Why Your Residence's Indoor Air Quality is Important

March 25, 2020

The global transmission of COVID-19 has likely shifted your daily routine all over the place.

When times feel uncertain, you can feel good in knowing your residence is your safe area. You’re possibly spending more time there today. That’s why your indoor air quality is now more critical than ever.

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

Modern homes are securely closed, which is great 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 can be troublesome, since we spend about 90% of our lifetime indoors.

There are many things that can contribute to poor indoor air quality, such as cleaning products and air fresheners. These may cause headaches and exasperate allergies and asthma.

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

Unsure which option is best for your house? Our knowledgeable technicians can perform an indoor air quality audit. Based off of our findings, we can then advise you on the most fitting choice for your household’s unique needs.

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

 

Air Filtration

When comparing air filters, it’s essential to look at the MERV rating, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. This measures how efficiently it filters contaminants.

One of the most average and least expensive filters, flat fiberglass filters, are graded between 1 and 4 on the MERV system. Pleated filters are a little bit better, ranking between 8 and 12.

We advise getting at minimum a MERV 13, like the HC13 Media Air Cleaner, for the best effect. This filter gives cleaner air while lowering energy use*.

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

Before installing an enhanced filter, reach us at 334-524-2458. Our professionals can help you find the most ideal match for your system.

Air Purification

Lennox® has some of the most advanced air purification systems 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 systems can eliminate:

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

UV Germicidal Lights

A UV germicidal light is placed within your HVAC system. Its strong rays eliminate bacteria and mold within seconds.

If your family has allergies or asthma, this system can deliver relief. Especially if you live in a muggy climate where bacteria and mold flourish.

This light also has an additional advantage for your heating and cooling system. It could help it last for a greater period of time and run more efficiently, as it keeps the internal parts clean.

Our air quality engineers advise installing one of these lights with an upgraded filter, such as our Carbon Clean 16® Media Air Cleaner, for the best effect. This filter offers industry-leading MERV 16 filtration in addition to carbon-coated fibers to trap particles in your home’s air. It does all of this without limiting your heating and cooling system’s airflow.

Whole-Home Humidifiers

Getting correct humidity in your house may help keep your loved ones in good health when it’s chilly. It can help with sore throats, itchy skin and chapped lips, in addition to further cold weather bothers.

If you aren’t sure of what your residence’s humidity percentage is, we’ll determine it while we perform your indoor air quality audit. While the range changes based on outdoor temperatures, HVAC professionals typically suggest keeping it between 40–60 percent.

You can accomplish this ideal range by using a whole-home humidifier. This unit generally works with your furnace or air handler to give optimum humidity throughout your residence. Some units, like the Healthy Climate® Whole-Home Power Humidifier, use an included fan to circulate humidity during the time your HVAC system isn’t on.

Turn to the Professionals for Your Indoor Air Quality Requirements

At Farnell Mechanical, Inc., we’re dedicated to making your house more relaxing. That’s why we sell Lennox® air quality products, which are the most exhaustive solution you can buy.

We’re also more than merely your heating and cooling company. We're concerned about the health of you and your family. That’s why we’re taking added precautions when we come to your house.

To discover more about our air quality equipment, reach us at 334-524-2458 or contact us online. Our skilled staff can also address any apprehension you may have with a professional arriving at your home 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.