VOCs

VOCs, Volatile Organic Compounds, are carbon-based chemical compounds that tend to evaporate easily in the air at room temperature (20°C/68° F). Prolonged exposure to VOCs can cause mild problems such as eye, nose and throat irritation, but also more serious issues such as respiratory or central nervous system problems. Monitoring VOC levels is therefore essential for assessing indoor environmental well-being.

VOC concentrations vary throughout the day depending on temperature, humidity, and emission from individual sources.

The main sources of VOCs are cosmetic or deodorizing products, furnishing and construction materials (which can emit even for months, or even years in the case of formaldehyde, from being placed!), people through breathing, heating devices, cleaning materials and various products (e.g., glues, adhesives, solvents, paints, detergents...), recently treated clothes in laundries, cigarette smoke or the use of candles and perfumers, but also work tools such as printers and copiers. Finally, placing the device near air intakes near high-pollution areas (e.g., busy streets, underground parking lots, garages) can also result in significant penetration of VOCs from outside.

It is important to remember that there are many variables in a home that affect their concentration and ability to dilute concentrations over time, starting with the layout of spaces and the design of air recirculation.

Eteria helps you reduce the concentration of VOCs, but it is crucial to have other tricks to improve it as well, such as ventilating often and avoiding the use of chemicals or room fragrances, or preferring low-emitting products.

Try to keep the level below 1 mg/m3!