Johnny On the Spot Blog: Posts Tagged ‘Indoor Air Quality’

Why You Shouldn’t Miss Offers on Air Duct Cleaning & IAQ Services

Wednesday, October 10th, 2018

Indoor air quality (IAQ) should be a big deal for homes and businesses in the Las Vegas, Nevada, region. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found that indoor air is often significantly more polluted than outdoor air. Add that to dry, dusty conditions in our region and indoor air quality can be a year-round battle. Your team at Johnny On The Spot is happy to offer air duct cleaning and IAQ services and savings to protect occupants of area homes and businesses.

Managing IAQ Threats

Dust, pollen, viruses, fungi, and chemicals are among the myriad airborne pollutants found in many homes and businesses. Volatile organic compounds or VOCs, are gases that come from commonly used items like carpet, deodorant, furniture, and paint. Tobacco smoke and pet dander are also a problem for many households. Depending on the nature of the business, indoor air quality can be a real concern.

Pollutants often settle in ductwork and re-enter the indoor air in greater amounts when the HVAC unit cycles on. Excessive dust around vents or on furnishings is a sign on IAQ problems. You might also notice a prevalent musty odor. However, it is important to bear in mind that you cannot see many IAQ threats and some, like carbon monoxide, are odorless and colorless.

Professional Solutions

You also won’t be able to see animal droppings or other debris that build up in the ductwork. We have the equipment and expertise to inspect and sanitize ducts. We also install Trane systems with high-efficiency filters. Be sure to check your air filter regularly and change it when it is dirty.

Contaminants in the air can cause sneezing, headaches, and dizziness or trigger respiratory problems. However, there can be serious long-term consequences like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or even cancer. Businesses and households can reduce medical costs by being vigilant about IAQ.

Free Estimates on Air Duct Cleaning & IAQ Services

Johnny On The Spot offers effective duct cleaning and IAQ services in the Las Vegas, Nevada area. Don’t hesitate to find out how you can get a free estimate on air duct cleaning and IAQ services. You’ll have the opportunity to check your indoor air so you can take action. Call us today at(725) 977-9461 to ensure you don’t miss out on this limited time offer!

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The Importance of Properly Sized HVAC Coils

Monday, September 17th, 2018

If you want to maintain a comfortable environment in your Henderson, Nevada, home, you have to make sure that your HVAC system is always in tiptop condition. Every component must work properly. HVAC coils transfer heat and moisture from inside your home to the outdoors, and they can cause several problems if they’re not the right size. Find out why it’s essential to have correctly sized coils in your HVAC system.

How HVAC Coils Work

There are two sets of coils in your HVAC system: evaporator and condenser coils. The evaporator coil, located in the indoor air handler, absorbs heat and moisture from the indoor air. Also known as the indoor coil, this component then transfers the heat to the condenser coils via refrigerant coils. The condenser coils then release the heat and moisture into the outdoor air. When the indoor and outdoor coils are the right sizes, your AC system will perform the heat transfer efficiently.

Problems With Incorrect Sizing

If the evaporator and condenser coils aren’t the right sizes, the one that is smaller will not be able to keep up with the larger design. As a result, your AC will have to work harder to keep you comfortable. The additional strain not only makes the system more susceptible to mechanical problems, but it will also cause an increase in your energy bills.

When to Replace Your HVAC Coils

If you need to replace one set of coils, you have to ensure the replacement matches the other set. It’s a good idea to replace both coils at the same time. You’ll avoid damage to your system or a complete system failure because of mismatched coils. If you’re wondering if there’s a problem with your HVAC coils, the best way to know is to consult our service specialists.

You might not be able to tell if the problem with your system is as a result of issues with your coils. Contact the experts at Johnny On The Spot today. We will examine your system and provide an honest assessment. Give us a call at(725) 977-9461 for expert solutions.

