Allergy and hay fever sufferers find refuge inside their homes as a safe place away from pollens and other allergens. If you suffer from allergies, are you finding relief in your home? There is a multitude of allergens that can build up that affect indoor air quality in Charlotte homes, and subsequently our quality of life. Even the effects of everyday health problems like headaches, colds, and sleep problems are often tracked back to poor indoor air quality. That comes from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which estimates that half of all illnesses in the US are attributed to poor indoor air quality. Dusting, vacuuming, and changing the filters (stuff we all do) is not enough to ensure you have good indoor air quality in Charlotte. For some people, the quality of your indoor air can be directly related to quality of life.

WHAT CAN I DO TO IMPROVE INDOOR AIR QUALITY?

But don’t worry, there are effective ways to improve your home’s air quality and contribute to a healthier lifestyle.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that 2 out of 3 indoor air quality health issues involve the heating and air conditioning system. A properly working system helps maintain good indoor air quality. And if you incorporate some of the newer technologies your chances of suffering from poor indoor air quality goes down even more.

AIR FILTRATION

Air filtration is one most of us understand. Inspecting the air filter regularly is important. And changing it before it gets clogged is crucial. How well a system’s mechanical equipment is heating or cooling the air affects air quality as well. Keeping the outside unit free of debris, vines, and weeds is important and something you should do yourself. Inspection and maintenance of the internal workings of the system is a much more advanced task, and you should have a qualified technician perform this twice each year.

AIR SCRUBBERS

Stepping things up to keep your home’s air really clean and fresh, we now have more advanced filtration systems known as air scrubbers. An air scrubber can be installed by a licensed technician that will significantly reduce both surface and airborne contaminants and reduce those airborne particles that cause sneezing, itchy eyes, and poor sleep. Air scrubbers will also reduce odors from pets and cooking.

AIR DUCT CLEANING

What might be the least understood and most overlooked component of your heating and air system that affects indoor air quality is the ductwork. Dirty and leaky ductwork is the major contributor to poor indoor air quality. Not only does this limit the effectiveness of the fan to move air efficiently, dirt and grime in the ductwork promotes growth of mold and mildew, and limits the elimination of air contaminants like pollen.

Cleaning your ductwork might seem like an easy task, but it’s not. It really is best to hire a trained technician for this task. Without the proper equipment and expertise, you are likely to create more problems. You could end up sending more allergens into your home, and worse, cause damage to the ductwork that can cost a lot in repairs and energy loss. If you have it done right by a professional, you’ll be happy you did.

Fixing leaky ductwork is even more challenging – unless you hire a professional with the right knowledge, equipment and expertise. Traditional repair methods involve manual application of tape and mastic, which does have its place on simple repairs in easy to reach locations.  But there are new highly effective duct sealing technologies available today that really make a difference. For example, the Aeroseal system combines multiple processes of leak detection, sealing, and testing that ensures 95% effectiveness at sealing ductwork.  The process involves using pressurized air to mist microscopic particles into the ducts, where they cling to the edges of leaks and form a seal. This process is 60% more effective than traditional sealing procedures of manually applying tape and mastic. Traditional duct sealing procedures can also require cutting holes in walls or ceilings in order to gain access to the ductwork. Aeroseal technology is non-invasive, saving homeowners stress, mess, and money.

Technology in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning has advanced a lot in recent years. A clean and efficient heating and air system may not be exciting or something to show off to your friends, but it can definitely contribute to a healthier and happier home.

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One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® of Charlotte is proud to be the best reviewed AC repair and service company in the greater Charlotte area. Our 30 years of experience with heating and air puts us in a unique position to provide the best service to our customers. One Hour Heating & Air is a licensed installer of Aeroseal and Air Scrubber products. We have the knowledge, the equipment, the expertise, and the desire to help you ensure your indoor air quality is as healthy as possible. Contact us today to find out more or schedule an appointment.