Creating a healthy home environment is crucial for your family’s well-being. The key lies in properly maintaining your heating and cooling system to keep germs and bacteria at bay. At Affordable Comfort Heating and Cooling, we strive to provide you with the knowledge and resources to safeguard your family’s health while avoiding the expenses, inconvenience, and stress associated with illnesses. Let’s discuss six effective strategies for keeping your home healthy.
Replace Filters Regularly
One of the simplest ways to maintain a healthy home environment is by regularly changing your HVAC system’s air filter. These filters capture particles and germs, preventing them from circulating throughout your home. For most households, it’s recommended to replace filters every three months, although high-quality filters may last up to six months. If you have young children, pets, allergy sufferers, smokers, or anyone with an autoimmune disorder in your home, consider replacing furnace filters more frequently.
Upgrade Your Air Filter
Different furnace filters offer varying levels of filtration, with some designed to capture airborne bacteria and viruses, including COVID-19. The Trane CleanEffects air cleaner is one example of these high-quality air cleaners. Filters are rated using the MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) system, which measures their effectiveness at capturing particles. Generally, a higher MERV rating equates to better performance and the ability to catch smaller particles.
Regular Duct Cleaning
At Affordable Comfort, we recommend air duct cleaning every three to five years. A thorough duct cleaning should include cleaning various parts of your HVAC system, such as supply vents, air handler return vents, registers, grilles, and internal chambers that facilitate airflow.
Apply Anti-Bacterial Spray to Ductwork
Incorporating an anti-bacterial spray during duct cleaning can help eliminate any lingering bacteria and germs. This treatment typically lasts about six months, providing a protective coating to prevent the spread of germs and viruses throughout your home.
Manage Humidity to Reduce Allergens and Illness
Maintaining consistent humidity levels and installing a dehumidifier or humidifier onto your HVAC systemin (if necessary) can help combat bacteria. Ideal home humidity ranges between 30% and 60%. Humidity levels outside of this range can lead to health issues and damage to your home. High humidity encourages mold growth, while low humidity creates a favorable environment for bacteria and viruses. Thus, it’s essential to strike a balance in your home’s humidity levels.
Install a UV light
A whole home UV light can effectively kill germs within your HVAC system, preventing them from entering your living space. Consider installing products like the Dust Free light stick, which removes 99% of bacteria and germs. This device neutralizes airborne particles such as allergens, bacteria, and viruses, potentially making the difference between a flu-ridden season and a healthy one.
By following these six tips, you can create a healthier living environment for you and your family. If you’re interested in scheduling a service appointment for your heating and cooling system, we have a team standing by and excited to help. We look forward to helping you improve your home’s air quality and overall well-being.
