This Is Why Your Home's Indoor Air Quality Is Significant

The worldwide transmission of COVID-19 has likely turned your daily calendar into a jumble.

When things feel uncertain you can take peace in knowing your house is your safe area. You’re likely spending more time there now. As a result, your indoor air quality is now more important 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).

Up-to-date houses are firmly sealed, which is good for energy efficiency. But it also means your indoor air could be worse than the air outside. In fact, the EPA says it can be two to five times worse than outdoors. This can be troublesome since we spend about 90% of our time inside.

There are many things that can contribute to poor indoor air quality, including cleaning products and air fresheners. These might cause headaches and exasperate allergies and asthma.

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

Not sure which solution is right for your home? Our knowledgeable techs can complete an indoor air quality audit. Based upon the outcome, we can then suggest the best solution for your home’s distinct needs.

Continue reading to discover more about the air quality equipment we have.

Air Filtration

When looking at air filters, it’s important to look at the MERV rating, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. This assesses how effectively it filters contaminants.

One of the most ordinary and most economical filters, flat fiberglass filters, are graded between 1 and 4 on the MERV system. Pleated filters are somewhat better, ranking between 8 and 12.

We advise getting at least MERV 13, like the HC13 Media Air Cleaner, for the most ideal effect. This filter gives fresher air while lowering energy use.

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

Before getting an upgraded filter, reach us at 614-879-9091. Our pros 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 provide hospital-grade filtration while managing all types of indoor air contaminants.

These powerful units 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 installed on the inside of your heating and cooling system. Its powerful rays wipe out bacteria and mold within seconds.

If your family struggles with allergies or asthma, this unit may offer relief. Especially if you live in an extremely hot climate where bacteria and mold thrive.

This light also has an extra advantage for your comfort equipment. It may help it last longer and run more efficiently, as it keeps the internal pieces clean.

Our air quality engineers advise installing one of these lights with an upgraded filter, such as our Carbon Clean 16® Media Air Cleaner, for optimal effect. This filter offers industry-leading MERV 16 filtration plus carbon-coated fibers to catch particles in your residence’s air. It fulfills this without decreasing your heating and cooling unit’s airflow.

Whole-Home Humidifiers

Having balanced humidity in your home could help keep your loved ones healthy during the winter. It can aid sore throats, flaky skin and chapped lips, in addition to further cold weather irritations.

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

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

Turn to the Pros for Your Indoor Air Quality Needs

At West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc., we’re committed to making your home more relaxing. That’s why we offer Lennox air quality equipment, which are the most exhaustive solution on the market.

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 technicians are taking extra precautions when we come to your house.

To learn more about our air quality products, give us a call at 614-879-9091 or contact us online. Our knowledgeable staff can also answer any worries you may have with a pro coming to 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.