What is Dust Made of and How Does It Affect Your Indoor Air Quality?

June 09, 2016

According to an urban legend, dust is made up of human skin. Of course in reality, it’s not true. Although human skin does make up some of what is dust, dust is actually various things. So what exactly is dust made of and how is it hurting your indoor air quality?

The Source

There are only two places that dust can form from, indoors and outdoors, and we are the culprits that are walking dust inside from the outdoors. The outdoor part of dust consists of soil particles and pollen brought in on our shoes or through open doors and windows. This adds up to about two-thirds of the dust in your interior.

The indoor source of your dust is a number of assorted things. A tiny part of which is, in fact, human skin. A majority of it is fibers from your carpet, furniture or bedding, and if you own a pet, there is also some pet dander and fur too.

Dust Mites

Whenever we talk about dust, we must also talk about dust mites. Dust mites are little arachnids and their main food source is dead human skin cells and they make up a majority of dust. Dust mite droppings are the top cause of allergy and asthma symptoms according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Dust mites also prosper in humidity, so by upholding a properly humidified home, you’re able to cushion their impact.

What Can You Do?

Lennox provides a number of products that improve your indoor air quality. We carry a PureAirTM air purification system which is the only single indoor air quality system that battles all three classes of contaminants. We also have whole-home ventilation systems which transports fresh air into today’s tightly sealed homes. And, of course, we have a number of whole-home humidity control options.

Your indoor air quality is crucial to us. We will work with you to keep your home environment as excellent as possible. If you have any questions about your air quality or anything related to the comfort of your home, our professionals are just a phone call away. We make it easy to schedule an appointment with us by giving us a call at 715-301-0256.