Home ‣ Environmental Services ‣ Particle Counting

Particle Counting

(Particulate Matter)

Providing Testing to Help Determine the Levels of Microscopic Debris in the Air.

Schedule particle counting

Call 407-753-6341



State-certified lab



Results in days

Not weeks



Plain-English report

No upselling

InterNACHI
Certified IAQ Inspector

Why Measure Particulate Matter (PM)?

At a glance
State of Florida-certified lab · results in days, not weeks · no treatment system upsell.

Particulate Matter affects more people than any other pollutant. It consists of a complex mixture of solid and liquid particles of organic and inorganic substances suspended in the air. The particles are often identified according to their aerodynamic diameter, as either PM10 (particles with an aerodynamic diameter smaller than 10 µm) or PM2.5 (aerodynamic diameter smaller than 2.5 µm). The latter are more dangerous since, when inhaled, they may reach the peripheral regions of the bronchioles, and interfere with gas exchange inside the lungs.

Comparing indoor particle counts or particle mass concentration to outdoor counts/concentration provides information regarding the effectiveness of filtration, as well as for the potential that there are indoor sources contributing to airborne particulate matter. Many IAQ investigators have developed experience with elevated particle counts in specific particle size ranges to provide additional clues towards determining the potential sources of these particles. For example, tobacco smoke is known to be in the .01 to 1.0 micron size range, and pollens are typically >10 microns.

Elite Mold Services offers particulate counting to help determine the levels of microscopic debris in the air. Depending on the size of the actual particles, they will either be inhaled deep down into the recesses of someone’s lungs or caught in the upper respiratory tract wreaking havoc there.

What are typical sources of Particulate Matter?

Particulate matter is typically brought in from outdoor dust, pollen, smoke, smog and other outdoor sources. Indoor sources may include copier machines, printers, paper dust, environmental tobacco smoke, carpet fibers, upholstery, skin cells, pet dander, dust mite allergens and poorly ventilated combustion processes (fireplaces, kitchen cooking areas, boilers, furnaces, gas heaters, wood stoves, etc).

From outdoor sources; respirable particles that are 2.5-10 µm, and course, inhalable, suspended particles that are 10 -25 µm+, are found near roadways and dusty industries. Fine particles, those that are 2.5 µm and smaller, are usually the result of smoke and haze (forest fires, gases from power plants, industries, and motor vehicles).

Mold spores and fragments are microscopic (2-25 µm) and are naturally present in both indoor and outdoor air. Molds reproduce by means of spores. Some molds have spores that are easily disturbed and waft into the air and settle repeatedly with each disturbance. Other molds have sticky spores that will cling to surfaces and are dislodged by brushing against them or by other direct contact. If the particulate levels are elevated in this mold range, mold sampling can be performed to help determine what type and level of mold is present within the occupied spaces.

Here is a simple chart to show common sizing of various particulate:

It is unlikely that one standard or guideline will lead to complete protection to the health effects of particulate matter. Particulates less than 10 µm diameter are the most dangerous because are inhalable and can get deep in to your lungs and even your bloodstream. People that already have heart or lung diseases, children and the elderly are the ones usually affected the most. Due to this, some of the health effects are:

Increased respiratory symptoms, such as irritation of the airways, coughing, or difficulty breathing; i.e.
Decreased lung capacity
Aggravated asthma
Development of chronic bronchitis
Irregular heart beat
Non-fatal heart attacks
Premature death of people with heart or lung diseases

Establishing a baseline of particulate data to compare to when complaints arise, or when construction is in progress or after changes have been made to an occupied space can provide valuable information to a Facility Manager, Building Owner or IAQ investigator.

In some cases, tracking increasing particulate levels may be used to “bloodhound” a source of airborne particulate. Elevated particulate, in the absence of a known source, may also indicate justification for air sampling, to be sent out for detailed laboratory analysis of the chemical composition of the particles.

Why Choose Our Particle Counting (PM) Services?

Fast Turnaround Times

Fast scheduling and prompt turnaround to help you begin restoration quickly.

Experienced Technicians

Experienced inspectors specializing in home allergen testing.

Accurate and Reliable Results

Detailed, easy-to-understand reports with clear findings and professional recommendations.

Affordable Pricing

Competitive rates without compromising quality.

Questions business owners ask before booking.

Don’t see yours? Call 407-753-6341 — a real person picks up.

What is indoor particle counting (particulate matter) testing?

Indoor particle counting measures the number and size of airborne particles circulating inside a building. This testing helps identify poor indoor air quality that may be caused by dust, pollen, smoke, pet dander, construction debris, or other fine particles that can affect respiratory health and occupant comfort.

Who should consider indoor particulate matter testing in Central Florida?

Homeowners, business owners, schools, healthcare facilities, property managers, and real estate buyers can all benefit from indoor particle counting. It’s especially valuable for individuals with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory conditions who want to understand what they’re breathing indoors.

Does high humidity in Central Florida affect indoor particle levels?

Yes. While humidity itself is not a particulate, Central Florida’s humid climate can allow dust, pollen, mold spores, and other airborne particles to remain suspended or accumulate more easily. High humidity can also reduce HVAC efficiency if systems are not properly maintained.

Will indoor particle counting identify the exact type of particles in my home?

No. Particle counters measure the concentration and size of airborne particles but do not identify their composition. If identification is needed, additional testing such as mold sampling, allergen testing, or laboratory analysis may be recommended.

Can outdoor air pollution affect indoor particle counts?

Yes. Vehicle emissions, pollen, wildfire smoke, construction activity, and other outdoor pollutants can enter buildings through doors, windows, ventilation systems, and small air leaks. Indoor particle counting helps determine how much outdoor pollution is impacting your indoor environment.

Why choose Elite Mold Services for OSHA indoor air quality complaint investigations?

Elite’s professional indoor air quality inspectors uses calibrated equipment, follow established testing procedures, evaluates multiple sampling locations, and interpret the results within the context of your building. We can also recommend practical solutions to reduce airborne particle levels.

Serving all of Central Florida.

Orange, Seminole, Brevard, Hillsborough, Lake, Marion, Osceola, Polk, Sumter and Volusia counties — including Winter Park, Winter Garden, Apopka, Clermont, Lakeland, Maitland, Sanford, Deland, Oviedo, Lake Mary, Altamonte Springs, and Daytona Beach.