The international spread of COVID-19 has likely flipped your daily schedule upside down.
When times feel uncertain, you can take peace in knowing your residence is your safe area. You’re likely spending more time there nowadays. Consequently your indoor air quality is now more critical than ever.
Did you realize we can install indoor air quality products in your residence that provide hospital-grade filtration? These products can eliminate bacteria from your air, as well as allergens, odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Modern houses are tightly airtight, which is fantastic for energy efficiency. But it also means your home’s air may be worse than the air outside. In reality, the EPA says it can be two to five times worse than outdoors. This could be problematic, since we spend about 90% of our lifetime inside.
There are many elements that can contribute to poor indoor air quality, such as cleaning products and air fresheners. These could result in headaches and exasperate allergies and asthma.
There’s a combination of things you can do to improve your air quality. Some include improved air filters, an air purification system or an ultraviolet (UV) germicidal light.
Not sure which solution is best for your home? Our skilled professionals can do an indoor air quality audit. Based off of the outcome, we can then suggest the ideal option for your family’s distinct needs.
Keep on reading to discover more about the air quality products we provide.
Air Filtration
When comparing air filters, it’s important to consider the MERV rating, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. This assesses how effectively it filters air.
One of the most average and most economical filters, flat fiberglass filters, are rated between 1 and 4 on the MERV scale. Pleated filters are a little bit better, graded between 8 and 12.
We advise buying at least a MERV 13, such as the HC13 Media Air Cleaner, for optimal effect. This filter gives cleaner air while lowering energy use*.
High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are deemed the benchmark in air filtration, as they’re frequently used in hospitals. They’re effective at catching 99.97–99.99% of indoor pollutants, including pollen, pet dander and smoke.
Before installing a better filter, contact us at 949-204-0859. Our pros can help you find the best solution for your unit.
Air Purification
Lennox® offers some of the best air purification units you can buy. PureAir™ S and Healthy Climate™ PureAir Air Purification Systems provide hospital-grade filtration while taking care of all kinds of indoor air contaminants.
This powerful equipment can take care of:
- 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 installed on the inside of your heating and cooling equipment. Its powerful rays wipe out bacteria and mold within seconds.
If your family suffers from allergies or asthma, this unit may provide relief. Especially if you are in an extremely hot area where bacteria and mold grow quickly.
This light also has an additional advantage for your comfort unit. It might help it last for a greater period of time and operate more efficiently, because it keeps the internal components clean.
Our air quality engineers recommend using 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 house’s air. It does all of this without restricting your heating and cooling system’s airflow.
Whole-Home Humidifiers
Getting even humidity in your house could help keep your household healthy when it’s cold. It can help with sore throats, itchy skin and chapped lips, amidst further cold weather irritations.
If you aren’t aware of what your home’s humidity percentage is, we’ll figure that out while we do your indoor air quality audit. While the range varies based on outdoor temperatures, HVAC experts typically advise keeping it between 40–60 percent.
You can reach this optimum range by installing a whole-home humidifier. This equipment usually functions with your furnace or air handler to provide the right level of humidity across your residence. Some equipment, like the Healthy Climate® Whole-Home Power Humidifier, use an incorporated fan to spread humidity when your heating equipment isn’t operating.
Turn to the Professionals for Your Indoor Air Quality Requirements
At 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc., we’re committed to making your home more comfortable. That’s why we provide Lennox® air quality equipment, 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 well-being of you and your household. That’s why our techs are taking extra precautions when we visit your home.
To learn more about our air quality equipment, get in touch with us at 949-204-0859 or contact us online. Our knowledgeable staff can also handle any worries you can have with a professional visiting your home today.
--
*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.