Why Your Residence's Indoor Air Quality is Important

March 25, 2020

The global transmission of COVID-19 has likely shifted your daily routine into a jumble.

When times feel uncertain, you can take comfort in knowing your residence is your safe retreat. You’re likely spending more time there now. That’s why your indoor air quality is now more important than ever.

Were you aware we can install indoor air quality products in your home that provide hospital-grade filtration? These options can clear bacteria from your air, as well as allergens, odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Modern homes are securely closed, which is fantastic for energy efficiency. But it also means your inside air can be worse than the air outside. In reality, the EPA says it can be two to five times worse than outdoors. This may lead to issues, since we spend about 90% of our time indoors.

There are many elements that can lead to poor indoor air quality, like cleaning products and air fresheners. These may lead to headaches and exasperate allergies and asthma.

There’s a combination of actions you can take to better your air quality. Some include enhanced air filters, an air purification system or an ultraviolet (UV) germicidal light.

Unsure which system is best for your residence? Our knowledgeable pros can perform an indoor air quality audit. Based off of the results, we can then suggest the best option for your family’s unique needs.

Continue reading to discover more about the air quality equipment we offer.

 

Air Filtration

When comparing air filters, you should consider the MERV rating, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. This gauges how efficiently it filters air.

One of the most common and least expensive filters, flat fiberglass filters, are graded between 1 and 4 on the MERV scale. Pleated filters are somewhat better, rated between 8 and 12.

We recommend buying at minimum a MERV 13, such as the HC13 Media Air Cleaner, for the best effect. This filter provides fresher air while reducing energy consumption*.

High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are considered the best in air filtration, since they’re frequently installed in hospitals. They’re effective at capturing 99.97–99.99% of indoor pollutants, such as pollen, pet dander and smoke.

Ahead of buying a better filter, reach us at 803-220-0761. Our pros can help you choose the right solution for your equipment.

Air Purification

Lennox® provides some of the best air purification equipment you can get. PureAir™ S and Healthy Climate™ PureAir Air Purification Systems provide hospital-grade filtration while taking care of all kinds of indoor air contaminants.

These powerful systems can take care of:

  • 99.9% of allergens, such as pollen, dust and pet dander
  • 95% of bacteria-sized particles, like ones that contribute to strep throat
  • 50% of VOCs and odors within 24 hours

UV Germicidal Lights

A UV germicidal light is added within your comfort unit. Its penetrating rays wipe out bacteria and mold within seconds.

If your family suffers from allergies or asthma, this system can offer relief. Especially if you are in a muggy area where bacteria and mold thrive.

This light also provides an added bonus for your HVAC unit. It may help it work longer and operate more efficiently, as it keeps the internal pieces clean.

Our air quality engineers recommend combining one of these lights with an upgraded filter, such as our Carbon Clean 16® Media Air Cleaner, for optimal effect. This filter provides industry-leading MERV 16 filtration combined with carbon-coated fibers to remove particles from your house’s air. It fulfills this without decreasing your comfort system’s airflow.

Whole-Home Humidifiers

Acquiring even humidity in your residence could help keep your family in good health when it’s cold. It can help with sore throats, flaky skin and chapped lips, amidst added cold weather irritations.

If you aren’t sure of what your residence’s humidity percentage is, we’ll determine it when we complete your indoor air quality audit. While the range varies based off of outdoor temperatures, HVAC experts typically suggest keeping it between 40–60 percent.

You can accomplish this ideal range by installing a whole-home humidifier. This equipment usually works with your furnace or air handler to deliver the right level of humidity around your residence. Some equipment, like the Healthy Climate® Whole-Home Power Humidifier, have an included fan to move humidity when your comfort system isn’t on.

Turn to the Professionals for Your Indoor Air Quality Needs

At US Air Heating and Cooling, we’re committed to making your house more relaxing. That’s why we sell Lennox® air quality options, which are the most complete solution on the market.

We’re also more than just your heating and cooling company. We're concerned about the well-being of you and your family. That’s why our techs are taking additional precautions when we visit your residence.

To find out more about our air quality equipment, give us a call at 803-220-0761 or contact us online. Our skilled staff can also handle any concerns you can have with a pro visiting your residence at this time.

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*Based on in-duct testing that shows Healthy Climate® filters reduce airflow restriction. Greater restriction of airflow creates a greater load on a unit’s fan motor, increasing energy consumption.