Advanced Air Quality Consultants, Author at Advanced Air Quality Consultants

Why Stove Vents are Important for your Health

The kitchen is one of the busiest rooms in any home. It’s where we cook, clean, and often eat. This means that there is a lot of potential for cooking fumes and other airborne contaminants to build up.

Stove Vents Keep Your Air Healthy

One way to help prevent this is to make sure that your stove vent is operating properly. A good stove vent will help to remove contaminants from the air, making it healthier for you and your family.

Picking the Right Stove Vent

There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a stove vent. First, you’ll want to make sure that it’s the right size for your stove. If it’s too small, it won’t be effective at removing contaminants.

Second, you’ll want to choose a stove vent that has a high CFM rating. This stands for “cubic feet per minute,” and it indicates how much air the vent can move. The higher the CFM rating, the better the vent will be at removing contaminants.

Clean Stove Vents Frequently

Finally, you’ll want to make sure that the vent is easy to clean. Some vents can be difficult to clean, which means that contaminants can build up over time. Choose a vent that is easy to disassemble and clean so that you can keep it in top condition.

Stove vents are an important part of any kitchen. Make sure that yours is the right size, has a high CFM rating, and is easy to clean. This will help to ensure that your kitchen is a healthy place for you and your family.

How to Reduce Campfire Smoke from Affecting your Home’s Air Quality

If you’re one of the many people who regularly enjoy sitting around a bonfire, you may be concerned about the smoke affecting your home’s air quality. There are a few things you can do to help reduce the amount of smoke that gets into your lungs and causes problems.

Keep the Fire Further from the House

To help reduce the amount of smoke that gets into your home, keep the fire as far away from your house as possible. If you have a backyard, try to build the fire at least 20 feet away from any buildings.

Use Dry Wood

One of the best things you can do is make sure the wood you’re burning is dry. Wet wood produces a lot more smoke than dry wood, so it’s important to only burn wood that’s been properly seasoned. You can also try using logs that are smaller in diameter, as they’ll produce less smoke.

Properly Construct the Fire

Another thing you can do is build your fire in a way that allows for better airflow. This means avoiding smoldering fires, as they produce a lot of smoke. Instead, build your fire in a way that allows the flames to breathe. This will help reduce the amount of smoke produced.

By following these tips, you can help to reduce the amount of bonfire smoke that affects your air quality. Enjoy your time around the fire while still keeping your lungs healthy!

Do Open Windows Bring Allergens into the Home?

Open windows are a great way to bring fresh air into your home, but they can also increase the number of indoor allergens. Here are some things you should know about open windows and allergies:

– First of all, while having outdoor exposure is very important for helping your body to build its immunity to allergens, it is not the only way. If you have indoor allergies, you can also help to control them by reducing the number of allergens in your home.

– One way to do this is to keep your windows closed when possible, especially during high pollen times of the year.

– Another way to limit indoor allergens is to use an air purifier in your home. Air purifiers can help to remove allergens from the air, making it easier to breathe.

– If you have severe allergies, you may also want to consider using a HEPA filter in your home. HEPA filters are designed to remove very small particles from the air, including allergens.

– Finally, you can also take steps to limit the amount of dust in your home. Dust attracts and holds pollen, and can make it more difficult to control allergies indoors. To reduce dust, remove clutter from your home and dust regularly with a damp mop or cloth.

At the end of the day, open windows are great for bringing fresh air into your home. However, if you have allergies, it is important to take steps to limit the number of allergens that come in with the fresh air. By following these tips, you can help to reduce your symptoms and enjoy the outdoors more comfortably.

Do Hypoallergenic Products Really Reduce Allergens in the Home?

There is no doubt that hypoallergenic products can help reduce allergens in the home. By definition, a hypoallergenic product causes fewer allergic reactions than other types of products. This is because they are made with fewer allergens and ingredients that can trigger reactions.

If you are looking for ways to reduce allergens in your home, using hypoallergenic products is a good place to start. In particular, look for products that are labeled as “hypoallergenic.” This will help ensure that you are getting the best possible protection against allergens.

In addition to using hypoallergenic products, you can also take other steps to reduce allergens in your home. These include:

– Vacuuming regularly.

– Washing bedding and curtains often.

– Keeping pets out of the bedroom.

– Removing carpets and rugs.

– Opening windows and using fans to circulate air.

By following these tips, you can help reduce the number of allergens in your home and improve your quality of life.

Remember, though, that hypoallergenic products are not a cure-all. It is still important to take other steps to reduce allergens in your home, such as cleaning regularly and using air filters. By combining hypoallergenic products with these other measures, you can create a safe and healthy environment for yourself and your family.

How to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality Before Spring

While many people believe that poor indoor air quality is only a concern during the winter months, when the use of furnaces and other heating sources increases the levels of indoor air pollution, this problem is actually year-round. And, as many of us know, when the air quality is poor, our health can be affected.

