Frequently Asked Questions About Indoor Air Quality

The quality of the air inside a building is simply referred to as "indoor air quality", or IAQ. Air quality usually focuses on allergens, viruses, gases and other particulates in the air that aggravate allergies or cause even more serious health issues. While the average person generally only thinks about these items when considering their home's indoor air quality, HVAC professionals consider other factors that impact the overall quality of the air.

When determining the quality of a home's air, a ventilation technician considers temperature, humidity and air movement. There are a number of issues that can arise if all of these conditions aren't optimal, but among the most common are the dry eyes and nosebleeds associated with a home with low humidity. These homes often benefit from the installation of a humidification system.

Choosing an indoor air filtration system can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re new to this type of thing. HVAC experts can help you sort through all of the information on the various products available to find the one that’s best suited to your needs.

Of course, it’s always ideal to be able to eliminate as many contaminant particles from your indoor air supply as possible. But not all air cleaning and purification systems are able to target all types of contaminants equally well.

For instance, some of these systems are more effective against mold and allergens, while others do better at removing dust and odors. Depending on what particular contaminants you or your family members are sensitive to, one of these systems may make more sense than others. Trained experts can help you figure out which one.

The specific life of an air filter will vary from model to model, but in general it’s recommended that you change your air filter at least every 90 days. However, depending on how high the level of contaminants is in your home and whether or not you have pets, you may be better off changing your filter more often.

Air purification and cleaning systems work well for removing many of the particle contaminants that can invade your home. Biological contaminants, however, are often able to slip through these types of filtration systems. This leaves them free to grow and circulate through your home over and over again.

UV germicidal lights are the perfect complement to one of the various indoor air purification systems available today. After air has been filtered and other particles have been removed, the air will then pass by the germicidal lights so that biological contaminants can be eliminated as well.

Maintaining the proper humidity level in your home is extremely important. It helps your heating system function more smoothly and it can also help to keep biological contaminants from prospering. Air without enough moisture will quickly dry out your skin and nasal passages. It will also make it necessary to turn up your heating higher to get the same level of comfort.

Air that’s too humid, on the other hand, can be a breeding ground for germs and mold spores. Indeed, mold quickly flourishes in a damp environment, so keeping moisture to a reasonable level is essential in containing the growth of that particular contaminant.

With a good humidification system integrated into your heating and cooling system, you can have the perfect balance of comfort all year round.