Bacteria, dirt, dust, mold, and other airborne pollutants in your home circulate every time you run your heat or air conditioning. Individuals who have allergies, who are sensitive to mold, or who have compromised immune systems are most at risk. If you find yourself answering ‘yes’ to any of the following questions, your HVAC system may be the culprit.
- Do you feel better when you’re out of your house?
- Do you suffer from headaches, sore throats, or a runny nose?
- Does it seem like your house or apartment is always dusty?
- Is there a musty or stale smell when your HVAC system kicks on?
- Do you feel sluggish?
- Are you frequently sneezing, coughing, or wheezing?
The good news is that there are several filtration options you can choose from to make your indoor air healthier for everyone.
Media Filtration
A good media filter installed properly increases the length of the system, helps prevent mold growth by keeping the evaporator coil cleaner, and can last for 6-18 months depending on lifestyle. Media filters offer high-MERV filtration; A MERV rating tells you, on a scale of 1-16, how effectively your filter traps the small particles you don’t want circulating through your home. The higher a MERV rating, the more particles the filter traps. If that sounds like what you’re looking for, the media filter is your answer.
Electronic Filtration
An electronic air filter can be installed for a central HVAC system or as individual room units. These are highly effective particulate air filtration systems, specifically designed to remove small particles from the air, and they have been proven to kill viruses and mold. Room units can be serviced and cleaned by homeowners, while whole-house units typically need to be serviced and maintained by HVAC professionals.
UV light
There are two types of UV light sterilization; the first is a “stick type” light installed inside the return air duct near that sterilizes the air handler coil. A coil sterilization UV light runs 24/7 and is the most common type of HVAC UV light. It is also most reasonably priced. The second type is a complete UV light unit that sterilizes moving air. The UV light unit is installed in the return air duct and cycles on with the air handler blower. While these types of systems are good at killing mold and bacteria, they are also detrimental to electronics, plastics, and fiberglass found in HVAC equipment and ductwork. In the end, UV lights will cost more money in repairs and ductwork replacement than they may be worth.
Compromised indoor air quality can cause or worsen asthma, allergies, and other serious health conditions. Fortunately, regular cleaning and correct filtration will not only remove contaminants, but it can also improve the efficiency of your system. If you would like to know more about options for HVAC filtration, contact North East Air Conditioning, Heating, and Plumbing at 210-658-0111 or schedule an appointment here. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Photo by Brittany Colette on Unsplash
