Why Your Home's Indoor Air Quality is Significant

March 25, 2020

The international transmission of COVID-19 has likely flipped your daily calendar upside down.

When times feel uncertain, you can take comfort in knowing your home is your safe space. You’re likely spending more time there nowadays. That’s why your indoor air quality is now more critical than ever.

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

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

There are many factors that can lead to poor indoor air quality, like cleaning products and air fresheners. These might cause headaches and irritate allergies and asthma.

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

Not certain which solution is a good fit for your residence? Our knowledgeable techs can conduct an indoor air quality audit. Based off of our findings, we can then advise you on the best option for your family’s unique needs.

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

 

Air Filtration

When looking at air filters, you should consider the MERV rating, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. This assesses how successfully it filters air.

One of the most average and lowest priced filters, flat fiberglass filters, are graded between 1 and 4 on the MERV register. Pleated filters are somewhat better, graded between 8 and 12.

We recommend buying at least a MERV 13, like the HC13 Media Air Cleaner, for the most ideal results. This filter gives clearer air while reducing energy consumption*.

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

Ahead of buying an upgraded filter, give us a call at 703-278-2036. Our professionals can help you find the most ideal option 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 offer hospital-grade filtration while managing all categories of indoor air contaminants.

These powerful units 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 inside your HVAC system. Its penetrating rays eradicate bacteria and mold within seconds.

If your family suffers from allergies or asthma, this system might give relief. Especially if you live in an extremely hot area where bacteria and mold thrive.

This light also offers an additional bonus for your comfort system. It might help it work for a longer period of time and run more efficiently, because it keeps the internal components clean.

Our air quality engineers suggest combining one of these lights with an enhanced filter, such as our Carbon Clean 16® Media Air Cleaner, for the greatest outcome. This filter provides industry-leading MERV 16 filtration combined with carbon-coated fibers to trap particles in your home’s air. It does all of this without limiting your comfort equipment’s airflow.

Whole-Home Humidifiers

Having even humidity in your house might help keep your family healthy during the winter. It can assist with sore throats, itchy skin and chapped lips, in addition to further cold weather bothers.

If you don’t know what your home’s humidity level is, we’ll measure it while we do your indoor air quality audit. While the range changes based upon outdoor temperatures, HVAC pros generally advise keeping it between 40–60 percent.

You can achieve this optimal range by using a whole-home humidifier. This equipment usually accompanies your furnace or air handler to give the right level of humidity throughout your house. Some equipment, like the Healthy Climate® Whole-Home Power Humidifier, contain an included fan to spread humidity during the time your heating unit isn’t on.

Trust the Pros for Your Indoor Air Quality Needs

At Woody's Sudden Service Inc, we’re committed to making your residence comfier. That’s why we sell Lennox® air quality options, which are the most comprehensive solution you can get.

We’re also more than merely your heating and cooling company. We're concerned about the health of you and your loved ones. That’s why our techs are taking added precautions when we visit your residence.

To discover more about our air quality products, give us a call at 703-278-2036 or contact us online. Our friendly staff can also address any concerns you could have with a tech visiting your residence now.

--

*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.