Indoor Air Quality and Your HVAC System
Like most Americans, you’re concerned with Indoor Air Quality (IAQ). You want to make sure your family is breathing clean air at all times. What you may not know is how your home’s IAQ is directly impacted by your HVAC system. Your heating and cooling system’s air filter and evaporator coil play a big role in your home’s IAQ. Once you learn how IAQ is impacted by HVACs, you can take additional steps to ensure your home’s air is free of allergens and pollutants. We are your local choice for IAQ needs in Talladega, AL.
Evaporator Coil
Air Conditioners use evaporator coils that actively house refrigerant. When your AC system blows air over the coil, the refrigerant absorbs any heat that is present in the air. This produces cool air and causes moist air to form in and around the coil. This moist air creates the perfect environment for mold and other things to grow, which reduces your IAQ. During your routine HVAC maintenance appointment, these coils are cleaned.
Air Filter
Your heating and cooling system’s air filter actively traps airborne particles that can negatively impact your IAQ. These particulates can include waste from dust mites, pollen and mold spores. HVAC air filters should be changed regularly. And, if you have indoor allergies, you might consider an air filter upgrade.
Improving Your Indoor Air Quality
There are several ways you can use your heating and cooling system to improve your indoor air quality. Some of the best ways to accomplish this include:
- Upgrading Your Filter. Upgrading your home’s air filter is a logical first step in improving your IAQ. If you’re simply looking to remove more dust from the air, denser air filters are a great option. Your friends at Dunn’s Heating, Cooling and Plumbing can help you decide which air filter is best for you.
- Leveraging Ultraviolet Lights. You may also want to place ultraviolet lights within your HVAC system. These UV lights help clean the air as it moves through your system. Among several other benefits, UV lights can keep mold and biofilms from forming on your AC’s evaporator coil.
- Installing Air Cleaners. Many homeowners also choose to install air cleaners in their homes. From whole-house systems to portable units, there are several different kinds of cleaners to choose from.
- Improving Your Ventilation. As a homeowner, you can help your HVAC keep your IAQ high by improving your home’s ventilation. Ventilation can help remove pollutants from your home and bring in fresh, clean air from the outdoors. Simply opening the windows, when the weather permits, can go a long way. Also, use your home’s kitchen and bathroom extractor fans to help cycle more air outdoors.
If you’re struggling with IAQ in your home, contact Dunn’s Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing. We can help you find the best IAQ solution to meet your needs. Call today!