Why Your Residence's Indoor Air Quality Matters

March 25, 2020

The international transmission of COVID-19 has likely shifted your daily calendar into a jumble.

When things feel uncertain, you can feel good in knowing your home is your safe retreat. You’re likely spending more time there now. As a result, your indoor air quality is now more critical than ever.

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

Modern residences are securely airtight, which is fantastic for energy efficiency. But it also means your indoor air may be worse than the air outside. In actuality, the EPA says it can be two to five times worse than outdoors. This might cause a problem, since we spend about 90% of our lifetime inside.

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 upgraded air filters, an air purification system or an ultraviolet (UV) germicidal light.

Not sure which system is right for your house? Our skilled professionals can perform an indoor air quality audit. Based off of the results, we can then recommend the ideal option for your family’s unique needs.

Keep reading to learn more about the air quality solutions we offer.

 

Air Filtration

When browsing air filters, it’s important to look at the MERV rating, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. This measures how successfully it filters contaminants.

One of the most average and most economical filters, flat fiberglass filters, rank between 1 and 4 on the MERV system. Pleated filters are slightly better, ranking between 8 and 12.

We recommend upgrading to at least a MERV 13, for example, the HC13 Media Air Cleaner, for the most ideal outcome. This filter delivers clearer air while lowering energy needs*.

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 trapping 99.97–99.99% of indoor pollutants, such as pollen, pet dander and smoke.

Ahead of buying an upgraded filter, contact us at 812-825-8695. Our experts can help you find the right solution for your system.

Air Purification

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

These powerful units can wipe out:

  • 99.9% of allergens, like 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 powerful rays eradicate bacteria and mold within seconds.

If your family suffers from allergies or asthma, this system may deliver relief. Especially if you live in an extremely hot climate where bacteria and mold flourish.

This light also offers an extra perk for your comfort equipment. It may help it last longer and run more efficiently, as it keeps the internal parts clean.

Our air quality engineers suggest combining 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 restricting your HVAC equipment’s airflow.

Whole-Home Humidifiers

Getting balanced humidity in your house might help keep your household from getting sick when it’s cold. It can aid sore throats, flaky skin and peeling lips, amidst further cold weather annoyances.

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 varies based on outdoor temperatures, HVAC professionals typically advise keeping it between 40–60 percent.

You can accomplish this optimum range by using a whole-home humidifier. This unit generally accompanies your furnace or air handler to provide optimum humidity across your house. Some equipment, like the Healthy Climate® Whole-Home Power Humidifier, have an included fan to circulate humidity while your heating equipment isn’t on.

Depend on the Experts for Your Indoor Air Quality Needs

At Stanford Heating & Cooling, we’re dedicated to making your residence 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 health of you and your family. That’s why we’re taking extra precautions when we visit your home.

To find out more about our air quality solution, give us a call at 812-825-8695 or contact us online. Our knowledgeable staff can also answer any worries you can have with a tech coming to 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.