Why Your Residence's Indoor Air Quality Matters

March 25, 2020

The global growth of COVID-19 has likely flipped your regular schedule into a jumble.

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

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

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

There are many elements that can cause poor indoor air quality, like cleaning products and air fresheners. These may cause headaches and exasperate 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 solution is a good fit for your home? Our expert technicians can do an indoor air quality audit. Based on the results, we can then suggest the most fitting option for your family’s distinct needs.

Keep on reading to find out more about the air quality solutions we provide.

 

Air Filtration

When looking at air filters, you should consider the MERV rating, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. This assesses how successfully it filters contaminants.

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

We recommend getting at minimum a MERV 13, for instance, the HC13 Media Air Cleaner, for the best effect. This filter gives fresher air while limiting energy consumption*.

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

Before getting a more powerful filter, contact us at 519-296-4437. Our professionals can help you find the right match for your system.

Air Purification

Lennox® has some of the most advanced air purification equipment you can purchase. PureAir™ S and Healthy Climate™ PureAir Air Purification Systems offer hospital-grade filtration while handling all categories of indoor air contaminants.

These powerful units can wipe out:

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

UV Germicidal Lights

A UV germicidal light is placed on the inside of your HVAC unit. Its strong rays eliminate bacteria and mold within seconds.

If your family has allergies or asthma, this equipment may deliver relief. Especially if you reside in a muggy climate where bacteria and mold grow quickly.

This light also offers an added perk for your HVAC equipment. It can help it last for a longer period of time and operate more efficiently, since it keeps the internal pieces clean.

Our air quality engineers suggest installing one of these lights with an improved filter, such as our Carbon Clean 16® Media Air Cleaner, for optimal outcome. This filter offers industry-leading MERV 16 filtration in addition to carbon-coated fibers to remove particles from your home’s air. It does all of this without limiting your heating and cooling equipment’s airflow.

Whole-Home Humidifiers

Acquiring correct humidity in your home might help keep your loved ones from getting sick during the winter. It can assist with sore throats, itchy skin and chapped lips, amidst further cold weather bothers.

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

You can accomplish this ideal range by using a whole-home humidifier. This system generally accompanies your furnace or air handler to give the right level of humidity around your house. Some units, like the Healthy Climate® Whole-Home Power Humidifier, use a built-in fan to spread humidity while your heating system isn’t operating.

Turn to the Experts for Your Indoor Air Quality Necessities

At Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning, we’re passionate about making your house comfier. That’s why we offer Lennox® air quality options, which are the most complete solution you can buy.

We’re also more than only your heating and cooling company. We're concerned about the wellness of you and your loved ones. That’s why our technicians are taking more precautions when we visit your home.

To discover more about our air quality products, get in touch with us at 519-296-4437 or contact us online. Our knowledgeable staff can also answer any apprehension you may have with a professional coming to your residence now.

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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.