In recent months, despite the arrival of autumn, the persistent humid and sultry weather has continued to cause concern among homeowners. With temperatures hovering around 40 degrees Celsius, new paint, flooring, and furniture are still emitting strong odors. Due to constant rain, construction sites near completion can't open windows freely. Every time I step into my home at night, I'm immediately hit by that "new material" smell—when will I be able to move in without worry? How long will these odors last? Could they harm my health? These questions linger in my mind, creating a sense of unease.
Miss Li, who moved into her newly renovated home nearly a year ago, is also experiencing similar concerns. She described her new house as "not very stylish," but it has been plagued by problems since the beginning. Her child developed a red rash, and even when she closed the doors and windows at night, she felt an odd, lingering odor. Experts suggest that under high heat, materials and furniture may be releasing harmful substances.
High temperatures and humidity significantly accelerate the release of indoor pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and TVOCs. A recent survey conducted by Guangsha Times and Sohu Home revealed alarming statistics: over 92% of newly renovated homes have excessive indoor formaldehyde levels, with 76% exceeding five times the recommended limit. According to the China Indoor Decoration Association Environmental Monitoring Center, more than 111,000 deaths per year in China are linked to indoor air pollution. Experts warn that during hot and humid weather, the release rate of pollutants increases by up to 15%. If not addressed, this can lead to severe health risks.
It's clear that consumer concerns are well-founded. Qu Lingbo, a professional air treatment expert, explained that pollutants from synthetic materials are highly sensitive to temperature, humidity, wind speed, and atmospheric pressure. The release rate can increase by at least 15% compared to other seasons. When room temperature reaches 30°C or higher, the release rate can jump by 30%. For example, at 30°C and 45% humidity, formaldehyde concentration in the air was 0.223 mg/m³, which is 2.23 times the national standard. At 34°C and 50% humidity, it rose to 0.553 mg/m³, 5.53 times the standard. In contrast, at 18°C and 30% humidity, the level was only 0.033 mg/m³, far below the limit.
No smell doesn’t mean no pollution. Many people assume that if they don’t smell anything, there’s no problem. However, Qu Lingbo pointed out that different individuals perceive smells differently. Formaldehyde, for instance, is actually odorless. This lack of sensory feedback can mislead consumers, making them vulnerable to misleading claims from certain companies. Some may try to use sprays or air fresheners to mask the issue, but this can worsen the problem by causing secondary pollution. Experts emphasize that indoor pollution caused by renovation is chemical in nature and requires proper treatment, not just superficial fixes.
Low-cost non-environmental materials are often marketed as affordable options, but they contribute significantly to indoor pollution. Many manufacturers prioritize cost over sustainability, using synthetic materials that emit harmful chemicals. For example, adhesives used in composite boards can contain formaldehyde, while paints may include benzene and other toxic solvents.
The root cause of indoor pollution lies in the materials used during renovation. While regulations are slowly improving, many consumers remain unaware of the risks. Public environmental awareness is still low, and there is a long way to go before all homes meet safe standards.
To determine whether indoor air pollution exceeds limits, the best approach is to consult a professional testing agency with CMA certification. Testing costs between 350 and 550 yuan, and it's recommended to choose reputable institutions like those under the municipal CDC or Environmental Protection Bureau. Before seeking professional help, you can perform a simple sensory test: close the windows for 12–15 hours, then enter the room and pay attention to any immediate sensations like eye irritation, nose discomfort, or dizziness. If symptoms persist after staying for 30 minutes, it may indicate high pollution levels.
Sensory judgment can also help identify specific pollutants. For example, if your eyes burn and tear within 10 seconds, formaldehyde levels may exceed the standard by 5 times. A strong aromatic smell suggests benzene series contamination, while a noticeable odor points to TVOC issues. It's important to act promptly if any of these signs appear.
Qu Lingbo emphasized common misconceptions about indoor pollution. Many believe that if they don’t smell anything, there’s no problem. However, children, the elderly, and women are more susceptible to invisible dangers. Others think that bad smells will disappear over time, but some pollutants, like formaldehyde, can persist for years. Buying "air purifiers" without understanding the source of pollution is ineffective. Even after treatment, it's crucial to re-test the air to ensure safety.
Finally, some claim that plants or flowers can clean the air, but this is largely a myth. While they may absorb some pollutants, they cannot eliminate significant contamination. The key to solving indoor pollution lies in using eco-friendly materials and proper ventilation. Only through informed choices and scientific testing can we create safer living environments.
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