People spend about 90% of their lives indoors, and indoor pollutant levels can be much higher than outdoor levels. The EPA ranks indoor air pollution among the top four environmental hazards in the USA. HVAC systems play an important role in buildings and homes. Not only do HVAC systems provide comfort for their inhabitants, but they also help keep a healthy indoor air quality(IAQ). There are several different ways to combat Indoor Air Quality concern such as mold, dust, odor and even viruses. There are several different Indoor Air Quality Solutions from higher rated MERV filters, electronic air cleaners, humidifiers, air purifiers and air scrubbers. Improved air quality and quality maintenance is key to combat current health issues, along with practicing good hygiene.
Filtration System
One benefit of a well-designed, installed, and maintained HVAC system is greater control over harmful organism such as viruses, bacteria, and mold. These pollutants negatively affect indoor air quality and health. Filters provide an exceptional type of defense against airborne pollutants and contaminants including those that have a diameter less than 2.5 microns. The larger the diameter the more dense the filter would need to be in order to capture it. Keep in mind that for filters to work in capturing contaminants, the HVAC system itself must be on and running. HEPA filters commonly used in healthcare settings are 99.97% effective at trapping particles even as small as 0.3 microns in size. HEPA filters are great for improving indoor air quality in general and can provide health benefits. However, they have not been tested against the novel coronavirus, and other smaller bacteria making them that much harder to eliminate.
Air Purifiers
Air purifiers work by drawing air in and then dispersing purified air out throughout your home. They are a cleaning device that captures and kills contaminants within the purifier itself. The air purifier is installed inside your existing ductwork and works as air passes through the device. Many homeowners already use them to combat allergies effectively. They are also an excellent way to remove odors from your home and other large particulate matter such as mold, pollen and pet dander from the air.
Humidity Levels
Viruses are least viable when relative humidity levels are kept between 40% and 60%. Commercial buildings most likely have systems in place to keep humidity controls within this range but are less common in residential homes. A well-maintained home humidifier that keeps your humidity at optimal levels can be a good idea to help with improving indoor air quality and your health.
AirScrubber By Aerus
AtLA Construction Heating and Air we offer air scrubber by Aerus which uses ActivePure® Technology. The air scrubber attaches directly to the HVAC system ductwork to remove air pollution, VOCs, surface contaminants, pet dander, odors and dust, resulting in a cleanerand healthier home. An air scrubber is an air cleaning device that uses a search and retrieve method to eliminate contaminants in your indoor air. As air passes through the ductwork system the air scrubber produces negative ions. An air scrubber contains small metal tubes arranged in the shape of a honeycomb. Air travels through these tubes and a section that contains an UV light. Thus, resulting in negative ions being sent out into your home. The negative ions bring back larger pollutants not captured by your normal filter such as bacteria, pollen or other allergens. Essentially an air scrubber is a UV disinfection system that complements HVAC filters already in place. They are used against microorganisms that are small enough to pass through the filters in your system. Air scrubbers can inactive pathogens essentially killing them through surface and airstream UV disinfection. Aerus Air Scrubber with ActivePure® Technology, eliminates harmful contaminants in the air and on the surfaces of your home. Although we still don’t have evidence on effective it is in killing coronavirus, it has been proven effective in reducing MRSA, exposure to common bacteria, viruses and can protect against allergy and asthma triggering contaminants. It maybe a bit concerning that the cleansing work happens in your space and not within the device itself. However, unlike an air purifier the negative ions will also attach to particles on surfaces of your home and not only airborne contaminants.
At LA Construction Heating and Air we understand, HVAC plays an important role in improving the indoor air quality of your home and business in fighting illnesses and viruses. While the products above are yet to be tested against coronavirus, they have been tested against bacteria, mold, flus and other viruses. For our part, to minimize the impact coronavirus may have in our community we are here to answer your questions regarding different air quality solutions. If you would like to learn more about our services such as maintenance and air quality solutions call us at 818-341-3406.
Coronavirus and Other Contaminants: How To Improve Indoor Air Quality Related Pages:
- Air Quality Solutions
- HVAC Maintenance
- Air Scrubber
- How Your HVAC System Can Alleviate Allergy Symptoms
