Comfort may be the first thing on your mind when looking for a new HVAC system. But, did you know health is also an important consideration? Indoor air quality (IAQ) is exactly what it sounds like, the quality of the air inside your home. Dust, pet dander, chemicals, allergens and bacteria can negatively affect the air you breathe. Thankfully, there are components of heating and air conditioning systems that seek to improve the quality of your indoor air.

The most obvious, and arguably most important, part of any indoor air quality system is the furnace filter. It is your main defense against indoor air particles that lower indoor air quality. A reliable filter can trap dust, pet dander, allergens and bacteria, among other things and stop them from reentering the air stream.

There are other, less obvious, indoor air quality additions you can add to your home. Let’s take a look at them one-by-one.

• Whole-Home Humidifier or Dehumidifiers
  Do you know how humidity affects home comfort? A home that has a higher humidity level is going to feel warmer than one with a lower humidity level. Additionally, a home that is too low in humidity can cause dry skin, while a home with too much humidity can lead to an increase in moisture that promotes the growth of bacteria and mold. While properly functioning air conditioners remove moisture during operation, a whole home humidifier or dehumidifier can better regulate humidity levels and increase your comfort level.
• UV light systems provide extra protection against indoor air pollutants. But, UV light systems do more than just block pollutants – they use the UV light spectrum to eliminate bacteria and viruses from the air. This keeps you and your family healthier. An added bonus of these systems is their ability to eliminate unpleasant odors.
• Air cleaners, like a media air cleaner, block pollutants and allergens present in the air before they enter your duct system. Polluted indoor air has been cited by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as one of the main threats to human health.
• Temperature Control Systems
  We can’t talk about indoor air quality without mentioning thermostats. Thermostats are the “central command” of your heating and cooling system. This is the component that alerts your air conditioner or gas furnace when you need heating or cooling power. Some thermostats also include humidity control features.

Are you looking to improve your indoor air quality? Give us a call! We’ll help you find the best solution for your home.