Understanding VOCs: What Are They and Why Should You Care?

As a homeowner, you're likely concerned about the air quality inside your house. While radon often gets the spotlight (and for good reason!), there's another invisible threat lurking in many homes: Volatile Organic Compounds, or VOCs.

What Exactly ARE VOCs?

VOCs are a large group of carbon-containing chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature, releasing gases into the air. Think of that "new car smell" or the odor of fresh paint – those are VOCs at work! While some VOCs have noticeable odors, many are odorless, making them even more insidious.

Where Do VOCs Come From in Your Home?

The truth is, VOCs are everywhere! They're found in a surprising number of common household products and building materials. Here are some of the biggest culprits:

• Building Materials & Furnishings:

  • Paints, varnishes, and sealants

  • Adhesives and caulks

  • Flooring (especially new carpeting and vinyl)

  • Pressed wood products (plywood, particleboard, MDF) used in cabinetry and furniture

  • Upholstery and fabrics

• Cleaning & Personal Care Products:

  • Air fresheners and deodorizers

  • Cleaning sprays and disinfectants

  • Cosmetics and perfumes

  • Hairsprays and nail polish remover

• Hobbies & Other Sources:

  • Craft supplies (glues, markers)

  • Pesticides

  • Dry-cleaned clothing

  • Fuel oil, gasoline, and other petroleum products (especially if stored indoors or near living spaces)

Why Are VOCs a Concern for Your Health?

Exposure to VOCs can have a range of health effects, depending on the specific chemicals involved, the level of exposure, and individual sensitivity. Short-term effects can include:

• Eye, nose, and throat irritation

• Headaches

• Nausea

• Dizziness

• Allergic skin reactions

Long-term or high-level exposure to certain VOCs can lead to more serious health problems, including:

• Damage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system

• Some VOCs are suspected or known carcinogens (cancer-causing agents)

Children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory issues like asthma are often more susceptible to the negative effects of VOCs.

The Connection to Radon Mitigation (and Overall Indoor Air Quality)

While VOCs and radon are distinct issues, they both contribute to your home's overall indoor air quality. At Doctor Radon, our primary focus is on testing and mitigating radon gas, which is the 2nd leading cause of lung cancer. However, when we assess your home for radon, we're also thinking about the broader picture of indoor air pollutants.

Improving ventilation, which is often a component of radon mitigation strategies, can also help to reduce VOC levels. By creating a healthier airflow in your home, we can help dissipate these harmful gases.

What Can You Do About VOCs in Your Home?

Even without professional mitigation, there are steps you can take to reduce your exposure to VOCs:

1. Increase Ventilation: Open windows and doors, especially during and after activities that release VOCs (painting, cleaning). Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms.

2. Choose Low-VOC Products: Look for paints, flooring, and furniture labeled "low-VOC" or "no-VOC."

3. Read Labels Carefully: Be mindful of the ingredients in cleaning products, air fresheners, and personal care items.

4. Store Products Properly: Keep chemicals and solvents in well-ventilated areas, ideally outdoors or in a detached shed.

5. Don't Over-Purchase: Buy only what you need to avoid storing excess chemicals.

6. Properly Dispose of Unused Products: Follow local guidelines for hazardous waste disposal.

7. Maintain Your HVAC System: Regular filter changes can help improve overall air quality.