Springtime can wreak havoc on those suffering from seasonal allergies. Because of this, it’s important to ensure your home’s air quality is improved before allergy season. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to improve the air quality in your home. The following are some tips:

1. Ventilate your home.

One of the best ways to improve the air quality in your home is to ventilate it properly. This means increasing the amount of fresh air that comes in and decreasing the amount of polluted air that is allowed to escape. You can do this by opening windows and doors, using fans, and installing an air exchanger.

2. Clean your home regularly.

Another way to improve the air quality in your home is to clean it regularly. This includes cleaning carpets, furniture, floors, and windows. It’s also important to vacuum and dust regularly.

3. Use plants to improve air quality.

One of the best ways to improve the air quality in your home is to use plants. Plants not only improve the air quality, but they also add beauty to your home and help to create a healthy environment. Some plants that are good for improving air quality include bamboo, English ivy, and Boston fern.

4. Avoid using harsh chemicals.

When cleaning your home, avoid using harsh chemicals, such as bleach. These chemicals can release harmful fumes that can pollute the air in your home.

5. Get your home tested.

If you’re not sure whether the air quality in your home is good or bad, you can have it tested. This can be done by a professional air quality testing company for the most accurate results.

By following these tips, you can help improve the air quality in your home and keep your family healthy in time for Spring.

Your Humidifier May Be Making Your Air Quality Worse

Some people use humidifiers to relieve a dry air problem, but what many people don’t know is that humidifiers can introduce harmful viruses, bacteria, and toxic molds into the air in your home. Dirty humidifiers can cause health problems for people who suffer from asthma or allergies.

Why Your Humidifier Might Be Polluting Your Air

The air you breathe comes from air conditioners, air purifiers, air cleaners, air humidifiers, and air sterilizers. All of these air-moving devices have a common source of air coming from outside. When air conditioners and air purifiers remove air from the home, they bring air into them that is not clean air. It contains dust, pollen spores, germs, and many other irritating particles.

Humidity Levels Can Worsen Air Quality

When air is humidified it increases the humidity level in your home. It also increases the concentration of particles in the air, especially mold spores. These air particles come from several sources throughout your home. They can originate in air ducts, attics, crawl spaces, and basements. They also come from air purifiers, air cleaners, and air conditioners.

Poor Air Quality Contributes to Health Problems

Respiratory problems are not the only illnesses that can be caused by air contaminants. A new study shows air quality in the home can greatly affect your mental health also.

The air we breathe indoors is often more polluted than the air outside. When air is humidified air particles, especially mold spores can become very concentrated. Anything we do to increase the air quality in the home is a big benefit for our health.

How Your Flooring Affects Your Indoor Air Quality

Your home’s air quality affects the air that you breathe in your house. Many people are not aware of how much air moves around their homes. Exposure to air pollutants in indoor air can lead to health problems such as allergies and asthma. If you have carpeting or other flooring material in your home, it is important to know air quality can be affected by your flooring materials.

Different flooring materials have different air-cleaning abilities. For example, carpet facilitates the movement of air around your home and filters dust from the air as it passes through. This puts less dust into the air to be breathed in by you or your family members. Carpet is a porous material that can trap pollutants within its mass. It is a good air filter if it is maintained and cleaned frequently.

Hardwood flooring may attract particles of dust, dirt, mites, or other air pollutants that can cause allergies or asthma. These air contaminants will be attracted to the smooth surface of the hardwood floor, rather than being filtered out of the air as they pass through porous materials.

There are air pollutants that emit from the flooring materials in our homes. There are air quality issues that arise when your floors have poor quality, or if they have problems such as tears and stains. Flooring can also cause air pollution by emitting volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are released when floor coating materials, adhesives, and other finishes on the flooring material break down.
If you want to improve air quality in your home, hiring a professional may be your best bet.
Professionals have the expertise to test air quality, identify air pollutants that may be in your home, and provide you with solutions on how to improve air quality.

Minnesota’s Dry Winter Weather Could Affect Your Health

The MPCA’s air quality website is updated hourly. It gives information on the five major pollutants in the air, including carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and particulate matter. The MPCA recommends that people with health conditions limit physical activity when the air quality is unhealthy. The MPCA also encourages people to take precautions to protect their health. The best time to open windows is in the morning or at night when the air pollution is lower.

While air quality is generally green regularly, different factors can affect it. For example, a cold front can increase or decrease the number of particulates in the air. Weather is another factor that can make air pollution worse. To minimize these issues, it is important to make sure that the temperature and humidity of the area are not too high or too low.

While the air quality in Minneapolis is not ideal for sensitive groups, the region in northeastern Minnesota is generally a better choice. This region has good air quality. However, due to the smoke from the Canadian wildfires, the overall air quality is considered unhealthy these days. The pollutant levels in the Twin Cities metro area will fluctuate between unhealthy and unhealthful for sensitive groups.

