How to Improve Your Home’s Air Quality

Indoor Air Quality

The health of our families is a priority and that includes the air inside our homes. You may be surprised how the simplest things affect the quality of breathable air and the life of your HVAC system. With modern building methods, homes are sealed tighter than ever before, which means pet dander, dust, and fumes are trapped. To counteract odors and purify the air, we often install the thickest air filters and use deordorizers. However, these common solutions are creating greater problems and decreasing air quality. 

HVAC Filters

The purpose of our HVAC filters is to help clean harmful particles from the air. Choosing the best air filter can be confusing! It may seem logical that the higher the MERV* number, the better the filter. However, the best filter for the life of your air conditioning system is a nonpleated filter. The key is changing the filter monthly, or sooner if you have pets in the home or allergies. 

Nonpleated filters allow greater air flow through your HVAC system, which means it works more efficiently. In fact, thicker filters force your system to work harder, and this constant strain can shorten the life expectancy of your equipment. Over time, the filter catches pet dander, hair, dust, and allergens from the air. These build up, clogging the filter’s pores. So instead of using the same filter for months, it is best to change filters regularly. A little care and diligence saves thousands in repairs or early replacement of your HVAC unit. 

*An air filter’s minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) rating measures how effectively the filter stops dust and other contaminants from passing through the filter. Heat pumps and air conditioners come with manufacturer-recommended MERV ratings. Using a filter with a higher-than-recommended rating will strain the system’s fan, shortening the lifespan. 

Air Scrubbers and Air Purifier Systems

For those with allergies, consider installing an Air Scrubber. These devices attach directly to the ductwork of your HVAC system and remove air pollution, VOCs, surface contaminants, pet dander, odors and dust. 

For extra peace of mind and improved air quality, consider a separate Air Purifier. These stand-alone units vary in price, size, and filter life depending on your needs and preferences. 

What to Avoid for Air Purity?

“Air pollution inside is consistently 2-5 times higher than outside.”* Basically, any chemicals released into the air are bad for your system. You’ve probably heard of VOCs in relation to paints. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids. This includes oils from air fresheners and wax melts and aerosol sprays. Even dry-cleaned clothes emit VOCs. Avoid candles made of paraffin or with metal or lead wicks. If a visible cloud rises from the candle, it should not be burned inside. The unhealthy soot from candles dispurses into the air then builds up on your air filter. 

*EPA’s Office of Research and Development’s “Total Exposure Assessment Methodology (TEAM) Study”

Healthy Air Tips

Better candles are made of soy, beeswax, or coconut oil. 

Air out your home by opening windows and doors. 

Be sure to use proper ventilation if painting or using hobby materials such as glue. 

Run the bathroom fan. These handy fans are designed to work with your HVAC system!

For questions regarding Air Scrubbers or Air Purifier Systems, call 5 Starr Heating and Air today! Our licensed HVAC technicians will be happy to provide you further information. (251) 223-1217 https://www.5starrheatingandair.com/