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Three Simple Ways to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality

Sunday, June 10th, 2018

Living in the Las Vegas, Nevada, area often means exposure to a fair amount of air pollution. The city frequently makes the list as one of the worst in the nation when it comes to air quality. Outdoor air quality is a critical factor that impacts the air inside your home, as pollutants like pollen, smoke, and vehicle emissions can enter indoor spaces and degrade indoor air quality. Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a commonly used term to describe the condition of the air inside buildings, and maintaining good IAQ is crucial for comfort and health. While there’s nothing you can do about the outside air, there is plenty you can do to keep the air in your home clean. In fact, indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than the air outside, making it essential to understand what affects indoor air and how to improve it. Indoor air in U.S. homes can be 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air, especially in arid urban areas. Follow these tips to improve your indoor air quality, and reduce allergies, asthma symptoms, and other health problems.

Introduction to Indoor Air

Indoor air is the air that fills our homes, offices, and other indoor spaces, and its quality has a direct impact on our health and comfort. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, poor indoor air quality—also known as indoor air pollution or indoor pollution—can lead to a variety of health problems, from minor irritations to serious diseases. Since most people spend up to 90% of their time indoors, the quality of indoor air is often more important than outdoor air. In fact, indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than the air outside, making it essential to understand what affects indoor air and how to improve it. By learning about the sources and effects of indoor air pollution, you can take steps to create a healthier indoor environment for yourself and your family. Indoor air quality is part of indoor environmental quality (IEQ), which also includes factors like lighting, acoustics, and thermal comfort.

Sources of Indoor Air Pollutants

Many factors contribute to poor indoor air quality, and understanding these indoor air sources is the first step toward cleaner air. It is important to identify indoor air sources in your home, as this allows you to control pollution at its origin and reduce both immediate and long-term health risks. Indoor air pollutants can come from a variety of indoor sources, including building materials like paint, flooring, and insulation, as well as furnishings and everyday household products. Sources of indoor air pollution include combustion sources such as oil, gas, kerosene, coal, wood, and tobacco products. Common sources of indoor air pollution include secondhand tobacco smoke, air pollutants from indoor combustion, radon, molds, and other allergens. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are emitted by thousands of indoor products, including paints, varnishes, and cleaning products. Carbon monoxide and other common indoor air pollutants are often released during activities such as cooking, cleaning, or using air fresheners. Even outdoor air pollution can make its way inside, carrying pollutants indoors through open windows, doors, or ventilation systems. Tobacco smoke, an improperly adjusted gas stove—which can emit significantly more carbon monoxide than a properly adjusted one—and attached garages can also introduce harmful air pollutants into your living space. By identifying these indoor air sources and taking steps to control them, you can significantly improve your indoor air quality and create a safer, more comfortable home.

Health Effects of Air Pollution

Breathing in indoor air pollutants can have a wide range of health effects. The impact of exposure to indoor air pollutants depends on factors such as the type of pollutant, exposure level, duration, individual sensitivity, age, and preexisting medical conditions. When assessing long-term health risks, it is important to consider exposure to average pollutant concentrations and the average pollutant concentrations found in homes, as the health impacts of these levels are not always immediately clear and can vary between individuals.

Immediate effects from indoor air pollutants include irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Some of these immediate effects are similar to those from colds or other viral diseases, making it difficult to determine if symptoms are due to indoor air pollution. Poor indoor air quality can also lead to sick building syndrome, which includes symptoms like burning eyes, scratchy throat, blocked nose, and headaches.

Over time, exposure to indoor air pollution—such as volatile organic compounds, particulate matter, and carbon monoxide—can lead to more serious health problems. Long-term health effects from indoor air pollutants can include respiratory diseases, heart disease, and cancer, which can be severely debilitating or fatal. Some of these effects may only become apparent after long or repeated periods of exposure.

Children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions are especially vulnerable to the effects of indoor air pollutants. The World Health Organization estimates that poor indoor air quality results in the loss of millions of healthy life years each year. That’s why it’s so important to take steps to improve indoor air quality and reduce your exposure to harmful air pollutants in your home.

