Why Your Residence's Indoor Air Quality Matters

March 25, 2020

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

In uncertain times, you can feel good in knowing your home is your safe area. You’re probably spending more time there today. Consequently your indoor air quality is now more critical than ever.

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

Up-to-date houses are securely airtight, which is good for energy efficiency. But it also means your inside air may be worse than the air outside. In reality, 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 inside.

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

There’s a combination of things you can do 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 best for your home? Our skilled pros can complete an indoor air quality audit. Based upon our findings, we can then advise you on the most fitting option for your household’s distinctive needs.

Keep on reading to find out more about the air quality products we sell.

 

Air Filtration

When looking at air filters, it’s important to review the MERV rating, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. This assesses how efficiently it filters contaminants.

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

We advise buying at least a MERV 13, for instance, the HC13 Media Air Cleaner, for the most ideal effect. This filter delivers clearer air while limiting energy use*.

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

Before installing an enhanced filter, contact us at 361-265-4371. Our pros can help you select the best option for your unit.

Air Purification

Lennox® provides some of the greatest 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.

This powerful equipment can take care of:

  • 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 installed within your comfort unit. Its strong rays eliminate bacteria and mold within seconds.

If your family has allergies or asthma, this system may give relief. Especially if you are in a muggy area where bacteria and mold grow quickly.

This light also has an extra advantage for your comfort system. It might help it last for a longer period of time and operate more efficiently, because it keeps the internal components clean.

Our air quality engineers suggest using one of these lights with an upgraded filter, such as our Carbon Clean 16® Media Air Cleaner, for the greatest outcome. This filter provides industry-leading MERV 16 filtration plus carbon-coated fibers to remove particles from your house’s air. It fulfills this without restricting your HVAC system’s airflow.

Whole-Home Humidifiers

Having balanced humidity in your house could help keep your family from getting sick when it’s chilly. It can assist with sore throats, flaky skin and cracked lips, among other cold weather bothers.

If you don’t know what your home’s humidity level is, we’ll figure that out when we complete your indoor air quality audit. While the range varies based on outdoor temperatures, HVAC pros generally suggest keeping it between 40–60 percent.

You can accomplish this optimum range by using a whole-home humidifier. This unit usually works with your furnace or air handler to deliver the right level of humidity across your residence. Some models, like the Healthy Climate® Whole-Home Power Humidifier, use an included fan to circulate humidity during the time your comfort system isn’t operating.

Rely on the Pros for Your Indoor Air Quality Necessities

At Rescue Heating & Air , we’re dedicated to making your residence comfier. That’s why we offer Lennox® air quality equipment, which are the most comprehensive solution on the market.

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 more precautions when we come to your home.

To learn more about our air quality products, reach us at 361-265-4371 or contact us online. Our skilled staff can also answer any apprehension you could have with a tech 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.