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Dirty Sock Syndrome And Other Indoor Air Quality Issues

Palm Air AC|14 March 2016

Have you ever heard of Dirty Sock Syndrome and other indoor air quality issues that could affect the health of those in your home? Unusual odors in your home are not just unpleasant, but they could also be a sign that your family and loved ones are breathing in unhealthy contaminants every single time they step through the door. From the moment you or a family member notices these unusual odors, it is important that you identify their source and start taking some steps to prevent the IAQ problems from spreading.

What is Dirty Sock Syndrome?

Dirty sock syndrome is a phrase that has been used for over 45 years to describe a very specific smell coming from an HVAC system. The term describes exactly what you would think: the smell of dirty socks or a dirty locker room found in a home with poor or decreased ventilation. Organic growth in the drain line and other pipes of your HVAC system cause the foul, moldy or mildew-like smell to filter through the air vents. To remedy the situation, a technician will come out for a maintenance check of the air conditioning unit. A dirty air filter can also be a source of indoor air quality issues in the home. Be sure to change the filter each month and use a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate arrestance) filter for the freshest, cleanest air possible.

Things That Cause Air Quality Issues

Pet Hair and Pet Dander

The hair and dander coming from our beloved pets is another source of poor indoor air quality. Again, a change of the air filter each month, (our Filter Club will take the guesswork out of remembering when it is time again) can do wonders for keeping the pet hair and dander at bay in the home. Air duct cleaning is another way to improve the quality of air inside your home when the pet hair and dander becomes too much. Also remembering to keep your pets clean, brushed and groomed can help improve indoor air quality.

Aerosol Sprays

Household cleaners, disinfectants, air fresheners, paint and paint strippers, and other products containing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are another source of indoor air quality issues. These products can cause eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches, loss of coordination and nausea, damage to the liver, kidneys and possible cause disease in humans and animals. Use these products only with proper ventilation (open windows) or look for products without VOCs.

Burning Smell

A slight burning smell after your heating or cooling systems are turned on for the first time is relatively common, but it is not something that should be taken lightly. In most cases, this is the dust burning off of the coils of the heat pump or furnace. When these smells linger, become pungent, or are accompanied by smoke, you should immediately evacuate your home and contact the fire department.

Sharp Electrical Smells

Some families will notice a sharp electrical odor in their home followed by the smell of burnt rubber or plastic. Much like the smell of burning dust, this is not an issue that should be ignored. In most cases, these smells are the result of one of the major components overheating and melting nearby material. Without immediate repairs, permanent damage could take place.

Improve Your Home’s Indoor Air Quality With Palm Air AC

Dirty Sock Syndrome and other indoor air quality issues are not cool! Our team can help you address all of these common air quality problems and come up with long-term solutions. If you have recently noticed any unusual smells in your home, then contact us today to schedule service with one of our certified technicians.