Building Materials and Air Quality

The materials used to build and furnish your home can have a big impact on indoor air quality. Many common building materials, such as plywood, particleboard, and certain types of insulation, can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the indoor air. These VOCs often come from adhesives, resins, and chemicals used during manufacturing, and they can linger in your indoor environment long after construction or remodeling is complete. Even everyday items like carpeting, upholstery, and paint can emit VOCs, contributing to poor indoor air quality and increasing the risk of indoor air pollution.

To improve indoor air quality, it’s important to choose building materials that are low in VOCs. Look for products labeled as low-VOC or made from natural materials like solid wood, bamboo, or cork. These options can help reduce the amount of harmful chemicals released into your indoor air. Additionally, regular ventilation and the use of air cleaners can help remove VOCs and other indoor air pollutants, keeping your home’s air quality at its best. By being mindful of the building materials you bring into your home, you can create a healthier indoor environment for you and your family.

Use a Dehumidifier

High humidity levels impact indoor air quality, as air that is too moist can be a breeding ground for fungi and other allergens, making humidity control essential for maintaining healthy air. Mold growth is associated with high moisture levels and can be triggered by conditions such as plumbing leaks or condensation due to improper ventilation. Even worse, high humidity levels can increase the concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are gas particles that products in your home release into the surrounding air. Proper maintenance of cooling systems is important for controlling humidity and preventing mold growth. A dehumidifier will help to keep humidity between the optimum 30 to 50 percent levels, ensuring that relative humidity levels remain within the recommended range for better indoor air quality.

Ditch the Chemicals

While keeping your home clean is essential for maintaining good air quality, you have to be careful what cleaning solutions you use. Many common cleaners contain hazardous chemicals that can cause side effects, as these chemical pollutants contribute to poor indoor air quality and pose health risks. Using these solutions could expose your household to harmful vapors for prolonged periods. Make the switch to natural cleaning products that do not have toxic ingredients.

Introduce Some Plants

Nature provides abundant, natural air cleaners in the form of plants. Common houseplants do a great job of absorbing air toxins and releasing pure oxygen. Plus, they’ll add a splash of color and bring life to your home. In addition to filtering out fungi and other allergens, houseplants can help reduce the impact of animal dander, a common indoor allergen originating from household pets that can become airborne and trigger allergies or asthma. Choose plants like the peace lily, English ivy, variegated snake plant, or chrysanthemum to get the best results.

Role of the Environmental Protection Agency

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) plays a vital role in helping Americans address indoor air quality problems. The EPA provides valuable guidance and resources to help homeowners, schools, and businesses identify and reduce exposure to common indoor air pollutants, such as radon, secondhand smoke, and volatile organic compounds. By setting standards and offering recommendations for improving indoor air quality, the EPA helps people take practical steps to reduce indoor air pollution and protect their health.

The EPA’s initiatives, like the Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Tools for Schools program, support schools in identifying and solving indoor air quality issues, while the National Radon Action Plan focuses on reducing radon exposure in homes and buildings. The agency also conducts research to better understand how indoor air pollutants affect human health and develops strategies to minimize these risks. Thanks to the EPA’s ongoing efforts, more people are aware of the importance of good indoor air quality and have access to the tools they need to create healthier indoor environments. By following EPA guidelines and staying informed about indoor air quality, you can help protect your family from the dangers of indoor air pollution.

Ventilation and Air Quality

Proper ventilation is key to maintaining good indoor air quality. Ventilation helps remove indoor air pollutants and brings in fresh outdoor air, diluting contaminants and improving the overall air quality in your home. Outdoor air enters and outdoor air flows into a building through infiltration, natural ventilation, and mechanical ventilation devices such as outdoor-vented fans and air handling systems. Air movement, driven by air temperature differences and wind, plays a crucial role in these processes. Mechanical systems can supply conditioned outdoor air—filtered, heated, cooled, or dehumidified—to maintain comfort and air quality.

