Indoor air quality is extremely important to the health of the occupants of any commercial or residential building, especially those with respiratory issues, such as asthma and allergies. Pollen, mold, dust, fumes from building materials and animal dander are all some of the items, which can negatively impact indoor air quality. There are a number of means to improve indoor air quality including filters, humidifiers and properly introducing outside air into the ventilation system.
Filters work by trapping the unhealthy materials in a filter media as the air passes thru the filter. Available filters include a variety of HEPA filters, as well as electronic air cleaners. In order to function properly, the filters must be replaced or cleaned on a regular basis. Properly used humidifiers will improve air quality by introducing moisture into the air, which makes the air less dry and easier to breathe. The downside to humidifiers is that the possibility of introducing mold into the air if the wrong type of humidifier is used or the humidifier is not kept clean. The introduction of outside air into the building is an excellent means to improve indoor air quality, as the HVAC is conditioning fresh air and is basically continuously changing out the air in the commercial or residential structure.
While each system is effective, the best way to determine how to improve indoor air quality is to have the indoor air quality tested. Once the items negatively impacting the quality of the air are identified, the best solution or combination of solutions can be implemented to improve the quality of the air. In some cases filters may be the answer, while in other cases, filters, humidifiers and outside air may be the best solution.
Posted on behalf of Find Local HVAC
