Here's Why Your House's Indoor Air Quality Is Important

The international spread of COVID-19 has likely turned your daily schedule all over the place.

When times feel uncertain you can feel good in knowing your residence is your safe space. You’re possibly spending more time there now. Consequently your indoor air quality is now more critical than ever.

Did you know we can install indoor air quality products in your house that provide hospital-grade filtration? These solutions can eliminate bacteria from your air, as well as allergens, odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Modern homes are tightly sealed, which is fantastic for energy efficiency. But it also means your inside air might be worse than the air outside. In fact, the EPA says it can be two to five times worse than outdoors. This may cause a problem since we spend about 90% of our lifetime in a building.

There are many things that can lead to poor indoor air quality, like cleaning products and air fresheners. These can cause headaches and worsen allergies and asthma.

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

Not sure which solution is a good fit for your house? Our skilled pros can complete an indoor air quality audit. Based upon our findings, we can then recommend the best option for your household’s distinctive needs.

Keep reading to learn more about the air quality equipment we provide.

Air Filtration

When comparing air filters, you should look at the MERV rating, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. This measures how successfully it filters contaminants.

One of the most common and most economical filters, flat fiberglass filters, are graded between 1 and 4 on the MERV scale. Pleated filters are a little bit better, rated between 8 and 12.

We suggest getting at minimum MERV 13, for instance the HC13 Media Air Cleaner, for the best results. This filter gives cleaner air while reducing energy use.

High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are regarded as the best in air filtration, as they’re frequently used in hospitals. They’re effective at capturing 99.97–99.99% of indoor pollutants, including pollen, pet dander and smoke.

Before getting an enhanced filter, reach us at 814-308-0416. Our pros can help you select the best option for your equipment.

Air Purification

Lennox has some of the most advanced air purification units you can purchase. PureAir™ S and Healthy Climate™ PureAir Air Purification Systems offer hospital-grade filtration while managing all types of indoor air contaminants.

These powerful systems can eliminate:

• 99.9% of allergens, such as pollen, dust and pet dander.
• 95% of bacteria-sized particles, such as ones that lead to strep throat.
• 50% of VOCs and odors within 24 hours.

UV Germicidal Lights

A UV germicidal light is placed inside your heating and cooling equipment. Its powerful rays eliminate bacteria and mold within seconds.

If your family has allergies or asthma, this system might deliver relief. Especially if you are in an extremely hot area where bacteria and mold thrive.

This light also offers an extra bonus for your heating and cooling system. It can help it run longer and run more efficiently, since it keeps the internal pieces clean.

Our air quality engineers advise combining one of these lights with an enhanced filter, such as our Carbon Clean 16® Media Air Cleaner, for optimal results. This filter offers industry-leading MERV 16 filtration plus carbon-coated fibers to remove particles from your residence’s air. It does all of this without restricting your comfort system’s airflow.

Whole-Home Humidifiers

Getting balanced humidity in your home could help keep your household in good health when it’s cold. It can help with sore throats, flaky skin and cracked lips, in addition to other cold weather bothers.

If you don’t know what your home’s humidity range is, we’ll determine it while we perform your indoor air quality audit. While the range fluctuates based on outdoor temperatures, HVAC experts usually advise keeping it between 40–60 percent.

You can achieve this optimal range by installing a whole-home humidifier. This system typically functions with your furnace or air handler to give the right level of humidity throughout your house. Some equipment, like the Healthy Climate® Whole-Home Power Humidifier, have an included fan to spread humidity while your heating system isn’t running.

Depend on the Pros for Your Indoor Air Quality Necessities

At Patterson & Stirling, we’re dedicated to making your home comfier. That’s why we provide Lennox air quality products, which are the most comprehensive solution you can get.

We’re also more than only your heating and cooling company. We’re concerned about the health of you and your loved ones. That’s why our techs are taking additional precautions when we come to your house.

To learn more about our air quality solution, reach us at 814-308-0416 or contact us online. Our friendly staff can also address any apprehension you may have with a tech 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.