On a quest to reduce energy costs and preserve the environment, people are attempting to seal every possible source of airflow into their homes. While this does increase the efficiency of a home's heating and cooling systems, it also means that in Indiana and many other areas, people spend the vast majority of their time in places that have little or no fresh air. This can lead to poor, and even hazardous, indoor air quality. Tightly sealed spaces can fill up with invisible biocontaminants that according to the federal EPA, can trigger or exacerbate health issues including allergic reactions, asthma, an increased chance of contracting an infectious disease, and digestive problems.
These air contaminants may include:
- Pollens – generated by both indoor and outdoor plants
- Viruses – brought into the home by people or animals
- Mildew and mold spores – can grow in any damp area inside or outside of the home
- Pet dander – released from the animal's skin during grooming, petting or shedding
These facts may seem a bit scary, but don't panic. There are ways to improve the indoor air quality of your home without banning people and animals from it. These home air purifiers come in different forms but all allow you to breath easier knowing that the air you're inhaling is safe.
The first line of defense against air contaminants is often an effective filtering system. HEPA filters (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) are the most effective, as they are dense enough to catch even the smallest of biological contaminants, but any high-quality air filter for your heating or cooling system will help.
Another option is an ultraviolet (UV) light system. These lights, usually installed in duct or near the coils, will eliminate bacteria, viruses, spores and other germs that may be lurking in the heating or cooling system or your indoor air.
Deciding which system best suits your needs may seem a bit daunting, but all you need is some accurate information. If you live in the Fort Wayne area, the answers to this or any other home comfort questions can be found by contacting Hartman Brothers Heating & Air Conditioning Co.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in New Haven, Indiana and surrounding Fort Wayne area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about indoor air quality and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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