We often think of air pollution as being outside, but the truth is that the air indoors– where we spend the majority of our time –is actually more polluted than outdoor air.
The air inside our homes could have a number of pollutants, either from particles breaking down in the walls or being tracked into the home, including:
- Dust
- Pollen
- Mold
- Pet dander
- Lead
- Radon
- Formaldehyde
- Fire-retardants
- Chemicals from cleaners, new paint, or furniture
People with asthma or other breathing issues, children, and the elderly may be sensitive to indoor pollutants. However, repeated exposure to indoor pollutants over the years can have adverse health effects on anyone.
What’s even more concerning at the present moment is the threat of coronavirus. We’re all staying more health-conscious in regards to our air quality to prevent the spread of this virus. Indoor air quality has never been more important or relevant than it is now.
That’s why it’s critical to take action now to improve your home’s indoor air quality.
Improve the Air Quality in Your Existing HVAC Unit
If you’re looking to improve air quality without replacing your existing HVAC unit, we recommend controlled humidity, air cleaners, and UV lights.
Regulate the Humidity
With the dry Colorado air in cold months, we are susceptible to cracked wood floors, static shocks, chapped lips, and bloody noses. That dry air in your homes can be regulated with a humidifier. Whether you have ductwork to heat your home or not, Day & Night has an Aprilaire humidifier solution for you.
Air Cleaners & UV Lights
An air cleaner attached to your furnace cleans the air before it’s recycled back through your HVAC system. Some air cleaners work by electronically charging the particles in the air and trapping them in a filter.
Other air cleaners make use of a UV light or advanced oxidation plasma– which can kill bacteria, viruses, and mold, and reduce odors and VOCs.
We sell air cleaner products from brands such as Aprilaire, Honeywell, and RFG Environmental Group. Day & Night can install these air cleaners for you if you live in the Denver area.
Change Air Filter on a Regular Schedule
For homes with forced-air heating, it’s advised to change the air filters regularly depending on your home’s size, if you have pets, if you have residents with allergies, and whether you live in a more urban area with more pollution outdoors. We tend to recommend an average of replacing your air filter every two months.
The Impact of a New High-Efficiency System
While taking the above measures can help improve your existing HVAC system and indoor air quality, replacing your system with a new high-efficiency one is even better for the air quality. Ductless systems are great for heating and cooling because they allow for temperature control in individual rooms or spaces.
With traditional HVAC systems, unwanted particles build up in the ducts and circulate through your home, causing a decrease in air quality. Even professional cleanings can’t prevent some air pollutants from remaining in your system. Ductless systems have filtration that can help cut down on the pollutants in the air so you can breathe easier.
Not only do ductless systems to produce better air quality but they are also:
- Cost-effective– cost less to heat and cool than traditional systems and there are federal tax credits available
- Energy-efficient– follow ENERGY STARⓇ guidelines and more efficiently heat and cool spaces than traditional systems
- Flexible– easy to install in any home or office
Ductless systems are highly efficient and can dramatically help improve the air quality in your home. Learn more about the impact of a high-efficiency indoor air system in your home here.
Invest in Your Indoor Air Quality
While we’re in the midst of a pandemic, it’s more critical than ever to invest in your home’s air quality. Day & Night Mechanical highly recommends investing in an air cleaner for improving your indoor air quality.
For the best indoor air quality solutions in Denver, Boulder, Brighton, Aurora, and surrounding areas, Day & Night Mechanical Solutions is here to help! Contact us at 303-936-2696 or fill out a contact form and for a free estimate!