Why Your Residence's Indoor Air Quality is Significant

March 25, 2020

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

When things feel uncertain, you can feel good in knowing your residence is your safe space. You’re possibly spending more time there nowadays. Consequently your indoor air quality is now more crucial than ever.

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

Up-to-date houses are securely closed, which is fantastic for energy efficiency. But it also means your indoor air might 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 inside.

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

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

Unsure which solution is right for your house? Our knowledgeable pros can perform an indoor air quality audit. Based upon our findings, we can then advise you on the ideal choice for your home’s distinct needs.

Continue reading to find out more about the air quality equipment we provide.

 

Air Filtration

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

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

We recommend buying at minimum a MERV 13, such as the HC13 Media Air Cleaner, for optimal outcome. This filter delivers fresher air while reducing energy consumption*.

High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are considered the benchmark in air filtration, because they’re frequently used in hospitals. They’re effective at trapping 99.97–99.99% of indoor pollutants, including pollen, pet dander and smoke.

Before buying an enhanced filter, give us a call at 605-206-3915. Our professionals can help you choose the most ideal match for your equipment.

Air Purification

Lennox® provides some of the greatest air purification equipment you can purchase. PureAir™ S and Healthy Climate™ PureAir Air Purification Systems provide hospital-grade filtration while managing 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, including 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 HVAC equipment. Its penetrating rays eliminate bacteria and mold within seconds.

If your family suffers from allergies or asthma, this unit can provide relief. Especially if you are in a humid climate where bacteria and mold flourish.

This light also has an added advantage for your HVAC equipment. It may help it work longer and operate more efficiently, as it keeps the internal pieces 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 best results. This filter offers industry-leading MERV 16 filtration combined with carbon-coated fibers to remove particles from your residence’s air. It does all of this without restricting your heating and cooling unit’s airflow.

Whole-Home Humidifiers

Acquiring balanced humidity in your home can help keep your family from getting sick in the winter months. It can aid sore throats, dry skin and peeling lips, among further cold weather irritations.

If you aren’t aware of what your residence’s humidity range is, we’ll determine it when we complete your indoor air quality audit. While the range varies based off of outdoor temperatures, HVAC pros typically suggest keeping it between 40–60 percent.

You can reach this optimal range by using a whole-home humidifier. This system generally works with your furnace or air handler to give optimal humidity throughout your residence. Some equipment, like the Healthy Climate® Whole-Home Power Humidifier, have an included fan to spread humidity during the time your comfort system isn’t running.

Depend on the Experts for Your Indoor Air Quality Requirements

At Street Heating and Cooling, we’re passionate about making your residence more relaxing. That’s why we provide Lennox® air quality equipment, which are the most complete solution you can get.

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 visit your residence.

To find out more about our air quality equipment, reach us at 605-206-3915 or contact us online. Our knowledgeable staff can also handle any apprehension you might have with a technician 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.