IAQ Testing Services

As temperatures rise during the summer months, building owners and facility managers often experience an increase in indoor air quality (IAQ) complaints tied to unexplained or persistent odors. During this time of year, warmer conditions can accelerate the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), intensify sewer gas issues, and amplify mold-related odors in indoor environments.

Heat and humidity can cause building materials, furnishings, adhesives, paints, and cleaning products to emit higher levels of VOCs, contributing to chemical-like smells and occupant discomfort. In some cases, these emissions may also trigger headaches, respiratory irritation, or other IAQ concerns among building occupants.

“Summer conditions can significantly affect indoor environments, especially in facilities with poor ventilation, moisture intrusion, or aging infrastructure,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Identifying the source of an odor complaint is critical because what may seem like a nuisance smell could indicate an underlying environmental or mechanical issue.”

Another common source of seasonal odor complaints involves sewer gas infiltration. Dry floor drains, cracked plumbing vents, or failing sewer connections can allow hydrogen sulfide and other gases to enter occupied spaces, producing unpleasant odors and potential health concerns. Elevated temperatures can worsen these conditions, particularly in commercial buildings, schools, manufacturing facilities, and municipal structures.

Mold growth and microbial activity also tend to increase in warm, humid conditions. Musty odors are often among the first warning signs of hidden moisture problems behind walls, above ceiling tiles, or within HVAC systems.

EMSL Analytical supports industrial, commercial, healthcare, educational, and municipal clients nationwide with comprehensive laboratory services, sampling supplies, and real-time monitoring instruments for indoor air investigations. They offer laboratory testing services for mold, bacteria, VOCs, and other airborne contaminants to help pinpoint the source of IAQ complaints.

To learn more about EMSL’s air testing laboratory services and environmental monitoring solutions, visit www.EMSL.com, email info@EMSL.com, or call (800) 220-3675.

 

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP <797>, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOCs, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products, and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.