What You Need to Know About Asbestos in the Home

Everyone has heard of it, but they might not understand what asbestos is and does to your health. Even if asbestos is in your home, it does not automatically mean it will become a serious health hazard. The presence of asbestosis, in itself, is not hazardous. However, the danger lies in asbestos-containing materials that get damaged over time. Once damaged, they can release fibers, which then leads to serious health problems. Here is what you need to know about asbestos in the home.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a mineral fiber that was used in the past to strengthen heat insulation and fire resistance. It is identifiable with a specific type of microscope. There are many types of asbestos fiber.

What Health Effects Does Asbestos have?

On its own, undamaged asbestos does not pose a harmful threat to our health. It is once the fibers circulate in the air when there is a concern. Many studies were done on people exposed to asbestos in factories and shipyards, it can lead to a risk of developing lung cancer and asbestosis. The more fibers inhaled, the higher the risk. This means those who have prolonged exposure are much more likely to develop the above conditions than those who were minimally exposed.

Is Asbestos a Concern in New Buildings?

Most products made for construction today do not contain asbestos. Any products that do contain asbestos must be labeled as such. However, homes and buildings built pre the 1970s may contain products and insulation materials that contain asbestos.

Even if asbestos is in your home, it is usually not a major cause of concern, unless the fibers have begun circulating in the air. This is why it is important during any major construction or renovation of an older home to be done by professionals.

Why You Should Consider Testing Your New Home’s Air Quality

When you’re buying a new home, you want to make sure that you are moving into a safe space. Most homes will have tests done to ensure it is a safe and livable environment. But oftentimes, new homeowners neglect air quality testing.

Testing the air quality in your home is something every homeowner should consider. There can be many contaminants, ranging from pollutants to mold, that may be present. You may start to notice that the home you just purchased is suddenly making people experience allergy-like symptoms. Here’s why you should always consider professional air quality testing when you purchase a new home.

There Could Be Asbestos

If you are moving into an older home, you should have your home tested for asbestos. Before 1980, asbestos was commonly used in the construction of homes. Removal of asbestos can be incredibly expensive, and if the listed property has not disclosed any air quality tests, it may be smart to have the home tested before you close a deal on it.

If the Home Had Pets

Experiencing allergy symptoms or asthma is not fun for anyone. Pet dander can be a leading cause for many, so if the home had pets before it, it might be smart to have the air quality tested to see which remediation is best.

How Fall Weather Can Contribute to Indoor Air Quality

Poor indoor air quality can affect you at any time of the year, but the fall season can be even more problematic. With summer winding down, you should keep an eye out for fall indoor air quality issues. Here’s why falls can cause issues for indoor air quality.

High Humidity

Believe it or not, much of the early fall season can be pretty humid. While the temperatures go down, rainy weather can often plague the last few nice weeks of Summer. Excessive humidity levels can contribute to mold growth. Another reason why humidity levels tend to rise in the fall is that many homeowners stop running their air conditioners, as the temperature drop. Your AC unit can help[ keep humidity out of your home, but when it isn’t running during humid weather streaks, the indoor humidity can rise.

Temperature Fluctuations

Like spring, fall is a transitional season. Unfortunately, for Minnesota, we only get a short taste of this “transition”. It might feel like it’s a summer day, but within a few weeks, snow isn’t entirely impossible! The change in temperatures can overwork your HVAC system, which could contribute to poor indoor air quality. Autumn is also a season that is high in dust mite pollutants.

If your home’s HVAC system has shown signs of needing maintenance, it is best to get it inspected before the season changes. Fall can pose challenges to our home’s indoor air quality, and it’s always more beneficial to be proactive than reactive when it comes to having our home’s air quality tested and controlled.

How Wildfire Smoke Affects Indoor Air Quality

Due to heavy smoke from Canadian wildfires, Minnesota had issued an air quality alert to a majority of the state. Most notably, northern Minnesota’s air quality index was higher than average for this time, due to the high temperatures and smoke from our neighboring country. So how does smoke from wildfires affect our indoor air quality, and is there any way to prevent it?

How Smoke Affects Air Quality

During a wildfire, the outdoor air becomes very unhealthy to breathe. Living in proximity to these areas can make the air so bad, that local officials advise people to not leave the house. However, the smoke particles are so fine that they can end up infiltrating indoor spaces.

Smoke is a mixture of gases and particles that are produced when materials burn. The largest health threat is the fine particles that emit from the burning of organic and inorganic substances. Even if you are not near the fire itself, you can still be affected by the fine particles. This is why the air quality index in Minnesota has risen due to the Canadian wildfires.

