Everyone knows how important air conditioning systems are in the heat of summer, and the necessity of furnaces or other types of heating system in the cold of winter. But as important as temperature is in determining your household comfort levels, it’s not the only factor you need to consider. Dust and dirt can wreak havoc with your family’s comfort and health as well, as can germs and mold which may grow in the quiet corners of your home.
Humidity levels are always a factor in Oregon too, with muggy air dominating in the summer and dry air arriving in the winter. All of these factors contribute to your household comfort levels, and unfortunately, a heating and air conditioning system just isn’t set up to accommodate them.
The solution is an indoor air quality product or IAQ product, designed to address the specific issue and work in conjunction with your HVAC system to maximize efficiency and comfort. Since every home is different, and thus has different comfort issues in need of addressing, the IAQ product you need depends a lot on the specifics. We’ve included a quick list of some of the more common ones below, to give you an idea of the kinds of options you have.
Electronic Air Cleaners
Air conditioning systems come with filters designed to screen out dust, dirt, pet hair and other contaminants. They do the job, but they need to be replaced periodically, and can often create a mess in the process. Electronic air cleaners can do a much more effective job. They work in conjunction with your air conditioner, which cycles air through the system as it runs. The air passes through an ionization chamber, which ionizes the dust particles – no matter how small – and causes them to stick to a collection plate: removing them from the air stream. Not only does that result in a cleaner house, but less dust will settle on the components of your air conditioner itself, helping it run more smoothly.
UV Air Purifiers
If you’re more concerned with germs or biological contaminants than dust, you might look into a UV air purifier, which shines an ultraviolet light across the apex of your ducts. The light is harmless to us, and to other multicellular organisms like pets. But it will instantly kill any germs, viruses or bacteria that encounter it. As the air conditioner runs, it will scrub your air clean of biological contaminants, resulting in a happier and healthier household overall.
Humidifiers and Dehumidifiers
If the air in your home is too dry, it will make heating more difficult, as well as resulting in dry, cracked skin and other mild health issues. If it’s too muggy, it will feel hotter than it should and foster the growth of mold and bacteria. Heaters and air conditioners can crudely address their respective issues, but doing so adds a lot of stress and strain. A whole-house humidifier and dehumidifier can help you keep a handle on the moisture in the air properly.
For quality IAQ product installation and service in Oregon City, OR, call The Clean Air Act!
Tags: Dehumidifier, Indoor Air Quality, Oregon City, UV Air Purifier
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