The global transmission of COVID-19 has likely turned your regular calendar upside down.
When times feel uncertain, you can feel good in knowing your home is your safe space. You’re probably spending more time there now. 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 home that deliver hospital-grade filtration? These options can clear bacteria from your air, as well as allergens, odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Today’s houses are tightly sealed, which is good for energy efficiency. But it also means your indoor air may be worse than the air outside. In actuality, the EPA says it can be two to five times worse than outdoors. This could cause a problem, since we spend about 90% of our lifetime indoors.
There are many things that can contribute to poor indoor air quality, like cleaning products and air fresheners. These can lead to headaches and worsen allergies and asthma.
There are several steps you can take to improve your air quality. Some include better air filters, an air purification system or an ultraviolet (UV) germicidal light.
Not certain which solution is right for your home? Our skilled pros can perform an indoor air quality audit. Based upon the outcome, we can then suggest the best solution for your household’s unique needs.
Continue reading to learn more about the air quality solutions we offer.
Air Filtration
When browsing air filters, you should look at the MERV rating, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. This measures how effectively it filters contaminants.
One of the most ordinary and least expensive filters, flat fiberglass filters, rank between 1 and 4 on the MERV system. Pleated filters are a little bit better, graded between 8 and 12.
We advise getting at minimum a MERV 13, for example, the HC13 Media Air Cleaner, for the most ideal effect. This filter gives cleaner air while limiting energy needs*.
High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are regarded as the best in air filtration, since they’re usually in use at in hospitals. They’re effective at catching 99.97–99.99% of indoor pollutants, like pollen, pet dander and smoke.
Before buying an enhanced filter, contact us at 435-753-5515. Our experts can help you choose the most ideal option for your unit.
Air Purification
Lennox® has some of the best air purification equipment you can purchase. PureAir™ S and Healthy Climate™ PureAir Air Purification Systems provide hospital-grade filtration while handling all categories of indoor air contaminants.
These powerful units can take care of:
- 99.9% of allergens, like pollen, dust and pet dander
- 95% of bacteria-sized particles, such as ones that cause strep throat
- 50% of VOCs and odors within 24 hours
UV Germicidal Lights
A UV germicidal light is installed within your comfort system. Its powerful rays eradicate bacteria and mold within seconds.
If your family struggles with allergies or asthma, this system can offer relief. Especially if you are in a muggy area where bacteria and mold thrive.
This light also offers an additional bonus for your HVAC system. It could help it last for a greater period of time and operate more efficiently, because it keeps the internal components clean.
Our air quality engineers advise using one of these lights with an upgraded filter, such as our Carbon Clean 16® Media Air Cleaner, for the greatest effect. This filter provides industry-leading MERV 16 filtration combined with carbon-coated fibers to remove particles from your house’s air. It does all of this without restricting your comfort equipment’s airflow.
Whole-Home Humidifiers
Acquiring correct humidity in your residence can help keep your household healthy when it’s cold. It can aid sore throats, dry skin and peeling lips, amidst added cold weather irritations.
If you aren’t sure of what your home’s humidity percentage is, we’ll figure that out while we perform your indoor air quality audit. While the range fluctuates based on outdoor temperatures, HVAC professionals typically suggest keeping it between 40–60 percent.
You can achieve this optimal range by installing a whole-home humidifier. This system usually accompanies your furnace or air handler to give optimum humidity throughout your residence. Some units, like the Healthy Climate® Whole-Home Power Humidifier, have an included fan to move humidity while your comfort equipment isn’t on.
Turn to the Experts for Your Indoor Air Quality Necessities
At Western Mechanical, Inc., we’re committed to making your house more relaxing. That’s why we provide Lennox® air quality options, which are the most complete solution you can buy.
We’re also more than only your heating and cooling company. We're concerned about the well-being of you and your loved ones. That’s why our techs are taking added precautions when we come to your residence.
To learn more about our air quality products, get in touch with us at 435-753-5515 or contact us online. Our knowledgeable staff can also address any concerns you could have with a technician visiting your home today.
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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.