Health Effects of Smoke Exposure

While most Minnesotans won’t experience extreme health concerns, there may be issues for those with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory ailments. Common symptoms, both indoor and outdoor, are a stuffy nose, burning eyes, or even bronchitis. The fine particles can also aggravate lung diseases and even heart diseases.

Why Mold Is More Common In The Summer

While mold can grow indoors at any time of the year, certain environmental and climate factors can directly affect the rate at which it grows. It is the summertime where mold growth can be more prevalent. While the days are sunnier, this means higher levels of heat and humidity, which directly promotes the growth of mold. Fast-growing mold can be hazardous for your health, and it can also cause damage to your home. Here are the reasons why you should be on the lookout for mold in the summer.

High Levels of Humidity

Humidity levels are much higher in the summer, especially in Minnesota. This condition will also worsen in homes with poor ventilation. As temperatures rise and rainfalls, the humidity can increase the risk of mold forming in the home. The hot and wet weather can lead to condensation forming on window sills and doors, and if they are poorly insulated, it could lead to mold growth. Poorly maintained AC units can also cause leaks into your basements, which can create conducive environments for mold. To prevent this, make sure your windows are sealed tight and in good condition, and you should always have your AC unit regularly inspected and cleaned.

Provides Favorable Temperatures For Mold Growth

Mold spores thrive in practically any hot temperatures. The spores are microscopic, which means they are incredibly light. All it takes is for a nice evening breeze to bounce them all around. Since mold requires a source of food to grow, it will typically find its way on organic materials such as wood or paper. If the conditions are right (dark, humid, and warm) the mold will begin to grow rapidly. While most mold prefers dark places, such as a basement, some thrive in daylight.

Persistent Moisture

There are many causes of high moisture in the summertime. Seasons of precipitation will promote the growth of mold, and a poorly insulated home can introduce an abundance of unwanted moisture. Towards the last days of summer, dead leaves on roofs can trap moisture, which will promote the growth of mold.

Mold thrives in hot and humid environments, which means Minnesotan summers are a perfect season for them to thrive. Reducing your home’s moisture in the air will directly prevent the spores that enter from causing much havoc. However, when a mold infestation does occur, it can have severe health implications. Make sure to contact a professional mold testing company if you ever suspect an infestation is occurring in your home.

How Spring Can Affect Indoor Air Quality

It’s spring, which means it’s time to bring in the fresh air! But how fresh is “spring air” exactly? While it is a welcoming gift from nature, the air we breathe during the spring is some of the most polluted air throughout the year. This is especially true for those who suffer from seasonal allergies. Here are the most common springtime pollutants and how you can mitigate them in your home.

Pollen is on the Rise
Spring is the time of pollination. Flowers are blooming, the grass is growing, and the trees are budding. Pollen is typically considered an outdoor pollutant, but practically all outdoor pollutants can manage their way into your home. Having your windows open is, essentially, an open invitation for letting pollen into your home. And if you or your family suffer from seasonal allergies, they will have stuffy noses.

Mold
While mold growth can happen in the home at any time, mold spores are more present in the air during the warmer months. Warm weather leads to more mold growth. And if you live in a temperate or humid climate, there is a higher risk of mold entering your home. Mold spores can cause similar irritation, but if there is a spot in your home that encourages mold growth, it could result in disastrous mold infection.

VOCs
Spring cleaning is a tradition that, as sappy as it may seem, actually occurs very frequently. Because of this, many homeowners use a bunch of cleaners. But this can cause an influx of VOCs in your indoor air, which can result in eye and nose irritation, as well as dizziness and headaches.

How to Combat Springtime Pollutants
First and foremost, you need to change your air filter often. While it is recommended at least every three months, there is no harm in checking it periodically. If it is opaque and grey, it’s time to replace it. The longer a dirty air filter sits in your home, the more your family will suffer.

You should also regularly check pollen counts for your area before you decide to open those windows and doors. Pollen counts fluctuate throughout the season, and if anyone in the home suffers from a specific allergy (i.e, grass or tree pollen), they may have a miserable time inside with the window wide open.

For cleaning, be cognizant of the products you use. Make sure they are relatively safe and won’t cause any harmful reactions.

If you want to learn more about indoor air quality control and how to eliminate indoor pollutants consider contacting a professional air quality consultant company to keep your air clean and your home comfortable.

What Exactly Is Radon And Why Is It So Dangerous?

When we think of pollution, many of us only consider it to be an outdoor hazard. However, our indoor air quality is much more important, as we spend most of our days inside. Aside from common indoor pollutants and dander, there is one relatively dangerous substance that can dramatically affect our health and wellbeing, and it is radon. This radioactive gas often goes undetected for too long, and unfortunately, prolonged exposure to dangerous levels could contribute to lung cancer. Radon exposure is one of the leading causes of lung cancer, right behind smoking. For this reason, you should always consider a radon test for your home. Here’s a brief look at what exactly radon is.

What Is Radon?

