PORTLAND, Ore. - Data in the newly released AirAdvice State of Our Indoor Air Report 2007 shows that 9 out of 10 homes have IAQ problems. The report’s findings are based on AirAdvice Inc.’s analysis of 49,130 indoor air quality tests conducted in homes across North America in cooperation with a network of more than 1,500 HVAC professionals.

Overall, 96.7 percent of all homes tested had at least one of six IAQ problems - particle allergens, chemical pollutants, carbon dioxide, temperature, humidity, and carbon monoxide.

Most homes had multiple indoor air problems. Eighty-three percent of all homes tested exhibited two or more of the six problem types; nearly half (49.8 percent) had three or more problems; 18.9 percent had four or more.

“The data clearly shows us that there are a great many people out there are likely to be living in a home with poor indoor air quality,” said Jim Crowder, AirAdvice CEO. “Day in and day out, they and their families may be breathing unhealthy air. This points to the tremendous opportunity for the HVAC industry to help these people. No one is in a better position than the HVAC contractor to find and fix indoor air quality problems in the home.”

The report gives HVAC contractors detailed statistics and information on IAQ problems, as well as information for contractors’ customers. Highlights from the 28-page report include:

• The most common IAQ problem in North American homes is particle allergens (e.g., dust, dander, pollen, spores, bacteria, and other airborne pollutants). Over 91 percent of homes tested showed elevated particle allergen levels.

• Chemical pollutant (volatile organic compound) problems were the second-most frequent type of problem found. Elevated chemical pollutant levels were found in 7 out of 10 homes (70 percent). Some chemical pollutants are known carcinogens (cancer-causing).

• Carbon dioxide, temperature, and humidity levels were outside recommended ranges in many homes - in 45 percent, 30 percent, and 49 percent of cases, respectively.

• Carbon monoxide, a clear, odorless, and potentially deadly gas, was found at elevated levels in 2 percent of homes.

“This report is a tool for contractors to help their customers understand why healthy indoor air is so important for their well-being and comfort,” said Lucas Klesch, AirAdvice senior IAQ chemist. “Besides making people aware of just how seriously prevalent indoor air problems are and how these problems affect them, the report explains how uncovering and resolving IAQ problems creates a healthier, more comfortable indoor environment and helps cut energy costs, too. The report is a great resource for any contractor interested in growing their IAQ business.”

The 28-page AirAdvice State of Our Indoor Air Report 2007 is available for download at www.airadvice.com/company_info/publications.html. Contractors may also visit www.airadvice.com for additional IAQ resources and information.

Publication date:06/25/2007