short-term symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and respiratory issues, as well as long-term conditions like cancer. Prolonged exposure to high levels of VOCs can be hazardous, particularly in enclosed spaces.

What is an example of a VOC?

One example of a VOC is formaldehyde, commonly found in household products such as paints, furniture, and cleaning supplies. Formaldehyde evaporates into the air, contributing to indoor air pollution and potentially posing significant health risks.

What causes high VOC in homes?

High VOC levels in homes are often caused by using various household products, including paints, cleaning supplies, air fresheners, and even new furniture. Poor ventilation can exacerbate the problem by trapping VOCs indoors, leading to elevated exposure.

What is meant by volatile organic compounds?

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that readily evaporate into the air at room temperature, releasing gases into the environment. These compounds can be found in various household products, contributing to indoor air pollution and potentially causing health issues.

How to get rid of VOCs in house?

To reduce VOCs in your home, increase ventilation by opening windows and using exhaust fans. Consider using air purifiers equipped with activated carbon filters, and opt for low-VOC or VOC-free paints, cleaning products, and furniture. Regularly clean and maintain your HVAC system with the help of Filterbuy to improve air circulation.

Which common household item gives off VOCs?

Paint is a common household item that emits VOCs. Other items that can release harmful chemicals into the air include cleaning products, air fresheners, and new furniture.

What is one of the most common VOCs?

Formaldehyde is one of the most common VOCs found in homes. It is present in building materials, furniture, and household products like paints and adhesives, contributing to indoor air pollution.

Is mold a VOC?

While mold is not a VOC, it can release microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs) as it grows. These compounds contribute to the musty smell often associated with mold and can cause health problems. 

What are the symptoms of exposure to VOC?

Symptoms of VOC exposure can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, eye and throat irritation, and respiratory problems. Long-term exposure may increase the risk of severe conditions like liver and kidney damage or even cancer. 

Do air purifiers remove VOCs?

Yes, air purifiers with activated carbon filters can help remove VOCs from the air. Standard HEPA filters are ineffective against VOCs, but activated carbon absorbs the chemicals, reducing their presence indoors. 

How do I block VOCs?

To block VOCs, use products labeled as low-VOC or VOC-free. Increase ventilation in your home, use air purifiers with activated carbon filters, and avoid storing chemicals like paints or solvents indoors. Regular cleaning and proper HVAC maintenance can also help reduce VOC levels. 

Why are VOCs worse at night?

VOCs may seem worse at night because homes are often more closed off, with windows and doors shut, reducing ventilation. Additionally, lower temperatures at night can slow the dissipation of VOCs, causing them to build up indoors and leading to higher concentrations.