How to Test Household Air Quality
- 1
Window condensation can lead to mold.pluie image by Ingrid from Fotolia.com
Identify potential sources of indoor air pollution before conducting any testing. Look for moisture condensation on windows or walls; smelly or stuffy air; mold on walls, ceilings, carpets and household items; and dirty heating or cooling equipment. Smoking indoors or operating wood stoves or fireplaces that haven't been cleaned annually could present significant air pollution issues. - 2). Purchase a do-it-yourself air testing kit if you suspect significant air issues. Testing kits are available at most hardware stores or other retail outlets for $160 or less. Check the packaging to see how much square footage of testing it covers to be sure it meets your needs.
- 3). Conduct the air quality test according to manufacturer's instructions. The test will be most accurate if you concentrate on taking air samples closest to the suspected problem areas.
- 4
A lab will do the final analysis of your test.chemical laboratory image by Oleg Mitiukhin from Fotolia.com
Mail the completed air test to a testing lab. A suggested lab is usually listed on the kit's instructions, or could be found on an Internet search. After the lab has completed its testing, they will mail you a report of their findings.