There are two main types of ventilation: natural ventilation, which relies on opening windows and doors to let outdoor air flow in, and mechanical ventilation, which uses fans, ducts, and air handling systems to circulate air. Some systems, like bathroom exhaust fans and kitchen exhaust fans, intermittently remove air from specific rooms to reduce moisture and airborne contaminants; it is essential to vent these fans outdoors to prevent mold and mildew buildup. Other systems continuously remove indoor air and replace it with fresh air to maintain healthy conditions. Smart ventilation systems can bring fresh air in and stale air out without losing cool air, which is especially beneficial in hot climates like Las Vegas.

The effectiveness of ventilation depends on factors like the outdoor ventilation rate, air exchange rate, the use of air cleaners, and the quality of outdoor air coming indoors. Standards such as ASHRAE 62.1 help determine adequate outdoor ventilation rates for different settings. Too little outdoor air or low infiltration and ventilation rates can lead to increased indoor pollutant levels and low and pollutant levels, resulting in poor air quality and health risks. Carbon dioxide indoors is often used as an indicator of ventilation adequacy.

Central heating and air conditioners are also part of HVAC systems that impact indoor air quality. Poorly maintained units can harbor biological contaminants like mold and bacteria, which can be carried throughout the home. Regularly changing or cleaning air filters is essential for maintaining good indoor air quality, especially in Las Vegas, where high dust levels require changing HVAC filters every 1-3 months. High-efficiency air filters (MERV 13 or higher) are recommended for HVAC systems in Las Vegas to capture small particles including pollen, smoke, and bacteria.

Whole-home air purifiers can be installed in-line with HVAC systems to zap or eliminate mold, bacteria, and viruses using UV-C light or ionization. Using portable HEPA filters can also improve indoor air quality by removing airborne particles. Improving indoor air quality (IAQ) in Las Vegas requires managing dry, dusty conditions and extreme heat, and local providers offer specialized air quality services tailored to these desert-specific challenges.

Inadequate ventilation and poor maintenance can increase indoor pollutant levels, carrying indoor air pollutants throughout the home and resulting in poor ventilation. Common indoor air pollutants include volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide, and mold. Testing emissions from building materials used indoors has become increasingly common for floor coverings, paints, and other finishes. It is also important to test for radon and other pollutants periodically to ensure indoor air safety.

Indoor air quality (IAQ) is evaluated through collection of air samples, monitoring human exposure to pollutants, analysis of building surfaces, and computer modeling of air flow inside buildings. By prioritizing proper ventilation, using high-efficiency filters, and maintaining HVAC systems, you can significantly improve air quality indoors and protect your health.

Your Air Cleaning Experts

While you can use the above steps to help improve your indoor air quality, you get better results when you incorporate professional duct cleaning. The expert service specialists at Johnny On The Spot will remove any buildup of particles so that the air you breathe is fresh and clean. Call us at(725) 977-9461 to get started today.

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Did You Know You Can Use a Heat Pump During the Cooling Season?

Thursday, May 10th, 2018

A heat pump is an energy-efficient HVAC system and an alternative to a furnace. However, did you know that these units also cool your home? Along with heating your home or business, a heat pump can provide the cooling you need to get through a Las Vegas, Nevada, summer. Learn more about how a heat pump works and the options and features available in today’s designs.

How a Heat Pump Works

Heat energy is present in the air, the ground and water. A heat pump works by moving heat from one area to another. In the winter, it extracts heat from the energy source and releases warm air indoors. In the summer, it reverses this action to remove heat from your property and release it outside. Heat pumps accomplish this process via a reversing valve which allows you to switch the unit between heating and cooling modes.

Types of Heat Pumps

Heat pumps are either geothermal (ground-source or water-source) or air source. We carry air-source heat pumps that offer benefits like:

  • Two-stage Cooling
  • Efficient Performance
  • Energy Savings
  • Durability
  • Improved Indoor Air Quality
  • High Efficiency Ratings
  • Quiet Operation

Geothermal systems transfer heat energy between the ground or a nearby source of water and your property. They’re more costly to install but cheaper to operate, more durable, and suitable for extreme climates. An absorption system uses gas or another heat source to heat and cool your property. Air-source heat pumps are the most common option. They transfer air between the outdoors and your property. Heat pumps are a worthwhile option for indoor comfort since you get year-long comfort from just one unit.

