Why Your Residence's Indoor Air Quality is Significant

March 25, 2020

The global transmission of COVID-19 has likely flipped your regular calendar all over the place.

When things feel uncertain, you can take peace in knowing your house is your safe area. You’re probably spending more time there now. As a result, your indoor air quality is now more crucial than ever.

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

Up-to-date residences are firmly airtight, which is fantastic for energy efficiency. But it also means your inside air may be worse than the air outside. In fact, the EPA says it can be two to five times worse than outdoors. This could lead to issues, since we spend about 90% of our time indoors.

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

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

Not certain which system is right for your home? Our skilled technicians can conduct an indoor air quality audit. Based upon our findings, we can then recommend the ideal choice for your home’s distinct needs.

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

 

Air Filtration

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

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

We recommend getting at least a MERV 13, for instance, the HC13 Media Air Cleaner, for the most ideal effect. This filter gives fresher air while lowering energy consumption*.

High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are deemed the gold standard in air filtration, since they’re frequently in use at in hospitals. They’re effective at catching 99.97–99.99% of indoor pollutants, including pollen, pet dander and smoke.

Before installing an enhanced filter, give us a call at 402-438-7992. Our pros can help you select the right solution for your equipment.

Air Purification

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

These powerful systems can wipe out:

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

UV Germicidal Lights

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

If your family suffers from allergies or asthma, this unit could provide relief. Especially if you live in an extremely hot part of the country where bacteria and mold flourish.

This light also has an additional bonus for your heating and cooling system. It may help it work longer and operate more efficiently, as it keeps the internal parts clean.

Our air quality engineers recommend using one of these lights with an upgraded filter, such as our Carbon Clean 16® Media Air Cleaner, for the greatest results. This filter delivers industry-leading MERV 16 filtration plus carbon-coated fibers to remove particles from your residence’s air. It completes this without restricting your comfort unit’s airflow.

Whole-Home Humidifiers

Acquiring correct humidity in your house can help keep your household from getting sick when it’s chilly. It can aid sore throats, flaky skin and chapped lips, amidst other cold weather irritations.

If you don’t know what your house’s humidity range is, we’ll measure it while we do your indoor air quality audit. While the range changes based upon outdoor temperatures, HVAC experts generally advise keeping it between 40–60 percent.

You can reach this optimal range with a whole-home humidifier. This equipment usually functions with your furnace or air handler to deliver optimum humidity around your house. Some models, like the Healthy Climate® Whole-Home Power Humidifier, contain an included fan to spread humidity during the time your heating equipment isn’t running.

Depend on the Professionals for Your Indoor Air Quality Requirements

At AW Heating & Air Conditioning, we’re passionate about making your home more comfortable. That’s why we provide Lennox® air quality products, which are the most comprehensive solution you can buy.

We’re also more than merely your heating and cooling company. We're concerned about the well-being of you and your loved ones. That’s why our technicians are taking extra precautions when we arrive at your residence.

To learn more about our air quality products, get in touch with us at 402-438-7992 or contact us online. Our skilled staff can also address any concerns you could have with a technician visiting your house 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.