What is TVOC and how does it affect the human body?

TVOC (Total Volatile Organic Compounds) is a term used to measure the total concentration of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) in the air. These sensors are often installed in ventilation devices, recuperators, purifiers and other devices for controlling indoor air quality. But what are VOCs and why can they be dangerous?

VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are a large group of chemical compounds that easily turn into gas at room temperature and are the main air pollutants in our indoor spaces.

This group of chemical compounds includes substances that are dangerous to the human body, such as: benzene, formaldehyde, phenol, chloroform, acetone, nicotine, etc.

Indoors, sources of VOCs can include furniture, paints, glue, tobacco, sprays, aerosols, perfumes, cleaning products, disinfectants, air fresheners, exhaust fumes, photocopiers and printers, etc. People and animals are also sources of VOCs. These substances are released when we breathe, sweat, and perform other vital functions. When the temperature and humidity in a room increase, the release of volatile organic compounds becomes even more intense.

Some volatile organic compounds can have a very negative effect on the human body, causing irritation of the mucous membranes, headaches, sleepiness, nausea, dizziness and allergic reactions. Long-term exposure to high levels of TVOC indoors can cause chronic respiratory diseases, disrupt the nervous system, make you feel tired all the time, and mess with your concentration.

To reduce TVOC levels in a room, it should be ventilated regularly, with windows opened during and after the use of cleaning products, hairsprays, paints, glues and other harmful substances. Regular ventilation of the home helps to reduce CO2 levels, lower TVOC concentrations and prevent excessive humidity.

During periods of cold or heat, traditional ventilation can be uncomfortable. When we open windows, we can lose precious heat, which puts a significant strain on the heating system and increases utility bills. In summer, this method leads to a loss of cool air and increases the load on the air conditioning system.

Installing a recuperator will help you avoid discomfort, get fresh air in your home 24/7, reduce the concentration of harmful VOCs, and save on heating and air conditioning bills.

PRANA Eco Life series recuperators are equipped with high-quality TVOC and CO2 sensors, which allow you to continuously maintain high air quality without heat loss or discomfort. The sensors respond to an increase in VOC levels by sending a signal to the system to increase the intensity of contaminated air intake from the room and fresh air supply from outside.