Choosing Your Heat Pump

Your team at Johnny On The Spot is proud to partner with Trane in bringing you innovative HVAC systems. If you need an upgrade, contact us today at(725) 977-9461 to learn more about heat pumps. You can trust our expert team for accurate installation services. We’ll make sure you choose the system that is right for your home or business. Call now to get started.

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Never Cleaned Your Ducts? Learn Why Duct Cleaning Is Important

Sunday, April 22nd, 2018

Your HVAC system’s ductwork distributes heated and cooled air throughout your Las Vegas, NV, home or business. However, because ducts are hidden behind walls, under crawl spaces and in attics, they’re easy to forget. Ducts need maintenance as much your visible HVAC equipment. Here’s why it’s a good idea to invest in duct cleaning for your residential or commercial property.

It Improves Indoor Air Quality for Better Health

Over time, ducts can become infested with allergens and contaminants that cause short and long-term illnesses. Pet dander, dust mites, pollen, bacteria, viruses, spores, and pests can take up residence in the dark and humid environment of the ductwork. Whenever your HVAC system cycles on, these particles can blow into your Las Vegas home and pollute your indoor air. Duct cleaning removes these pollutants from your ducts so that the air you breathe is clean and not detrimental to your health.

Duct Cleaning Increases HVAC Efficiency

Dirt, dust, debris and other obstructions can also impede airflow through the ducts and overwork your system. Overworked HVAC components break down easily, and this wear and tear can also shorten your system’s lifespan because of the damage to the equipment over time. If the units have to work harder to maintain even basic performance levels, energy usage and utility bills will likely increase. Getting rid of ductwork gunk that obstructs airflow helps to keep indoor comfort high and energy bills low.

You Save Money by Preventing Duct Leaks

The buildup of particles can damage your ducts. Ductwork will develop cracks and leaks through which heated and cooled air escapes. The US Department of Energy estimates that the average home loses 20 to 30 percent of treated air through leaky and poorly-connected ducts. During duct cleaning, our technicians will identify any problems and provide honest recommendations. Sealing duct leaks will also prevent energy loss, increase HVAC efficiency and decrease utility bills.

Learn more about how duct cleaning and preventive maintenance protect your equipment, maximize indoor comfort, reduce energy consumption, and improve indoor air quality to support good health. Contact your service specialists at Johnny On The Spot by calling(725) 977-9461.

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How Spring AC Maintenance Helps You Beat the Summer Heat

Tuesday, April 10th, 2018

With an average annual high of 80 degrees and sweltering summer weather that routinely brings triple-digit temperatures, it’s not easy to keep your cool in the Las Vegas, NV, area. It also isn’t cheap. Effective air conditioning is virtually mandatory to live comfortably in the region, and that can often mean high energy costs. While devices like smart thermostats can offer some energy savings, one of the best energy efficiency boosters is also the simplest: routine maintenance. To learn more, let’s take a look at how spring AC maintenance can help you keep your cool – and your cash.

Prepare Your System for Battle

You wouldn’t embark on a cross-country trip without ensuring your car is tuned up and well-maintained, so why head into the scorching heat of summer without making sure your HVAC system is up to the task? Dirty air filters alone can sap up to 15 percent of your system’s energy. Leaky ducts, worn-out mechanical components, and other potential issues could be preventing your HVAC system from operating properly. Professional inspection and a routine maintenance program can identify and correct these problems during spring. We’ll ensure that you benefit from optimal energy efficiency and real savings on your utility bills when the time comes for you to crank up the air conditioning.

Routine Maintenance Can Boost Reliability

While installing a high-quality air conditioning system is certainly a worthwhile investment, having to replace an existing system that has failed is a surprise that no one wants. HVAC system failures are especially problematic in the summer when an unexpected breakdown can mean having to suffer through the heat until you arrange for a new installation. Regular AC maintenance is a great way to boost the service life and reliability of your system, so you save money on repairs and safeguard your home against a system failure at the worst possible time.

