Why Your House's Indoor Air Quality Matters

March 25, 2020

The worldwide growth of COVID-19 has likely turned your regular schedule upside down.

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

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

Up-to-date homes are tightly 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 may be problematic, since we spend about 90% of our time indoors.

There are many elements that can cause poor indoor air quality, such as cleaning products and air fresheners. These might create headaches and irritate allergies and asthma.

There are a few things you can do to better your air quality. Some include improved air filters, an air purification system or an ultraviolet (UV) germicidal light.

Not sure which solution is right for your residence? Our skilled professionals can do an indoor air quality audit. Based on the results, we can then suggest the most fitting solution for your household’s distinctive needs.

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

 

Air Filtration

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

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

We recommend buying no less than a MERV 13, for example, the HC13 Media Air Cleaner, for the best effect. This filter delivers fresher air while lowering energy needs*.

High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are regarded as the benchmark in air filtration, as they’re typically installed in hospitals. They’re effective at capturing 99.97–99.99% of indoor pollutants, such as pollen, pet dander and smoke.

Before installing an upgraded filter, reach us at 314-325-7552. Our professionals can help you find the right match for your equipment.

Air Purification

Lennox® has some of the most advanced air purification units you can buy. PureAir™ S and Healthy Climate™ PureAir Air Purification Systems provide hospital-grade filtration while managing all types of indoor air contaminants.

This powerful equipment can wipe out:

  • 99.9% of allergens, such as pollen, dust and pet dander
  • 95% of bacteria-sized particles, such as 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 heating and cooling system. Its powerful rays eradicate bacteria and mold within seconds.

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

This light also offers an added bonus for your heating and cooling system. It can help it work longer and run more efficiently, as it keeps the internal parts clean.

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

Whole-Home Humidifiers

Having even humidity in your residence can help keep your loved ones in good health in the winter months. It can aid sore throats, flaky skin and cracked lips, in addition to other cold weather annoyances.

If you don’t know what your home’s humidity percentage is, we’ll figure that out while we do your indoor air quality audit. While the range fluctuates based off of outdoor temperatures, HVAC pros usually advise keeping it between 40–60 percent.

You can reach this optimum range by using a whole-home humidifier. This system typically functions with your furnace or air handler to deliver the right level of humidity throughout your residence. Some units, like the Healthy Climate® Whole-Home Power Humidifier, have an incorporated fan to move humidity during the time your heating equipment isn’t operating.

Turn to the Pros for Your Indoor Air Quality Requirements

At B & B Heating & Cooling, we’re dedicated to making your house comfier. That’s why we offer Lennox® air quality options, which are the most exhaustive solution you can buy.

We’re also more than just your heating and cooling company. We're concerned about the wellness of you and your household. That’s why our technicians are taking more precautions when we arrive at your house.

To find out more about our air quality equipment, get in touch with us at 314-325-7552 or contact us online. Our friendly staff can also answer any concerns you might have with a tech arriving at your home at this time.

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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.