Radon is a radioactive gas that naturally occurs. It is colorless and odorless, much like carbon monoxide. Radon is especially concerning to our health if it is inhaled. It can damage our DNA, which can drastically increase our risk of cancer.

How Does Radon Form In The Home?

Radon forms when other radioactive chemicals such as thorium, uranium, or uranium break down in rocks, water, and soil. All of these substances are commonly found in the dirt beneath and around our homes. Any radon gas that is formed from the breakdown can make its way into the home through holes and cracks in the foundations.

How Common Is Radon In The Home?

Radon is a fairly commonly found gas in our homes. The EPA estimates that one in every fifteen homes has some form of elevated radon levels. As the gas is completely odorless and invisible, and since it doesn’t cause any immediate symptoms, many individuals don’t worry about it being a potential problem. However, prolonged exposure can be detrimental to your health.

The only way to determine whether there are high levels of radon in your home is to have it tested. Advanced radon testing is crucial in determining the risk of radon exposure in your home.

Why Air Quality Is Poorer In The Winter

Believe it or not, cold temperatures can lead to worsened air quality in your home. You might notice the pollution from car exhaust and factories more in the winter, but pollution from those is constant throughout the year. So why is it that indoor air quality feels much poorer in the winter? Here’s a brief glimpse at the factors behind it.

Increased Indoor Pollution

If you live in a cold climate, where weather typically drops below freezing for most of the season, this can lead to an uptick in car emissions. Nobody wants to sit in a cold car, so it’s common to let cars idle in the garage or driveway before leaving.

Creating warmth indoors can also lead to an increase in pollution. Furnaces, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, etc, work vigilantly to keep everyone in the house comfortable. Energy production also skyrockets for larger facilities during the winter.

More Time Spent Indoors

As the weather can often be too harsh, many of us find ourselves indoors for most of the day during the winter. This can increase carbon dioxide levels indoors, as well as making us more susceptible to poorly ventilated spaces.

Some homeowners will add extra layers of insulation to their home to combat the cold, such as tighter seals on doors and windows. Because of this, there is less transfer of fresh air. A great way to combat this without needing to open your doors and windows is by installing air purifiers for home ventilation systems.

Temperature Inversion May Be A Significant Concern

When the weather gets so cold, it traps pollutants near the ground. This is known as a temperature inversion. This occurs when a layer of warm air sits right above the cold air on the surface. This acts like a “cap” that can trap the allergens and pollutants. This is common in areas where wood-burning occurs. Ever notices the burning smell in your neighborhood during the winter? This could be due to temperature inversion.

Weather inversion can be temporary, or it can last for long periods. Unless there are frequent weather events, such as a snowstorm, rain, or strong wind, the pollutants can linger for much of the season.

How Often Should You Test Your Indoor Air Quality?

Your home’s air quality affects your overall wellbeing and health. When there are too many pollutants present in your home’s air, it can cause eye, throat, and nose irritation, especially if anyone has allergies to them.

Professional indoor air quality tests should be done regularly because it can help uncover what is in the air you breathe every day. Whether there is a buildup of dander, pollen, bacteria, or mold, just an abundance of one can cause illnesses in the home.

What Contributes To Poor Indoor Air Quality?

There are many common household products and elements that affect your indoor air quality. Wood, gas, tobacco, cleaning/disinfectant products, and hairsprays all can contribute to poor air quality. Opening the windows regularly can help release the pollutants, however, this can also be harmful to the overall air quality, especially in the warmer months. During the Spring and Summer, there is more pollen outside. For those with seasonal allergies, this can cause undesirable symptoms in the home.

How Air Quality is “Fixed”

The only true way to “fix” your indoor air quality is by hiring a professional to check the levels in the home. The tests conducted by professional air quality consultants will identify the overall levels of irritants in your home. Of course, once this has been identified, there will be a resolution to clearing out the pollutants.

When To Have Your Air Quality Tested

While you don’t need to have your home’s air quality checked constantly, there are times where you should have a professional look at your home’s air quality. If you have any extensive structural changes, such as home renovations, you may want to have your home’s air quality checked. You should also get your air quality tested if you or someone in the household has been diagnosed with a health condition, or if you have welcomed a new infant to the home. You will also benefit from getting a test done if anyone has also developed any sudden symptoms, such as scratchy throat, itchy eyes, or anything indicative of an allergic reaction.

4 Common Household Pollutants

What comes to mind when you think of polluted air? Many would imagine a thick layer of smog in a densely populated area. However, did you know that your indoor air can be just as poor as what you see outside? Poor air quality can lead to a plethora of health problems, especially for those who suffer from allergies and asthma. These are the top four common household products that can contribute to poor indoor air quality.

Cleaners and Disinfectants

While many find the fresh scent of a clean home pleasant, many cleaning products on the market contain volatile organic compounds, also known as VOCs. VOC exposure can have both short and long-term health effects. Common products such as bleach, detergents, oven cleaners, and carpet cleaners typically contain VOCs.

