What type of pollutants does a mechanical exhaust system typically target?

A mechanical exhaust system is designed to improve indoor air quality by removing indoor air contaminants. These contaminants can include a variety of pollutants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), odors, excess moisture, and other harmful substances generated by activities like cooking, cleaning, and the use of various household products. By actively removing these indoor pollutants, mechanical exhaust systems help to create a healthier indoor environment, reducing the risk of health issues associated with poor air quality.

The focus on indoor air contaminants is crucial because many people spend a significant amount of time indoors, and pollutants can accumulate in enclosed spaces without proper ventilation. This makes the role of mechanical exhaust systems vital in maintaining where people live and work.

While other choices mention different types of pollutants, they do not address the primary function of mechanical exhaust systems. Airborne particulate matter is just one type of pollutant and is not the sole focus of such systems. The removal of outdoor air pollutants is generally not within the scope of mechanical exhaust systems, which are primarily targeted at controlling the quality of indoor air. Lastly, while heat generated from appliances can be a concern, mechanical exhaust systems are not specifically geared towards managing heat, but rather towards removing contaminants from the air.