You spend a lot of time in your Sterling, VA, home, and the indoor air quality could have a big impact on your health and well-being. Many people are surprised to discover that household air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air. Here are three solutions that you can use for cleaner indoor air and improved health and allergies.
Air Purifiers
Air purifiers use ozone, electrostatic energy and filters to cleanse your home’s air. They’re able to inactivate biologicals, including spores, pollen, bacteria and viruses that trigger allergies or make you sick. An air purifier reduces sneezing, coughing, throat and eye irritation, headaches, watery eyes and trouble breathing. These products also neutralize odors and off-gassing chemicals, helping you enjoy a fresher and more comfortable home.
UV Lights
UV lights, also called disinfection lamps, eliminate more than 99.5 percent of the viruses and bacteria that cause respiratory infections. They use UV-C waves, which are short, energetic bursts of light that destroy bacteria and viruses. This sterilization method is used in hospitals and water treatment facilities. Installing one alongside your air handler, next to the coils, could lessen your risk of catching or spreading germs in your Sterling home.
HVAC Filters
Your HVAC filter also cleans the air in your home. HVAC filters are rated on a scale of 1 to 20, according to minimum efficiency reported value (MERV). Choose a high MERV rating when buying a filter. MERV ratings of 16 or higher capture tobacco smoke, bacteria and oil droplets from your home’s air. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, you’ll need to regularly replace both your HVAC filter and your air purifier’s filter in order to achieve the cleanest possible indoor air. Regular air filter replacement also boosts HVAC efficiency and improves airflow in your home. Be sure to install the filter that your HVAC manufacturer recommends.
To learn more about how to improve your home’s indoor air quality, check out Vernon The Heating & Cooling Specialist’s indoor air protection services, or call us today for additional details.