Aerosol Spray

In addition to cleaning products, aerosol products also contain VOCs. Aerosol products are typically seen as hairsprays, disinfectant sprays, deodorizers, shaving cream, and many, many more. Reducing your use of aerosol products will help with preventing poor air quality.

Paints

It is almost unavoidable to encounter paint in your home at some point. However, lingering paint cans and other materials can contribute to poor air quality. Because, like everything else on this list, paint contains VOCs. After doing a paint job, remove the canisters as soon as you can. You should also air out rooms a bit to help bring some fresh air into the home. There are also paints with low VOC levels, so opt-in for those whenever you plan on doing some painting.

Scented Products

Candles and air fresheners will always make a room smell fantastic, but they can also lead to indoor air pollution. Many scented candles produce soot, VOCs, and formaldehyde. For those with severe asthma, this can lead to many complications. Natural candles that are made with soy or beeswax will be better if you love candles.

Air fresheners are also another culprit of indoor air pollution. The name is incredibly misleading. They don’t do anything with “purifying the air”–they only mask odors. Air fresheners contain many chemicals that can irritate our respiratory system as well as lead to headaches and migraines.

Does the HVAC System Play a Role in Spreading Covid-19?

Although it feels like we have been living with Covid-19 for what seems like years, there is still a lot we are uncovering about the highly contagious virus. Covid-19 is primarily spread via airborne droplets from infected people, which means there’s a possible risk of airborne transmission. This raises the question, does an HVAC system play a role in its spread?

Viral particles don’t typically range in size. Usually, they are around .1 microns, and they travel long distances. Larger droplets, ones that can be hundreds of sizes larger, typically only travel a couple of meters. Small droplets will usually evaporate before they settle on any surface. This means they may linger in the air.

There is still a mountain of research that needs to be done, as we don’t fully know how long it can last in the air. The World Health Organization initially believed there was little to no known airborne transmission, however, they have since changed their stance. Some studies suggest it may only last a few hours in the air.

The Role of an HVAC System Has

Since HVAC systems play a crucial role in ventilating rooms, they may be responsible for spreading virus particles. Because of this, there can be ways to mitigate spreading the virus by adjusting HVAC settings.

An HVAC system can be configured to promote fresh air exchange and reduce circulation. Continuously running the system could help replace the air without speeding up the airflow. This prevents the need for shutting down the system. And because everyone is trying their hardest to reduce the spread, optimizing indoor ventilation can be a great step in that direction.

How an HVAC System Can Prevent the Spread

Optimizing an HVAC system’s settings could improve air quality and lower the risk of spreading Covid-19. For older systems, it might be time to upgrade some parts. Some examples are: improving airflow systems, installing purification systems, and making the switch from fixed-speed motors to variable-speed.

Filtration is the simplest method for purifying the air. Other options include thermal sterilization or irradiation, which is a process that inactivates biological particles (a.k.a virus particles). Another great route to explore is an ozone generator, as well as an ionic purifier.

The jury is still out as to whether a building’s HVAC system has a significant role in spreading Covid-19. However, anyway, we can slow down the spread of the novel virus is worth imploring.

The Most Common HVAC Myths

HVAC SERVICE MYTHS AND FACTS
A lot of people have differing ideas on HVAC services and repairs. So how do you know what is a myth and what is the truth? Here are the five biggest myths regarding HVAC repair services.

Myth #1: You should only replace your filter once a year
Truth: This is one of the biggest HVAC myths out there. And not only is this a big myth, but it is also a big mistake! You should be changing your filter once a month, not every year. Too many people either forget to replace it, or they believe that you only need to do it once a year. This is even worse for households that have pets.

Myth #2: The bigger the HVAC, the better
Truth: When it comes to HVAC systems, bigger doesn’t always mean better. Especially if it’s for a residential setting. Large HVAC systems are designed for large buildings, not houses. It can be less efficient for a home. Incorrectly sized HVAC systems will have a difficult time eradicating humidity in your home. This is why it is crucial to have a professional HVAC service company to evaluate the best size for your home.

Myth #3: Don’t repair your HVAC unless it’s broken
Truth: When you own a car, you bring it in for routine maintenance. The last thing you’ll want is for it to break down while you’re driving it. Like a car, your HVAC system should have regular checkups done. Inspections ensure that everything is working, which can prevent any unexpected and outrageous costs from happening.

Myth #4: You can easily find air leaks around your home.
Truth: You would think it’s simple to find an air leak in your home, but it can be impossible for an ordinary homeowner to find them all. Even the biggest leaks can be difficult to spot. An experienced HVAC technician will be able to find and fix any leak. They’re well versed in all the ins-and-outs, so you can trust their guided expertise.