An effective and efficient HVAC system is a must-have when you live in the Las Vegas area. To find out what you can do to keep your system working at its best for years to come, check out Johnny On The Spot’s comprehensive maintenance services or call(725) 977-9461 to speak with a helpful representative today.

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All You Need to Know About Ductless AC Units

Friday, March 16th, 2018

If you’re in the process of remodeling or adding on to your Summerlin, NV, home, then you are likely thinking of ways to make your home more comfortable without breaking the bank. A ductless AC unit could go a long way toward giving you the energy-saving and comfort benefits you seek. Ductless AC units offer many benefits that their ducted partner cannot—like greater control and improved indoor air quality.

Get in the Zone for Comfort

Flexibility is a significant advantage of ductless AC units or ductless mini-split systems. These units consist of an indoor component that connects to an outdoor compressor via a narrow tube. This design, and the fact that they do not use ducts mean you can easily install them in any room. You can choose single-zone or multi-zone systems.

Each unit comes with a remote control, so persons can set the temperature they prefer in their area or zone. You put an end to thermostat wars with this customization, and you can also activate the system only when needed, so you save energy. Occupants can customize heating and cooling without changing the temperature throughout the house.

Great for Indoor Air Quality

The absence of ductwork means you eliminate the problem of debris collecting in ducts and then circulating through rooms in your home or building. Ductless mini-splits have multi-stage filtration that removes dust, pollen and other contaminants.

Their design also makes cleaning and maintenance easy. Don’t let the IAQ advantage go to waste by neglecting to schedule seasonal tuneup for your ductless AC.

Energy and Cost Efficient

You save energy with a ductless AC. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a ductless mini-split uses 60% less energy than standard electric home heating systems. This is because they transfer rather than, generate heat. Similarly, in cooling mode, you can reduce cooling costs by 30% compared to conventional ACs. Their compressors and fans adjust speeds, so you save energy.

If you’re thinking about upgrading or adding to your home, then maybe you should give ductless AC units some serious consideration. If you would like to learn more about these systems, call Johnny On The Spot today at(725) 977-9461.

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How To Change Your Air Filter

Friday, December 15th, 2017

Having a dirty air filter can cause lower the quality and performance causing it to overheat and worsen the air inside your households. If you start to notice your air filters getting dusty, it’s time to have it changed immediately. Air filters need to be taken care of on a regular basis for system maintenance, good air quality and prolonged lifespan. When tended to on a monthly basis, there’s a lower risk of your air filter experiencing damages that can lead to expensive repairs. To skip the headaches and having to spend more, air filters are quick to clean and change so you can easily do it on your own in the comfort of your home. Here are a few easy methods to follow when changing your air filter.

What Is the Proper Way to Replace an Air Filter?

  • Turn off your HVAC unit to avoid accidents or damage before you remove the filter.
  • Remove and clean the filter slot — wipe dust around the edges; vacuum or hose off reusable filters then let them fully dry.
  • Insert the new filter the right way — use the arrow on the frame to align airflow direction and secure it properly.
  • Replace monthly or as needed — especially during high‑dust seasons or heavy use to maintain air quality and system efficiency.
  • Schedule regular preventive inspections with a professional to catch wear‑and‑tear early. (optional expert assistance can help)

What’s An Air Filter

An air filter is installed in your HVAC system. The main purpose of an air filter is to capture large amounts of dust, pollen, mold, insects and bacteria circulating around your household. If you have family members suffering from dust allergies, asthma, colds or any kind of sickness, it’s necessary to have a fresh air filter since it provides cleaner air. It also helps avoid illnesses caused by dusts and air-borne diseases. Air filters usually come in different functions, prices and MERV ratings, all fit for your household needs.

