The global transmission of COVID-19 has likely flipped your regular schedule all over the place.

When things feel uncertain you can take comfort in knowing your house is your safe area. You’re probably spending more time there now. Consequently your indoor air quality is now more important than ever.

Did you realize we can install indoor air quality products in your house that provide hospital-grade filtration? These solutions can clear bacteria from your air, as well as allergens, odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Today’s homes are firmly closed, which is good for energy efficiency. But it also means your inside air might be worse than the air outside. In fact, the EPA says it can be two to five times worse than outdoors. This might cause a problem since we spend about 90% of our days in a building.

There are many things that can lead to poor indoor air quality, like cleaning products and air fresheners. These could result in headaches and worsen allergies and asthma.

There’s a combination of things you can do to enhance your air quality. Some include upgraded air filters, an air purification system or an ultraviolet (UV) germicidal light.

Unsure which solution is best for your residence? Our skilled techs can do an indoor air quality audit. Based upon the outcome, we can then advise you on the best choice for your household’s distinct needs.

Continue reading to learn more about the air quality equipment we provide.

Air Filtration

When comparing air filters, it’s important to review the MERV rating, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. This gauges how efficiently it filters pollutants.

One of the most average and least expensive filters, flat fiberglass filters, are graded between 1 and 4 on the MERV scale. Pleated filters are somewhat better, rated between 8 and 12.

We suggest buying at least MERV 13, like the HC13 Media Air Cleaner, for the most ideal results. This filter gives clearer air while lowering energy needs.

High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are deemed the best in air filtration, since they’re typically installed in hospitals. They’re effective at capturing 99.97–99.99% of indoor pollutants, like pollen, pet dander and smoke.

Ahead of installing a more powerful filter, give us a call at 507-387-6596. Our professionals can help you find the most ideal match for your system.

Air Purification

Lennox offers some of the best air purification systems you can get. PureAir™ S and Healthy Climate™ PureAir Air Purification Systems offer hospital-grade filtration while handling all kinds of indoor air contaminants.

This powerful equipment can take care of:

  • 99.9% of allergens, such as pollen, dust and pet dander.
  • 95% of bacteria-sized particles, like ones that lead to strep throat.
  • 50% of VOCs and odors within 24 hours.

UV Germicidal Lights

A UV germicidal light is placed on the inside of your comfort unit. Its powerful rays eradicate bacteria and mold within seconds.

If your family struggles with allergies or asthma, this system might offer relief. Especially if you reside in a muggy area where bacteria and mold thrive.

This light also has an additional advantage for your heating and cooling equipment. It may help it run for a greater period of time and heat and cool more efficiently, as it keeps the internal parts clean.

Our air quality engineers recommend installing one of these lights with an enhanced filter, such as our Carbon Clean 16® Media Air Cleaner, for the best effect. This filter delivers industry-leading MERV 16 filtration plus carbon-coated fibers to trap particles in your home’s air. It completes this without limiting your comfort unit’s airflow.

Whole-Home Humidifiers

Getting even humidity in your residence may help keep your family from getting sick when it’s cold. It can help with sore throats, itchy skin and chapped lips, in addition to further cold weather bothers.

If you aren’t aware of what your house’s humidity range is, we’ll determine it when we complete your indoor air quality audit. While the range varies based upon outdoor temperatures, HVAC professionals typically suggest keeping it between 40–60 percent.

You can achieve this optimal range by using a whole-home humidifier. This unit typically works with your furnace or air handler to give optimum humidity throughout your home. Some units, like the Healthy Climate® Whole-Home Power Humidifier, have an incorporated fan to circulate humidity when your heating equipment isn’t on.

Turn to the Experts for Your Indoor Air Quality Needs

At Northern Comfort Inc, we’re committed to making your house more relaxing. That’s why we offer Lennox air quality products, which are the most complete solution you can buy.

We’re also more than just your heating and cooling company. We’re concerned about the well-being of you and your family. That’s why we’re taking extra precautions when we visit your house.

To discover more about our air quality solution, give us a call at 507-387-6596 or contact us online. Our friendly staff can also answer any worries you may have with a pro arriving at your residence now.

*Based on in-duct testing that shows Healthy Climate® filters reduce airflow restriction. Greater restriction of airflow creates a greater load on a unit’s fan motor, increasing energy consumption.