Myth #5: The only way to effectively heat the home is by cranking the thermostat
Fact: While it’s clear that your thermostat controls the overall temperature of your home, in reality, it won’t ever achieve the level of comfort with a faulty HVAC system. There are many factors for why your home won’t heat up, which could come down to its overall insulation. Scheduling regular maintenance will ensure that your home will always reflect the desired temperature.

The Importance Of Maintaining Your Air Conditioning System During Summer

Air conditioners have made life a lot more comfortable for employees in the summertime. After all, we rely on these systems to keep us cool throughout the warmest of days when we dare not step outside.
However, like all mechanical devices, air conditioners require regular maintenance. This is especially true during the summertime when cooling systems are running near-constantly.

The importance of air conditioner maintenance

Most people think about air conditioning maintenance only once their cooling unit has stopped working. But the truth is that most air cooling systems require regular maintenance to function at their best. Failing to take care of your cooling system will eventually lead to it breaking down and requiring extensive repairs.

Why do air conditioners need maintenance?

Air conditioners rely on their external condenser coils to deliver cool air to the inside of your office. These coils have a natural tendency to accumulate dirt and dust over time. However, using your air conditioning more frequently (such as in the summer) can speed up the rate at which particles build up in the coils.

When enough dust and/or dirt accumulate, they will act as a barrier between the air blowing over the condenser coils and the heat from the refrigerant traveling through coils themselves.

On a clean coil, the heat from this refrigerant would be expelled outside your office. However, when a significant layer of dirt and dust cakes the surface of your coils, they won’t be able to expel heat as effectively.

This reduced cooling capacity leads people to run their air conditioning for longer, which only drives up their energy bill. If that wasn’t bad enough, your air conditioner will eventually break down from being overworked.

No business owner wants to be stuck without conditioning at their office. Maintaining a cool office temperature is crucial during summer months to ensure your employee and customers are comfortable.

In addition to providing cool air, well-maintained air conditioners can filter out some pollutants such as dust and bacteria to deliver clean air to the inside of your office.

How often should I maintain my air conditioning?

Air conditioner maintenance should be performed at least once a year. Many business owners service their cooling systems right before summer rolls around.

How is air conditioner maintenance done?

It’s possible to perform air conditioner system maintenance yourself. You will need to access the evaporator coils behind your unit in order to clean them.

However, these are usually located behind a panel, so you may need to unscrew some components. You can then clean the dirt buildup using compressed air or a brush.

For more heavy-duty cleaning, you may have to use commercial cleaner or detergent. Some cases require the use of pressure washers and steam cleaners, which may be difficult for untrained people to use.

If you’re not up to the task of maintaining your air conditioning system yourself, you should seek the services of a professional air conditioner technician.

What Does Springtime Mean for Indoor Air Quality?

Springtime. The sun is shining, the snow is melting, and the windows are wide open. Springtime, to many, is a breath of fresh air. But while the outdoor air is refreshing, it’s another story for indoors. Indoor air quality tends to be poorer in the warmer months, as pollen counts increase. So how exactly does our indoor air quality fare during the springtime, and what contributes to it?

Cleaning Chemicals

Spring cleaning is a common practice for many, as it is the time to air out the home of all the winter must. Scrubbing down surfaces with chemical cleaners is the go to for many, but this can do more harm to your air quality. The chemicals present in the cleaners can linger and pollute your air. If you’re concerned, you should opt in for natural cleaners. These are less harsh but can get the job done. Plus, you won’t need to worry about containing your air!

Pollen

As beautiful as the flowers and plants are, this blooming transition can wreak havoc on our air quality. Seasonal allergies flare up around this time a year, due to the immense amount of pollen floating around. And if you have an air conditioner, you might be harboring onto a high pollen count indoors, which can make it more difficult to breathe for those afflicted from seasonal allergies.

How to Improve Indoor Air Quality

Keeping a constant cleaning schedule, such as regularly vacuuming and dusting, can tremendously help with improving your indoor air quality. Make sure you are cleaning the blades on your ceiling fans and dusting any debris that has accumulated at the vents. If you’re planning to do a deep spring clean, consider getting your air ducts professionally cleaned. While this can be an investment, you only need to do this once every three to five years.

Radon Mitigation 101: Frequently Asked Questions

Radon can pose a danger to the occupants of any home or building. It is odorless and invisible, so you would not know if it is affecting you. The EPA recommends a radon mitigation system if radon tests show a level of 4pCi\L or higher.

What Does Radon Do?

Probably the worst side effect of radon exposure is lung cancer. It can also cause or exacerbate bronchitis, pneumonia, and you could find yourself coughing up blood. Radon can also increase the humidity in your basement if it infiltrates the soil, leading to mold and other nasties.

How Is Radon Mitigated?