Steps on How to Change the Air Filter

1. Clean It

When you spot gunk and piles of dust surround the filter, it’s time you change it. To replace your filter, you’ll have to turn off your unit for safety precautions then you can proceed to remove the air filter. Once the air filter is removed use a cloth to wipe the area surrounding the surfaces and be cautious of the dust that will fall out. You can also clean the frame with a cloth or a vacuum. Further clean it by watering it down with a hose. Prevent bacteria build up by scrubbing it with a water solution or vinegar, and once the cleaning process is done just dry it out.

2. Install It

When putting in the new filter, just follow the directions of how to place it which you can see on the frame.There are arrows that indicate which side should go first when installing the air filter so you can slide it in with ease. Lastly, put back the filter cap and you’re done changing your air filter.

Changing your air filter won’t take too much time and does not cost much.To avoid damages on your air filter, it’s advised to change your air filter on a monthly basis. If you need further assistance in changing your air filters, contact us to help you out with the job. For other expert HVAC advice or issues that require a properly trained and licensed HVAC professional, call Johnny On The Spot at (725) 977-9461.

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What Kind Of Air Filter Is The Best?

Friday, September 1st, 2017

Ever walked into the store to purchase an air filter only to find shelves upon shelves of them and not know which one to choose? It’s a common dilemma most homeowners face. In cases like these, it’s easy to go for the cheapest but you might not be getting the best one for you. It’s a simple task that, when done with lack of information and thought, could easily have serious effects on indoor air.

What Kind of Air Filter Is Best for Indoor Air Quality?

  • MERV 8 to MERV 13 filters: Ideal for most homes, capturing dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and other common airborne particles.
  • Balanced filtration and airflow: These filters improve indoor air quality without restricting your HVAC system’s performance.
  • Higher MERV ratings: Provide greater particle removal but may reduce airflow if your system is not designed for them.
  • HEPA filters: Trap very fine particles like smoke and microscopic allergens but typically require specialized equipment or standalone air purifiers.

What Is a MERV Rating and Why Does It Matter for Your Air Filter?

The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value ranks air filters according to how well they do their job at preventing air particles from entering your home and spreading around. It’s a scale of 1 to 20 with 1 as the lowest and 20 as the highest. While it sounds like getting the filter with the highest rating would be the smartest thing to do, not all HVAC systems were designed to carry powerful filters. Check if your HVAC fan can handle at least a MERV 16 filter. You can easily find this information in the manual but if you no longer have it, or the manual doesn’t state it, you can do a simple experiment.

Begin with lower rated air filters and move up a rank with every filter. Observe your HVAC and how it handles the new filter and check for signs of strain. You can also ask your trusted HVAC maintenance company for recommendations.

Other Air Filter Rating Scales You Should Know

Since the MERV isn’t mandatory, you might notice other brands using a different ranking system for their own filters. If you decide to opt for a filter from one of these, get to know their rating scale by doing a little research. Simply ask the manufacturers or go online. The information should be readily available. Do this before you decide to make your purchase.

Types of Mechanical Air Filters for Home HVAC Systems

Fiberglass: It’s the thinnest and simplest in design among the four and do the poorest job when it comes to improving air quality because it wasn’t made to do that. It’s purpose is only to protect your equipment and cost roughly around a dollar each.

MERV Rating: 1-4

Pleated: The higher the number of pleats per foot, the better the airflow which means it passes through the filter more frequently, giving you cleaner air each time. It shields your home from up to 45% of air pollutants at around $10 a piece. For homeowners looking to boost air quality affordably, pleated filters can be a smart and affordable choice.

MERV Rating: 10-13

High-efficiency: These filters offer the best value for residential owners. They can pick up extremely small particles and some come coated with bacteria-killing chemicals so your air isn’t only clean but safer and healthier. Other filters are created similar to your car’s air filter. Because of their highly efficient nature, hence the name, expect your operating costs to drop. They can filter up to 85% of pollutants from your indoor air and work well when combined with enhanced whole-home ventilation tips to ensure consistent air circulation.

