Understanding Particulate Matter and Indoor Air Quality

Written By jody powell

When we think about air pollution, most of us picture smoggy city skylines or industrial smokestacks. But did you know that some of the most harmful air you breathe may actually be inside your own home? One of the biggest contributors to poor indoor air quality is particulate matter (PM)—tiny particles suspended in the air that can affect your health in serious ways.

What Is Particulate Matter?

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), particulate matter—also called PM or particle pollution—is a complex mixture of solid and/or liquid particles suspended in air. These particles come in different sizes, shapes, and chemical compositions. EPA is especially concerned about particles 10 micrometers in diameter or smaller (PM10) because they are small enough to be inhaled into the lungs. Even more concerning are particles 2.5 micrometers and smaller (PM2.5), which can penetrate deep into the respiratory system and even enter the bloodstream.

How Does Particulate Matter Affect Indoor Air Quality?

Particulate matter isn’t just an outdoor issue. It’s found in all indoor environments, and in some cases, indoor PM levels can actually be higher than outdoor levels. Everyday activities such as cooking, burning candles, using fireplaces, smoking, or even vacuuming can release particles into the air. Poor ventilation and tightly sealed modern homes can trap these pollutants indoors, allowing them to accumulate.

Because the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) are designed to protect against outdoor particle pollution, there is less information about the specific impacts of indoor PM. However, we know that exposure indoors can be just as concerning—if not more—given how much time we spend inside our homes.

Health Effects of Particulate Matter

The health risks of particle pollution are well-documented for outdoor air and apply indoors as well. Once inhaled, PM can impact both the heart and lungs. Short-term effects may include:

  • Irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat

  • Coughing, sneezing, or shortness of breath

  • Worsened asthma or allergy symptoms

Long-term exposure is linked to more serious health concerns such as:

  • Reduced lung function

  • Heart disease

  • Chronic respiratory conditions

  • Premature death in people with existing health problems

Children, older adults, and those with pre-existing conditions are especially vulnerable.

Taking Steps Toward Cleaner Indoor Air

While we can’t eliminate particulate matter entirely, there are steps you can take to reduce exposure:

  • Improve ventilation.

  • Avoid smoking indoors.

  • Limit the use of candles and fireplaces.

  • Regularly clean floors and surfaces with a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter.

  • Consider investing in a high-quality air purification system designed to capture ultrafine particles. The Super V does just that! And protects the HVAC system.

👉 Breathing clean air is more than just a comfort—it’s a foundation for better health. By understanding what particulate matter is and how it affects indoor air, you can take meaningful steps to protect yourself and your loved ones.

jody powell