There are several types of radon mitigation systems, and which one is used will depend on the type of foundation. They may involve using underground pipes along with an exhaust fan. This will remove any radon gas that has built up under the concrete and prevent it from getting into your home. Mitigating radon also involves sealing off cracks and openings. This will not only keep radon from entering your home, but make your HVAC system more effective, which can help lower radon levels.

Who Can Help Reduce Radon Levels?

Reducing radon levels is a job for professionals with specific training and expertise. Not just any contractor can perform this job properly. Radon contractors are licensed and listed with various state and national organizations to ensure that you are hiring a true radon mitigation specialist.

Will I Need More Testing After the Initial Mitigation?

In most cases, a radon reduction system will also include installing a monitor that will let you know when it requires servicing. You should also test your home regularly to make sure the radon levels have not risen. A good timeframe is every 2 years, so you can catch it if the levels are getting too high.

Why You Should Get Your Ducts Cleaned During Winter

Duct cleaning is probably not one of your common concerns in the winter. Mostly it would be in the spring, when seasonal allergies start to be a problem. However, allergies can be frustrating all year round, so cleaning your ducts, even in the winter, can help with this.

Winter Allergies

Mold, dust mites, and pet dander do not hibernate during the winter. They circulate throughout your home through the ducts and can wreak havoc on your allergies. As you probably spend more time indoors during this time, they can hit especially hard. This is especially an issue when it’s very cold, since your furnace will be running more.

Fight Colds and Flu

Airborne illnesses tend to be more widespread in the winter when people stay indoors. The contaminated air is easily spread when people are exposed for longer periods of time in enclosed spaces. Cleaning the ducts will sanitize the air and help prevent spreading illness. It will improve the air quality and keep your family breathing easier.

A Sweeter Smell

With everyone spending so much more time indoors, it can start to smell a little bit. This includes children and dogs. Pet hair can build up, people sweat and get dirty, and all of those scents can spread throughout the home through the ducts. Clean ducts will help keep the air smelling fresher and make your time indoors more pleasant.

More Efficient

If your ducts are blocked, then your furnace will have to work harder to properly heat your home. Cleaning them out will help your furnace run more efficiently. This will extend the life of your furnace, and lower your energy costs.

Allergies and air quality are not only issues during the summer months. Make sure that you are prepared by having your ducts cleaned before the winter.

Winter Mold Prevention Tips

Mold is often associated with humid and hot temperatures. That would imply that you wouldn’t have to worry about it as much in the winter, but that is just not true. Mold can develop and grow in the right circumstances in winter as well. Not only that, but you probably spend more time indoors in winter, which means that bad air quality can affect you even more. The most important thing to do to prevent mold during the winter is to prevent moisture from building up and keeping your home at a low level of humidity. Here are some tips.

Dehumidify

Cold winter air is dry, which is why you can get chapped lips if you spend time outdoors. Many people will run a humidifier in the winter to keep the air from getting too dry indoors. However, if a room gets over-humidified, then it can encourage mold growth. If you need to run a humidifier, try one with a setting to maintain at a certain level. Ideally, your indoor humidity level should be below 60%. If you have naturally high humidity levels in your home, then a dehumidifier can help reduce those levels.

Insulation

It turns out that some homes with mold issues have insulation problems that are the culprit. If you do not have insulation inside your exterior walls, then condensation may start to build up. This in turn leads to mold that you may not even be able to see. The insulation in your walls should meet current health standards so that you will not be the victim of mold from not having enough insulation.

Towel-Dry Wet Spots

There are a few spots in your home that are susceptible to moisture and wetness during the winter. These include window sills, pipes, and other places that are affected by the outside cold. Preventing mold may be a simple case of towelling off these spots on a regular basis. Do a tour of your home to see where there may be an issue, and keep towels handy in those locations so that you can do a regular wipe. Make sure that the towels don’t just sit around, though. Keep them dry as well.

Run Your Fans Backwards

A ceiling fan that runs clockwise can be a big part of keeping your home mold free. If you run it this way, it will pull up warm air and distribute it along the ceiling and walls. This will help dry out any condensation. Fans will also keep air circulating, which can make it harder for mold to take hold.

Attic Inspection

The attic is a hotspot for mold in the winter. During the summer, the shingles on your roof are very effective at deflecting the fast moving water down to your gutters. However, in the winter, ice and snow build up on your roof, and then can slowly melt from either the sun or even the heat from your home. This slow-melting moisture it difficult to stop, and it can seep into your attic, where it will help feed mold buildup. Make sure to inspect your attic and either repair trouble spots or dry up water that leaks through.

Exhaust Fans

Exhaust fans in your bathroom and kitchen will help remove moisture from your home so that it can’t build up. They are especially important after you have taken a shower and after boiling water or cooking something on the stovetop. They will also prevent the air from getting stagnant.

Mold should be something you worry about all year round. Use these tips to keep your home mold free in the winter.

News