MERV Rating: 14-16

True HEPA (or High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters: It’s the most effective in improving air quality but they’re normally not used for homes. Because of the gaps for airflow are so small, in order to filter 98% of air pollutants, they need stronger air pressure which most home HVAC systems don’t have.

MERV Rating: 17-20

Still trying to determine what air filter will work for your unit? Call Johnny’s today at (725) 977-9461 and we will help you determine what is right for your home!

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What does the MERV rating on an air filter mean?
Answer: The MERV rating, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, measures how effectively an air filter captures airborne particles. The scale ranges from 1 to 20. Higher numbers indicate better filtration of smaller particles, but not every HVAC system is designed to handle the highest ratings without affecting airflow.

Question: What MERV rating is best for most homes?
Answer: For most residential HVAC systems, a MERV rating between 8 and 11 offers a strong balance between air filtration and system performance. These filters capture common pollutants like dust, pollen, and pet dander while still allowing proper airflow through the system.

Question: Are HEPA filters a good choice for residential HVAC systems?
Answer: True HEPA filters capture extremely small particles and provide advanced filtration. However, most standard home HVAC systems are not designed to handle the airflow resistance of HEPA filters. They are typically used in standalone air purifiers or specialized systems.

Question: What type of air filter is recommended for better indoor air quality?
Answer: Pleated air filters are commonly recommended for improving indoor air quality. They offer better particle capture than basic fiberglass filters and are available in various MERV ratings. Choosing the right pleated filter depends on your home’s air quality needs and HVAC system compatibility.

Question: How do I choose the right air filter for my HVAC system?
Answer: Start by checking your HVAC manufacturer’s recommendations for compatible MERV ratings. Then consider your indoor air concerns, such as allergies or pets. A mid range pleated filter is often ideal for general use, while higher rated options may benefit households with respiratory sensitivities.

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Why Should I Upgrade My Thermostat?

Friday, June 30th, 2017

A programmable thermostat is a valuable investment although you may not realize it. With a programmable thermostat, you’ll be able to control your home’s temperature at any hour on a certain day of your choice. Apart from that, it also has a great impact on your home energy efficiency. In order for you attain energy efficiency, you should update or upgrade to a programmable thermostat. Here are some reasons why:

How Programmable Thermostats Work

A programmable thermostat will obviously allow you to program a more definite heating and cooling schedule. Once you set the program, the programmable thermostat will do the rest of the operation that it is programmed to do. It will eventually turn your system on or off at the time it is scheduled to do so. Some of them even come with remote settings where you are able to access the unit’s settings using your mobile device or desktop.

How Do These Thermostats Help Save Money?

The amount you save on your energy bill each month will depend on what thermostat model you are using. The basic models can help you save about 15 percent of your energy bill while the most advanced ones can help save you up to 20 percent or more. This, of course, is true if your HVAC system is also under in a good condition.

Features Made for Your Convenience

The different designs of modern thermostats come in plenty of excellent features. There are models with filter replacement reminders, intelligent system management, and energy-use tracking capabilities. They also manage your system’s airflow, ventilation, and indoor air quality and so much more. Many models are Wi-Fi capable so you can access your thermostat’s setting on the go. Now that’s awesome, right?

Improve Your Home’s Comfort

Helping you save money is not the only thing that your new thermostat can do. Modern thermostats have the ability optimize your home comfort as well. If you program your thermostat to a certain temperature prior to your family’s arrival, the temperature you desire will already be circulating your home. You will always return to a comfortable atmosphere in your home.

True enough, modern thermostats, specifically the programmable thermostats, may be expensive. However, your benefits from it far outweigh the cost. Investing in it won’t cause you any regrets because the return on your savings is long term and bigger than how much you spent for it.

Do you have questions regarding programmable thermostats? Would you like to know more about their function and efficiency? Or perhaps you need more advice on how to use your thermostats to their full potential? Don’t hesitate to talk to one of our professional technicians. Call Johnny On The Spot now at (725) 977-9461 or visit our website for more useful information.

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