Why Your Home's Indoor Air Quality Matters

March 25, 2020

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

When things feel uncertain, you can take peace in knowing your home is your safe space. You’re possibly spending more time there now. Consequently your indoor air quality is now more critical than ever.

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

Up-to-date houses are tightly airtight, which is fantastic for energy efficiency. But it also means your inside air might be worse than the air outside. In actuality, the EPA says it can be two to five times worse than outdoors. This may be problematic, since we spend about 90% of our days inside.

There are many factors that can contribute to poor indoor air quality, including cleaning products and air fresheners. These could result in headaches and irritate allergies and asthma.

There are a few things you can do to enhance your air quality. Some include upgraded air filters, an air purification system or an ultraviolet (UV) germicidal light.

Not certain which option is best for your residence? Our skilled professionals can conduct an indoor air quality audit. Based on the results, we can then advise you on the most fitting choice for your home’s unique needs.

Keep reading to discover more about the air quality products we provide.

 

Air Filtration

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

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

We advise installing no less than a MERV 13, such as the HC13 Media Air Cleaner, for the most ideal results. This filter delivers fresher air while lowering energy use*.

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

In advance of buying an upgraded filter, contact us at 641-316-3360. Our professionals can help you select the best option for your equipment.

Air Purification

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

These powerful units can take care of:

  • 99.9% of allergens, like 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 equipment. Its strong rays eliminate bacteria and mold within seconds.

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

This light also has an additional perk for your heating and cooling equipment. It might help it work for a greater period of time and run more efficiently, as it keeps the internal pieces clean.

Our air quality engineers recommend using one of these lights with an improved filter, such as our Carbon Clean 16® Media Air Cleaner, for optimal results. This filter offers industry-leading MERV 16 filtration combined with carbon-coated fibers to remove particles from your home’s air. It does all of this without decreasing your HVAC unit’s airflow.

Whole-Home Humidifiers

Having correct humidity in your house can help keep your household in good health when it’s cold. It can aid sore throats, flaky skin and cracked lips, among other cold weather annoyances.

If you aren’t sure of what your home’s humidity range is, we’ll measure it while we perform your indoor air quality audit. While the range fluctuates based off of outdoor temperatures, HVAC pros usually suggest keeping it between 40–60 percent.

You can reach this optimum range by using a whole-home humidifier. This equipment usually accompanies your furnace or air handler to give optimal humidity throughout your residence. Some equipment, like the Healthy Climate® Whole-Home Power Humidifier, use an included fan to spread humidity while your comfort unit isn’t operating.

Trust the Pros for Your Indoor Air Quality Needs

At B & G HVAC, we’re committed to making your house comfier. That’s why we sell Lennox® air quality options, which are the most complete 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 household. That’s why our technicians are taking more precautions when we visit your house.

To learn more about our air quality products, get in touch with us at 641-316-3360 or contact us online. Our skilled staff can also address any concerns you might have with a tech visiting your home 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.