Combustion Product Particles
Sources of Respirable Particles
- Fireplaces,
- wood stoves,
- and kerosene heaters.
Health Effects
- Eye, nose, and throat irritation;
- respiratory infections
- and bronchitis; lung cancer.
Levels in Homes
Particle levels in homes without smoking or other strong particle sources are the same as, or lower than, outdoor levels.
Steps to Reduce Exposure to Respirable Particles
- Vent all furnaces to outdoors; keep doors to rest of house open when using unvented space heaters.
- Choose properly sized woodstoves, certified to meet EPA emission standards; make certain that doors on all woodstoves fit tightly.
- Have a trained professional inspect, clean, and tune-up central heating system (furnace, flues, and chimneys) annually. Repair any leaks properly.
- Change filters on central heating and cooling systems and air cleaners according to manufacturer’s directions.
Source: USEPA Website
