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If you are concerned about the indoor air quality of your home or business in Chesapeake, VA, it is worth looking at your HVAC system and the vital role it can play in IAQ. There are several strategies you can employ to utilize your HVAC system to improve the quality of your indoor air.
Regular Maintenance
One of the best ways to positively influence your indoor air quality is by having it regularly maintained by a professional. Regular HVAC maintenance helps the whole system operate more effectively and efficiently, protecting you from the dangers of bad air through the constant circulation of air and the trapping of contaminants with clean air filters.
It is recommended that your HVAC system be checked by a technician at least once a year. During an inspection, a technician will check the operation of the equipment, run tests, identify safety concerns, change out filters if needed, and tune up components. Many home and business owners opt to get their heating and cooling systems checked twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. This way, potential issues are sorted out ahead of the most heavy-use seasons.
High-Quality Air Filters
The air filters in your HVAC system are especially important to your IAQ. Dust, pollen, and other particles are stopped by these filters, improving the air quality of your home or business. Some air filters, however, do the job better than others. If you wish to improve indoor air quality, you can determine whether your HVAC system can accommodate a HEPA filter. High-efficiency particulate air filters can remove up to 99.97% of airborne mold, dust, pollen, and bacteria. These filters are typically thicker than conventional air filters and can strain some systems.
Consulting with one of our technicians at Simmons Heating & Cooling will help you decide if a HEPA filter will work with your particular HVAC system. If not, recommendations can be made on what MERV rating your system can accommodate or how feasible it would be to upgrade.
Air Purification
HVAC systems can improve indoor air quality even more when paired with air purifiers. Air purifiers are particularly beneficial for those with respiratory conditions and allergies. They are best placed in high-use areas. These devices can catch smaller particles in the air than an HVAC system can on its own.
Humidity
There are some months during the year, like September, when Virginia can have high humidity. Hot, muggy weather outside can increase the humidity levels inside, reducing indoor air quality due to the promotion of mold growth and dust mites. Keeping the indoor humidity levels at 30 to 50 percent using the settings on your HVAC system will help improve your indoor air quality. This humidity range is too low for mold and dust mites to thrive.
UV Lights
You can have UV lights installed in your HVAC system to improve the indoor air quality of your home or business. UV lights have been utilized in various industries for their germicidal benefits for over a century and, when added to an HVAC system, help eliminate and prevent mold, bacteria, and viruses. Ten seconds of contact with a UV light deactivates the DNA of these germs, preventing them from replicating and/or killing them.
The most common places to install UV lights in an HVAC system are the ductwork near the HVAC system or near the AC evaporator coil. When placed in the ductwork, the lamp sanitizes air before it enters your business or home through the vents. A UV light targets the bacteria and mold that can grow in this often damp area if placed near the evaporator coil.
Your Chesapeake Indoor Air Quality Team
If you live in Chesapeake, VA, or the surrounding area and are looking to improve your indoor air quality, Simmons Heating & Cooling is here to help. We have served the community since 1964 and have NATE-certified technicians ready to provide exemplary service and up-to-date solutions. You can count on our team to give upfront pricing without hidden fees before we start a job. Our services go well beyond indoor air quality, you can also count on us for a full range of heating and cooling needs. This includes everything from heat pumps to generator repair. If you are ready to experience the Simmons Heating & Cooling difference, call us today.
