Indoor Air Quality Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: I keep hearing about indoor air quality. Why is that such a big issue, and is it that important?
A: Homes today are tightly sealed to cut energy costs. Unfortunately, this also means there’s very little turnover between indoor and outdoor air. When you consider the many sources of indoor air pollution, like dust, pet hair, cleaners, chemicals, mold, mildew and smoking, it’s no wonder that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says indoor air can be up to 70 times more polluted than outdoor air. It’s also why the American Lung Association says that half of all illnesses are now caused, or aggravated, by indoor air pollution.
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Q: How do I fight indoor air pollution when I can't keep my windows open because of the weather?
A: There are several options, which can be used alone or in combination. These include air exchangers (which exchange indoor air for outdoor air while preserving the temperature indoors and preventing energy loss), HEPA filters, UV (ultraviolet) lights, humidity control units and duct cleaning.
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Q: Why should I consider a high-efficiency air cleaner?
A: High-efficiency air cleaners remove up to 99.97% of airborne contaminants in your home. By getting rid of pollen, dust, mold spores, dust mites, and bacteria these air cleaners can reduce allergy symptoms and illnesses. Please see our (indoor air quality) page for more information on filters and other indoor air quality products.
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Q: What is a HEPA filter?
A: HEPA stands for high efficiency particulate arresting. True HEPA filters can remove up to 99.97% of particulate matter from the air circulating through them. Many companies advertise and sell filters and products as HEPA even though they don’t really meet HEPA standards. HEPA filters remove particles as small as 0.3 microns. This means a properly operating HEPA filter will remove bacteria, viruses and smoke from the air in your home. It’s also the technology used to keep the air in hospital operating rooms clean.
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Q: What is the purpose of a UV (ultraviolet) light in cleaning indoor air?
A: UV lighting is used to sanitize the air in hospital operating rooms, a technique that has been adapted for home use. UV lights are placed in the duct system and near air conditioning coils to literally sterilize biological contaminants. They keep the air in your home free of mold spores, mildew, bacteria, dust mites and viruses. They also prevent the formation of mold and mildew on air conditioning coils, which is a common problem.
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Q: Can my electronic air cleaner work even when the furnace or air conditioning is off?
A: Yes. Set your thermostat fan switch to "on" instead of "auto." The blower will run without your heat or air conditioning running. In fact, this is the best way to get the most out of your home’s air cleaning system.
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Q: How often should I change or clean my air filters?
A: Every home is different, but start by checking filters once a month, then every other month, etc. You can also check by holding disposable filters up to a light; if you can see light through the filter, it’s still clean enough to use.
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Q: Is it normal to hear a crackling sound coming from my electronic air cleaner?
A: Yes. This is normal as long as the sound is not constant or repetitive. Occasionally, a large particle in the air stream will impinge on the electronic cells causing a high static discharge and consequent crackling sound.
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Q: My home is very dry. What’s the best way to add humidity?
A: You can add a whole-house or area humidifier. Humidifiers improve winter comfort, reduce energy bills and protect your health. Please see our Humidification/Dehumidification page for more information or call us for a free brochure and estimate.
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Q: What setting should I use for my humidifier's humidistat?
A: Start by setting the humidistat as high as it will go. If you feel that the house is over-humidified for any reason (as evidenced by moisture on the windows, for instance), then lower the setting a bit (5% to 10%). Continue lowering the setting a little at a time until the humidity seems right.
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If you have questions other than those listed above, send us an email or give us a call at (610) 566-7600.
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