Why Your House's Indoor Air Quality Matters

March 25, 2020

The global transmission of COVID-19 has likely flipped your daily schedule upside down.

In uncertain times, you can feel good in knowing your home is your safe area. You’re probably spending more time there now. That’s why your indoor air quality is now more critical than ever.

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

Today’s homes are tightly airtight, which is fantastic for energy efficiency. But it also means your indoor air can be worse than the air outside. In fact, the EPA says it can be two to five times worse than outdoors. This might lead to issues, since we spend about 90% of our days indoors.

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

There are several actions you can take to better your air quality. Some include enhanced air filters, an air purification system or an ultraviolet (UV) germicidal light.

Not sure which option is best for your home? Our expert techs can do an indoor air quality audit. Based upon the results, we can then advise you on the most fitting solution for your home’s distinctive needs.

Keep on reading to learn more about the air quality products we sell.

 

Air Filtration

When looking at air filters, it’s essential to look at the MERV rating, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. This gauges how efficiently it filters contaminants.

One of the most average and lowest priced filters, flat fiberglass filters, are graded between 1 and 4 on the MERV register. Pleated filters are somewhat better, rated between 8 and 12.

We suggest getting no less than a MERV 13, like the HC13 Media Air Cleaner, for the best results. This filter provides cleaner air while limiting energy consumption*.

High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are deemed the benchmark in air filtration, since they’re typically used in hospitals. They’re effective at catching 99.97–99.99% of indoor pollutants, such as pollen, pet dander and smoke.

In advance of buying an upgraded filter, give us a call at 239-244-3439. Our professionals can help you select the most ideal solution for your equipment.

Air Purification

Lennox® offers some of the best air purification units you can buy. PureAir™ S and Healthy Climate™ PureAir Air Purification Systems offer hospital-grade filtration while taking care of all types of indoor air contaminants.

These powerful units can eliminate:

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

UV Germicidal Lights

A UV germicidal light is placed inside your HVAC unit. Its penetrating rays eliminate bacteria and mold within seconds.

If your family struggles with allergies or asthma, this equipment can deliver relief. Especially if you live in an extremely hot part of the country where bacteria and mold grow quickly.

This light also provides an extra perk for your heating and cooling unit. It can help it run longer and run more efficiently, as it keeps the internal parts clean.

Our air quality engineers advise using one of these lights with an upgraded filter, such as our Carbon Clean 16® Media Air Cleaner, for the greatest effect. This filter delivers industry-leading MERV 16 filtration in addition to carbon-coated fibers to catch particles in your home’s air. It does all of this without decreasing your HVAC equipment’s airflow.

Whole-Home Humidifiers

Acquiring even humidity in your home may help keep your household from getting sick when it’s chilly. It can aid sore throats, itchy skin and peeling lips, in addition to other cold weather irritations.

If you aren’t sure of what your residence’s humidity range is, we’ll figure that out while we perform your indoor air quality audit. While the range fluctuates based off of outdoor temperatures, HVAC experts generally advise keeping it between 40–60 percent.

You can achieve this optimal range with a whole-home humidifier. This equipment typically accompanies your furnace or air handler to deliver the right level of humidity around your house. Some units, like the Healthy Climate® Whole-Home Power Humidifier, contain an incorporated fan to move humidity during the time your heating unit isn’t running.

Depend on the Professionals for Your Indoor Air Quality Necessities

At Speedy Air Conditioning, we’re dedicated to making your home more comfortable. That’s why we provide Lennox® air quality equipment, which are the most comprehensive solution on the market.

We’re also more than only your heating and cooling company. We're concerned about the well-being of you and your loved ones. That’s why our techs are taking more precautions when we come to your home.

To discover more about our air quality products, get in touch with us at 239-244-3439 or contact us online. Our knowledgeable staff can also address any concerns you may have with a tech visiting your residence today.

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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.