Many homeowners are surprised to discover that their indoor air is more polluted than outdoors. This phenomenon can happen for many reasons. Sometimes there are unexplained illnesses that individuals residing in a household might experience. The illnesses, which are often respiratory-related do not always affect everyone residing in the household. This is why it might get dismissed as allergies or the affected individual(s) having a weak immune system. Thankfully, HVAC contractors have the equipment to test indoor air quality (IAQ). The tests can detect contaminants, and this can aid in choosing a residential air purification system to improve IAQ. The following points identify types of air purification systems and which contaminants they remove from indoor air.
Carbon-Activated Filters
This is an effective and easy solution. These filters have pores that attract contaminants. However, the pores are impenetrable and do not permit the contaminants to pass through. Carbon-activated filters are ideal for removing particles from smoke and chemicals. They are also effective for eliminating odors.
HEPA Filters
These filters can be considered as a total air purification solution. The filters get installed in HVAC systems, and they are designed to trap all types of indoor air pollutants. The size of the contaminants is not an issue. HEPA filters can trap contaminants ranging from microscopic size to large particles such as pet hair and dust.
Ionic Air Purifiers
This type of purification involves sending a charge out that causes airborne contaminants to clump together and settle on surfaces where they can be later cleaned away. If there is a filtration system in place, it might attract and trap the conglomerated particles mid-air.
Electrostatic Purifiers
This purifying option utilizes static electricity to attract small particles. It can remove bacteria, mold spores, and viruses from the air. The trapped particles get trapped in the purifier's washable filter.
UV Light Purifiers
UV light purifiers are also used to kill viruses and bacteria. HVAC technicians install UV lighting in HVAC systems to strategically kill pathogens. This technology was first implemented in healthcare settings. However, it is now available for residential purification. It is most effective when used in conjunction with a filter solution.
An HVAC contractor is a good resource to use to understand more about IAQ and how poor indoor air quality can negatively impact health. Depending on which contaminant they find, more than one type of purification might be necessary. For example, if there are concerns about tobacco smoke and sickness from bacteria and viruses, a dual solution would need to be implemented.
To learn more about air purification, contact a local HVAC service.
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