This Is Why Your House's Indoor Air Quality Is Significant

Feb 23, 2024

Author

Jake Nielson

Manager

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

In uncertain times you can take peace in knowing your home is your safe retreat. You’re likely spending more time there now. That’s why your indoor air quality is now more crucial than ever.

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

Modern houses are tightly closed, which is great for energy efficiency. But it also means your inside air may be worse than the air outside. In actuality, the EPA says it can be two to five times worse than outdoors. This may be problematic since we spend about 90% of our days in a building.

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

There are several actions you can take to improve your air quality. Some include better air filters, an air purification system or an ultraviolet (UV) germicidal light.

Unsure which system is right for your house? Our knowledgeable techs can perform an indoor air quality audit. Based on our findings, we can then recommend the most fitting option for your household’s distinctive needs.

Keep on reading to learn more about the air quality solutions we offer.

Air Filtration

When comparing air filters, it’s important to consider the MERV rating, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. This assesses how efficiently it filters air.

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

We recommend upgrading to no less than MERV 13, for instance the HC13 Media Air Cleaner, for the best outcome. This filter provides cleaner air while limiting energy use.

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

Before getting a better filter, contact us at 636-456-5041. Our pros can help you choose the best match for your unit.

Air Purification

Lennox has some of the best air purification units you can get. 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 eliminate:

  • 99.9% of allergens, like pollen, dust and pet dander.

  • 95% of bacteria-sized particles, like ones that lead to strep throat.

  • 50% of VOCs and odors within 24 hours.

UV Germicidal Lights

A UV germicidal light is added inside your heating and cooling system. Its penetrating rays eliminate bacteria and mold within seconds.

If your family suffers from allergies or asthma, this unit may provide relief. Especially if you live in a muggy part of the country where bacteria and mold thrive.

This light also offers an additional advantage for your comfort unit. It could help it work for a greater period of time and operate more efficiently, since it keeps the internal parts clean.

Our air quality engineers recommend using one of these lights with an enhanced filter, such as our Carbon Clean 16® Media Air Cleaner, for the greatest effect. This filter offers industry-leading MERV 16 filtration in addition to carbon-coated fibers to catch particles in your home’s air. It completes this without limiting your HVAC equipment’s airflow.

Whole-Home Humidifiers

Getting balanced humidity in your residence can help keep your household in good health during the winter. It can assist with sore throats, dry skin and chapped lips, among further cold weather bothers.

If you aren’t aware of what your house’s humidity level is, we’ll figure that out while we perform your indoor air quality audit. While the range varies based upon outdoor temperatures, HVAC professionals generally suggest keeping it between 40–60 percent.

You can accomplish this ideal range with a whole-home humidifier. This system generally works with your furnace or air handler to give optimum humidity across your home. Some equipment, like the Healthy Climate® Whole-Home Power Humidifier, have a built-in fan to move humidity during the time your comfort system isn’t running.

Turn to the Experts for Your Indoor Air Quality Necessities

At Schraer Heating & Air Conditioning, we’re committed to making your residence more comfortable. That’s why we sell Lennox air quality options, which are the most comprehensive solution you can get.

We’re also more than just your heating and cooling company. We’re concerned about the well-being of you and your family. That’s why our technicians are taking extra precautions when we arrive at your residence.

To learn more about our air quality solution, get in touch with us at 636-456-5041 or contact us online. Our skilled staff can also handle any apprehension you could have with a professional coming to your house 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.