Your HVAC system is responsible for pumping air to every part of your home. While most people focus on their heating and cooling system’s ability to keep their home at a comfortable temperature, this system also plays a role in keeping the air healthy and breathable. If you’re concerned about the quality of air in your home, consider making the following health and wellness upgrades to your HVAC system:
Install an HEPA Filter
One of the most effective ways to clean the air in your home is with a HEPA filter. A HEPA filter should have a high Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value or MERV rating. Residential HEPA filters have a 5—10 MERV rating and are ideal for filtering out 99.97% of airborne particles. While HEPA filters undoubtedly have powerful filtration facilities, these filters aren’t always right for every home. It’s best to have an HVAC specialist help you decide on the right solution for your home filtration system.
Use Electrostatic Filters or Activated Carbon Filters
Electrostatic filters are another option to improve the filtration in your home. Use these filters to remove airborne particles with static electricity and ionization. These types of filters capture particles smaller than 10 microns. However, electrostatic filters aren’t particularly effective with mold spores and significantly smaller particles.
Another filter to consider for your home is an activated carbon filter. These filters absorb gaseous odors and contaminants. Activated carbon filters are ideal for individuals that have multiple chemical sensitivities.
Upgrade to UV Light
In addition to using high-quality filtration, you can also upgrade your HVAC system to use ultraviolet light. UV air cleaners use powerful UV rays to kill contaminants by destroying their DNA. This UV technology works to disinfect and sterilize the air in your home by removing pollutants like mold, bacteria, and similar particles in exhaust, gas, and smoke. Be sure to work with your contractor to decide which type of air quality system is best for your home.
Get an Indoor Air Scrubber
Air scrubbers are another option to keep the air in your home clean. Typically used as air purifiers, these scrubbers work by emitting antimicrobial agents like superoxide and hydrogen peroxide ions. These ions then attack contaminants like bacteria and mold.
Install air scrubber technology in your HVAC system to help sanitize the air in your home. These systems are especially helpful in eliminating offensive odors, VOCs, vapors, and other gases.
Make sure the air you’re breathing at home is as healthy as possible. Use this guide to make the right upgrades to your current HVAC system. For more information, contact an HVAC provider like Nick Dolinic Heating & Cooling.