How do Volatile Organic Compounds get into my home?

Volatile Organic Compounds are widely used as ingredients in household products. Paints, varnishes, and wax all contain organic solvents, as do many cleaning, disinfecting, cosmetic, degreasing, and hobby products. Fuels are made up of organic chemicals. All of these products can release organic compounds while you are using them, and, to some degree, when they are stored. Scientists have now discovered that molds and fungi also produce VOCs and related odors. As stated by Georgia Tech's Dr. Bayer, "As molds and fungi grow, they give off metabolic gases that contain VOC emissions."

What are the effects of VOC's on your health?

Eye, nose, and throat irritation; headaches, loss of coordination, nausea; damage to liver, kidney, and central nervous system. Some organics can cause cancer in animals; some are suspected or known to cause cancer in humans.

How do VOC's get into my home?

Organic chemicals are widely used as ingredients in household products. Paints, varnishes, and wax all contain organic solvents, as do many cleaning, disinfecting, cosmetic, degreasing, and hobby products. Fuels are made up of organic chemicals. All of these products can release organic compounds while you are using them, and, to some degree, when they are stored. Scientists have now discovered that molds and fungi also produce VOCs and related odors. As stated by Georgia Tech's Dr. Bayer, "As molds and fungi grow, they give off metabolic gases that contain VOC emissions."