The Bay Area is known for having “good” air quality but is the air quality inside your home just as good? Indoor air quality can be affected by things like:
- Outdoor pollution
- Wildfires
- Gas appliances
- Mold and mildew
- Off-gassing of building materials
The air quality in your home affects every area of your health, including your sleep quality and immune system. By improving it, you benefit your well-being and comfort level. AIS Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help you pick the right air purifier for your home.
Understanding Air Purifiers
An air purifier is a device that improves indoor air quality by removing airborne contaminants. They capture and eliminate pollutants like:
- Dust
- Pet dander
- Pollen
- Mold spores
- Smoke
- Volatile organic compounds.
Types of air purifiers include:
- HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters: This filter works by trapping particles when air passes through it. It uses mechanical processes like direct interception, internal impaction, diffusion, and sieving.
- Activated carbon filters: This filter works by using activated carbon to remove impurities and contaminants from the air through absorption.
- UV (ultraviolet) light purifiers: This filter uses UV-C light, which has germicidal properties capable of destroying the DNA or RNA of microorganisms to render them inactive.
- Ozone generators: This filter produces ozone gas (O3), which has strong oxidizing properties, to break down pollutants and neutralize odors.
Signs You Might Need an Air Purifier
You may still be wondering if an air purifier would be beneficial for your home. If you have cats, dogs, birds, or other high-dander pets, they can severely impact the quality of your indoor air, in addition to the impact of daily outdoor air quality.
Poor indoor air quality can affect things like allergies and asthma, worsening your respiratory issues. With pets come the messes they make such as litter boxes or accidents, which can leave an unpleasant odor in your air. Air purifiers will also address these issues, leaving your air smelling fresh.
Benefits of Using an Air Purifier
Air purifiers have many benefits, such as removing allergens, pollutants, and toxins. They can also reduce allergy symptoms and respiratory issues because of the lighter pollutant load of your air. They effectively eliminate cooking, pet, and smoke odors, improving the overall atmosphere of your home.
Considerations Before Purchasing an Air Purifier
Before purchasing your air purifier, you need to be certain of what size unit you need to ensure your home is being covered effectively. You’ll also want to think about the cost of air filters and how frequently you’ll be changing them.
If you work from home and often have business calls, you’ll want to consider how operational noises may affect your day-to-day life. You’ll also want to think about energy-efficient models, which will help lower your long-term operational costs.
Integrating Air Purifiers with HVAC Systems
Whole-home air purifiers can be integrated into your existing HVAC system. While a DIY installation may sound tempting, working with a licensed HVAC technician will save you time and money in the long run. A professional installation will see that your unit is installed safely and correctly so you can get the highest efficiency from its operation.
Integrating an air purifier into your HVAC system involves placing the system in the return air ductwork, usually before the air handler or furnace, to ensure the air is filtered before it’s circulated into your home.
Because of having to dismantle and reassemble your ductwork, DIY installations are not suggested. Activated carbon filters and UV-C light purifiers are two models that are especially effective when integrated into your HVAC system.
Let AIS Heating & Air Conditioning Help with Your Air Quality
AIS Heating & Air Conditioning is family-owned and locally operated, meaning we understand the indoor air pollution issues local homeowners face.
Our upfront pricing and free estimates on new equipment will make sure you’re getting the best price possible, while our Diamond-certified, reliable, trustworthy, and knowledgeable HVAC technicians will see that the job is done right.
Contact AIS Heating & Air Conditioning today to schedule indoor air quality services for your home.