The worldwide spread of COVID-19 has likely shifted your daily schedule upside down.
When times feel uncertain you can take peace in knowing your house is your safe space. You’re possibly spending more time there today. As a result, 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 clear bacteria from your air, as well as allergens, odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Today’s homes are firmly closed, which is great for energy efficiency. But it also means your indoor air might be worse than the air outside. In actuality, the EPA says it can be two to five times worse than outdoors. This could lead to issues since we spend about 90% of our lifetime indoors.
There are many factors that can contribute to poor indoor air quality, including cleaning products and air fresheners. These could lead to headaches and irritate allergies and asthma.
There are a few steps you can take to improve your air quality. Some include improved air filters, an air purification system or an ultraviolet (UV) germicidal light.
Unsure which system is a good fit for your home? Our expert technicians can conduct an indoor air quality audit. Based on the outcome, we can then advise you on the best solution for your home’s distinctive needs.
Continue reading to find out more about the air quality equipment we have.
Air Filtration
When comparing air filters, it’s essential to consider 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, are rated between 1 and 4 on the MERV system. Pleated filters are slightly better, graded between 8 and 12.
We recommend getting at least MERV 13, for instance the HC13 Media Air Cleaner, for the best outcome. This filter provides clearer air while limiting energy needs.
High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are considered the gold standard in air filtration, because they’re usually in use in hospitals. They’re effective at catching 99.97–99.99% of indoor pollutants, like pollen, pet dander and smoke.
In advance of buying a better filter, contact us at 435-753-5515. Our pros can help you find the best match for your unit.
Air Purification
Lennox has some of the best air purification units you can buy. PureAir™ S and Healthy Climate™ PureAir Air Purification Systems provide hospital-grade filtration while handling all categories of indoor air contaminants.
This powerful equipment can eliminate:
- 99.9% of allergens, like pollen, dust and pet dander.
- 95% of bacteria-sized particles, including ones that contribute to strep throat.
- 50% of VOCs and odors within 24 hours.
UV Germicidal Lights
A UV germicidal light is placed within your HVAC system. 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 reside in an extremely hot part of the country where bacteria and mold flourish.
This light also offers an additional advantage for your heating and cooling equipment. It may help it last for a longer period of time and operate more efficiently, because it keeps the internal components clean.
Our air quality engineers suggest installing one of these lights with an enhanced filter, such as our Carbon Clean 16® Media Air Cleaner, for optimal results. This filter delivers industry-leading MERV 16 filtration in addition to carbon-coated fibers to trap particles in your residence’s air. It completes this without limiting your comfort unit’s airflow.
Whole-Home Humidifiers
Getting correct humidity in your house may help keep your family healthy during the winter. It can help with sore throats, flaky skin and cracked lips, in addition to other cold weather bothers.
If you aren’t aware of what your home’s humidity level is, we’ll figure that out while we perform your indoor air quality audit. While the range fluctuates based upon outdoor temperatures, HVAC pros generally recommend keeping it between 40–60 percent.
You can achieve this optimal range by using a whole-home humidifier. This equipment usually works with your furnace or air handler to give optimum humidity throughout your house. Some equipment, like the Healthy Climate® Whole-Home Power Humidifier, contain an incorporated fan to spread humidity when your comfort equipment isn’t on.
Turn to the Experts for Your Indoor Air Quality Requirements
At Western Mechanical, Inc., we’re passionate about making your home more comfortable. That’s why we sell Lennox air quality options, which are the most exhaustive 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 technicians are taking additional precautions when we come to your residence.
To find out more about our air quality solution, give us a call at 435-753-5515 or contact us online. Our skilled staff can also handle any concerns you might have with a technician coming to your house at this time.
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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.