In the American Lung Association’s 2023 State of the Air Report, Pennsylvania’s Allegheny County landed in the 25th spot among the most polluted areas to live in the United States. Despite years of deindustrialization efforts focused on reducing pollution from once-thriving industries, the lasting effects of heavily polluted air continue to cast a shadow.
And while outdoor pollution dangers are widely recognized, few consider the lasting impact when those pollutants infiltrate our homes unchecked.
The numbers are shocking: Every year, indoor air pollution leads to 3.2 million premature deaths worldwide with many being caused by respiratory and heart problems, according to the World Health Organization.
At Spurk HVAC, we take these statistics seriously. As a leading provider of HVAC solutions in Southwestern Pennsylvania, we recognize the importance of ensuring clean and healthy indoor air for our customers. In this blog post, we'll delve into efficient HVAC systems' role in combating indoor pollutants and explore practical strategies to safeguard your family's well-being.
How to Optimize Your HVAC System for Better Indoor Air Quality
While HVAC systems were once solely associated with regulating indoor temperatures, they've now become essential for cleaning the air you breathe.
Today's modern HVAC systems go beyond comfort, actively promoting improved health, energy efficiency, and air quality by filtering, ventilating, controlling humidity, purifying the air, and managing pollutants.
Spurk HVAC’s Guide to Enhancing Air Quality in Your Home
Even in well-sealed homes, outside air pollutants can find their way in. Discover the most effective methods for improving your home's air quality with our expert tips.
1. Ensure Your HVAC Air Filter is Checked Regularly
HVAC air filters trap particles and contaminants from the air your system needs to function. Made from materials like fiberglass and pleated paper, they employ mechanical and electrostatic filtration to capture dust, pollen, pet dander, and more.
If the filter is dirty or missing, debris can accumulate in your system, leading to problems and reintroducing pollutants into the air you breathe. Regular maintenance, including filter replacement and cleaning, is essential.
Manufacturers generally recommend checking and changing your HVAC filter every 30 to 60 days though other factors may require more frequent replacements.
Pro tip:
In the midst of your busy schedule, remembering to check and replace your air filter might slip through the cracks. Our online filter store simplifies this task with a wide range of filters for all types of systems. Opt for our Auto-delivery service for scheduled shipments and receive a 10% discount on each delivery.
2. Consider Integrating an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV)
An Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) is a ventilation system commonly found in residential and commercial buildings to enhance indoor air quality and conserve energy. It works by expelling stagnant and odorous indoor air, drawing in fresh outdoor air, and transferring heat and moisture between the two air streams.
A diagram depicting an Energy Recovery System and how it works.
Source: Holmes
Installing an ERV into your new or existing HVAC setup provides several advantages:
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- Enhances air quality by expelling stale air and filtering incoming fresh air.
- Improves HVAC efficiency by recycling energy from exhaust air.
- Manages odors by removing airborne contaminants and filtering air.
- Reduces humidity levels, preventing the growth of mold and mildew.
- Maintenance is simple, requiring only cleaning and reinstalling your filter.
Despite the initial upfront costs, the long-term savings and health benefits make this investment one you’ll never regret.
3. Upgrade to a High-Efficiency Air Cleaner
Conventional air filters can decrease air pollutants to some extent, but advanced high-efficiency air cleaners, like HEPA filters, are even more effective. These cleaners typically have a high Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating, indicating their exceptional ability to capture particles. In theory, they can remove at least 99.97% of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and airborne particles sized 0.3 microns or larger. This upgrade is worth it, especially if you have preexisting health conditions such as asthma.
Spurk’s Pro Picks:
Our top choice for comprehensive air purification is the Fantech HERO HEPA Whole House Filtration System. With its advanced 3-stage filtration, and adjustable speed operation that seamlessly integrates with your forced-air system, we wholeheartedly recommend this to our clients.
4. Consider Adding an Air Ionizer
Air ionizers are commonly found as standalone units or integrated into HVAC systems to enhance effectiveness. They emit negative ions into the air which attach to tiny particles, give them an electrical charge, and then cause them to clump together and settle on surfaces like walls, floors, and tabletops for easy cleanup later.
Spurk’s Pro Picks:
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- iWave-R:
The iWave-R is a self-cleaning air purifier specifically made for home air conditioning systems. It uses ions to clean the air while removing bacteria and viruses in the air and the A/C system.
- iWave-R:
We suggest opting for the iWave-R due to its exceptional capability of generating over 160 million ions/cc per polarity, surpassing any other ionizer air purifier available. This amplifies its effectiveness in cleaning and neutralizing airborne particles.
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- REME-HALO:
RFG's cutting-edge technology sets the industry standard for tackling indoor air quality issues. With UV light and other advanced proprietary technologies, the REME-HALO enhances your home's air quality by emitting low levels of hydrogen peroxide into the circulating air. This reduces bacteria, viruses, mold spores, and odors, for clean, fresh air.
- REME-HALO:
We recommend the REME HALO as it stands out as one of the top-tier air purifiers and filter technologies currently available. Plus, it comes with a solid warranty when installed by an HVAC professional.
5. Replace your existing unit with a high-efficiency
Investing in the most energy-efficient HVAC system is a top priority for ensuring your family's comfort and health. Recent breakthroughs in HVAC technology have reshaped the industry’s landscape, introducing smarter, more efficient solutions. Federal regulations have spurred innovation, emphasizing the importance of enhancing indoor air quality.
When you opt for an energy-efficient HVAC system, you get consistently comfortable air temperatures, advanced air filtration, and the flexibility to incorporate additional features like whole-home air purifiers for comprehensive protection. If you’re considering upgrading your current unit or installing a new one, we're here to guide you toward the most energy-efficient HVAC options.
In conclusion
Your family's health begins with the air you breathe at home. At Spurk HVAC, we provide cutting-edge HVAC technology sourced from leading industry brands. We ensure optimal efficiency, prioritizing your family's comfort and well-being year-round.
Contact Spurk HVAC for further details on enhancing your current system or upgrading to a new high-efficiency unit. Our skilled technicians will guide you through the process and address any concerns or questions.
We are well-equipped to inspect, rejuvenate, and if needed, repair any potential issues that may arise. Contact us to schedule your AC maintenance, AC repair, or AC replacement today.
About Spurk HVAC
Spurk HVAC was formed in 2018 and is located in Warrendale, Pennsylvania. We proudly serve Cranberry Twp., Wexford, Gibsonia, Mars, and the surrounding areas. We are an American Standard Customer Care Dealer and a Mitsubishi Diamond Contractor.
Spurk HVAC was formed in 2018 and is located in Warrendale, Pennsylvania. We proudly serve Cranberry Twp., Wexford, Gibsonia, Mars, and the surrounding areas. We are an American Standard Customer Care Dealer and a Mitsubishi Diamond Contractor.
We service all makes and models. Please contact us if you are seeking heating repair, heating system replacement, air conditioner repair, air conditioning maintenance, air conditioning replacement, or any other heating & cooling services. Whether you are looking for residential or commercial HVAC services, we look forward to any and all opportunities to become your preferred HVAC contractor.
