Why Your Residence's Indoor Air Quality is Significant

March 25, 2020

The worldwide transmission of COVID-19 has likely shifted your regular calendar upside down.

When things feel uncertain, you can take comfort in knowing your house is your safe area. You’re probably spending more time there today. That’s why your indoor air quality is now more critical than ever.

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

Modern residences are securely closed, which is good for energy efficiency. But it also means your inside air could be worse than the air outside. In actuality, the EPA says it can be two to five times worse than outdoors. This can 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, such as cleaning products and air fresheners. These could create headaches and worsen allergies and asthma.

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

Unsure which solution is best for your house? Our expert techs can perform an indoor air quality audit. Based upon the outcome, we can then suggest the most fitting solution for your family’s unique needs.

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

 

Air Filtration

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

One of the most ordinary and most economical filters, flat fiberglass filters, are graded between 1 and 4 on the MERV scale. Pleated filters are a little bit better, rated between 8 and 12.

We recommend installing at minimum a MERV 13, such as the HC13 Media Air Cleaner, for optimal outcome. This filter delivers clearer air while limiting energy needs*.

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

Before buying an enhanced filter, contact us at 715-301-0727. Our experts can help you select the best match for your system.

Air Purification

Lennox® has some of the best air purification systems you can buy. PureAir™ S and Healthy Climate™ PureAir Air Purification Systems offer hospital-grade filtration while taking care of all types of indoor air contaminants.

This powerful equipment can eliminate:

  • 99.9% of allergens, like pollen, dust and pet dander
  • 95% of bacteria-sized particles, like 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 HVAC unit. Its strong rays wipe out bacteria and mold within seconds.

If your family suffers from allergies or asthma, this equipment might give relief. Especially if you live in a humid climate where bacteria and mold grow quickly.

This light also has an extra advantage for your comfort system. It might help it work longer and run more efficiently, since it keeps the internal parts clean.

Our air quality engineers suggest combining one of these lights with an upgraded filter, such as our Carbon Clean 16® Media Air Cleaner, for the best outcome. This filter offers industry-leading MERV 16 filtration in addition to carbon-coated fibers to catch particles in your residence’s air. It does all of this without restricting your HVAC unit’s airflow.

Whole-Home Humidifiers

Acquiring balanced humidity in your house could help keep your family from getting sick during the winter. It can help with sore throats, dry skin and peeling lips, amidst further cold weather annoyances.

If you aren’t sure of what your residence’s humidity range is, we’ll determine it while we do your indoor air quality audit. While the range varies based off of outdoor temperatures, HVAC pros typically recommend keeping it between 40–60 percent.

You can reach this optimal range by using a whole-home humidifier. This equipment typically functions with your furnace or air handler to give optimal humidity throughout your home. Some models, like the Healthy Climate® Whole-Home Power Humidifier, contain an included fan to move humidity when your comfort unit isn’t on.

Rely on the Experts for Your Indoor Air Quality Needs

At Gilray Heating and Cooling, we’re committed to making your residence more relaxing. That’s why we offer Lennox® air quality equipment, which are the most complete solution on the market.

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

To learn more about our air quality solution, give us a call at 715-301-0727 or contact us online. Our knowledgeable staff can also answer any concerns you might have with a pro arriving at your residence 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.