Particle ID Testing: Protecting Your indoor air quality
Why a Particle ID Report Matters
A Particle ID report offers critical insights into the quality of air in your home or business, helping you determine if your filtration system effectively removes harmful particles. When particles are present in excess, it could signal an issue with your filtration, potentially impacting your health. Excess particles in the air have been linked to respiratory and allergic reactions, such as Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis (HP), a condition caused by inhaling particles like bacteria, fungi, and other allergens that inflame the lungs.
For those with asthma, allergies, or HP, controlling particle levels is essential. This report identifies the exact particles and their sizes, helping you understand what is in your air. Smaller particles pose a higher risk, as they can reach deep into the lungs, exacerbating health issues. The report also provides insights on how events like wildfires may have impacted your indoor air quality, especially important for residents in wildfire-prone regions.
What to Do if the Report Indicates High Particle Levels
The Particle ID report pinpoints potential contamination sources, from a malfunctioning filtration system to nearby industrial activity or HVAC issues. Here are strategies to improve your air quality:
- Routine Cleaning – Consistent cleaning reduces particle accumulation indoors.
- Filter Maintenance – Replace filters frequently, especially using a MERV 10 or higher, to effectively reduce particle levels.
- Duct Cleaning – Professional duct cleaning removes accumulated dust and allergens.
- HEPA Filtration – Installing a HEPA filtration system, though a higher-cost solution, is highly effective for high-particle environments.
Can a Particle ID Report Be Useful for Medical Consultations?
Yes! A Particle ID report is an excellent resource for consultations with allergists or respiratory specialists, providing detailed data on particle types and levels. This information helps doctors identify potential environmental triggers within your home or business.
When to Test for Particles
- Routine Testing – A yearly Particle ID test is recommended for most homes and businesses.
- Symptom Onset – If you experience symptoms like allergies, asthma, or notice dust buildup, another test can help pinpoint possible causes.
- Real Estate Transactions – A Particle ID test is a valuable addition when buying or selling a property, revealing filtration system fitness and overall air quality.
- Schools and Commercial Spaces – Health risks related to particle exposure affect all building types, and commercial or educational facilities can also benefit from air quality assessments.
Seasonal and Sample Considerations
While time of year generally doesn’t affect indoor particle readings, outdoor samples may vary slightly during winter. Each Particle ID test requires at least one outdoor sample and two indoor samples, with an ideal sample per 1,000 square feet to ensure a thorough assessment.
Advanced Particle Identification
Our advanced analysis identifies over 40 different types of particles in your environment, giving you a detailed understanding of your air quality. Testing can be performed on both air and specific surfaces using approved media like Breeze E_TAPE. If you’ve recently submitted a mold sample, you may add a Particle ID test within two weeks to ensure continuity in your assessment.
Why Prioritize Particle Testing?
With asthma and allergy rates on the rise and indoor air quality ranked as a top health concern in the U.S., understanding what’s in your air is essential. Staying informed on particle levels and following recommended actions can help maintain a healthier environment for you and those around you.
Contact Us Today
Take control of your indoor air quality. Contact us to learn more about scheduling a Particle ID test for your home or business.
