Air Filters, Humidifiers & When to Change Them


Local HVAC Company Knoxville TN

We understand that air quality is a vital concern for homeowners, especially those who suffer from allergies or respiratory issues. At GENT Heating and Cooling, we are committed to being the best HVAC Company in Knoxville Solutions for helping you to maintain clean, healthy air in your home. This article will explore various tools and methods for improving your home's air quality, including air filters, humidifiers, and other useful tools.

Why is Air Quality Important?

The quality of the air we breathe has a consequential impact on our health and well-being. Poor indoor air quality can cause or worsen a range of health problems, including allergies, asthma, and respiratory infections. Exposure to pollutants in the air can also lead to long-term health effects such as heart disease, lung cancer, and stroke.

Air Filters

Air filters are an essential tool for improving indoor air quality. They work by trapping pollutants, allergens, and other harmful particles as they circulate through your home's HVAC system. Several types of air filters are available, including HEPA, electrostatic, and UV-C light filters.

HEPA filters are among the most effective types of air filters, capable of removing 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. Electrostatic filters use an electric charge to attract and trap particles, while UV-C light filters use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and viruses. Talk to an HVAC Company in Knoxville about the best option for your home.

Humidifiers

Humidifiers are another useful tool for improving indoor air quality. They work by adding moisture to the air, which can help relieve dry skin, alleviate respiratory symptoms, and reduce the spread of airborne viruses. Various humidifiers, such as cool and warm mist and ultrasonic humidifiers, are available. Cool mist humidifiers are generally the safest and easiest to maintain, while warm mist humidifiers are better suited for cold climates. Ask your local HVAC company in Knoxville which humidifier is suitable to use with your existing HVAC system.

Other Useful Tools

In addition to air filters and humidifiers, there are several other tools and methods for improving your home's air quality. These include:

  • Air Purifiers: Similar to air filters, air purifiers are designed to remove pollutants and allergens from the air. They work by using filters, electrostatic charges, or ozone to remove particles.
  • Ventilation: Conventional ventilation is vital for maintaining good indoor air quality. This can be achieved by opening windows and doors, using exhaust fans, or installing a mechanical ventilation system.
  • Houseplants: Certain types of houseplants can help improve indoor air quality by removing pollutants and toxins from the air. Some of the best plants for this purpose include spider plants, peace lilies, and snake plants.

Why Change Your Air Filter?

The primary purpose of an air filter is to capture dust, dirt, and other airborne particles, preventing them from circulating throughout your home. Over time, these particles can accumulate and clog the filter, reducing its effectiveness and causing your HVAC system to work harder than it needs to. This can lead to higher energy bills, decreased system efficiency, and potential mechanical problems down the line. Talk to an HVAC company in Knoxville for advice on changing your air filter.

In addition to improving system efficiency and reducing energy costs, regularly changing your air filter can positively impact your health. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air, and poor indoor air quality is associated with many health issues, which may include respiratory problems and allergies, and asthma. By changing your air filter regularly, you can help reduce the number of pollutants in your home, creating a healthier environment for you and your family.

How Often Should You Change Your Air Filter?

The answer depends on a number of factors, including the type of filter you have, the size of your home, and the number of occupants. As a general rule of thumb, almost every HVAC Company in Knoxville recommends changing your filter every three months. However, if you have pets, allergies, or live in an area with high levels of air pollution, you may need to change your filter more frequently.

Another factor to consider is your filter's MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating. Filters with a higher MERV rating are more efficient at capturing smaller particles but tend to clog more quickly. If you have a filter with a high MERV rating, you may need to change it more frequently to maintain optimal system performance.

Tips for Maintaining Good Indoor Air Quality

In addition to changing your air filter on a regular basis, there are several other steps you can take to maintain good indoor air quality:

  • Vacuum and dust your home regularly to reduce the amount of dust and allergens in the air.
  • Keep humidity degree in check by using a dehumidifier or air conditioner.
  • Use natural cleaning products and avoid products with strong fragrances or harsh chemicals.
  • Make sure there is proper ventilation by opening windows and using exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom.

Following these tips and changing your air filter regularly can help improve your indoor air quality and create a healthier home environment for you and your family.

Regularly changing your air filter is a simple and effective way to maintain good indoor air quality and keep your HVAC system running smoothly. By following the recommendations of an HVAC company in Knoxville, Tennessee, and paying attention to factors like filter type, MERV rating, and household factors, you can ensure that your home is a healthy and comfortable place to live. Maintaining clean, healthy air in your home is essential for your health and well-being. Tools such as air filters, humidifiers, and other valuable tools can improve indoor air quality and reduce the risk of respiratory problems and other health issues. At GENT Heating and Cooling, we are committed to being the HVAC company in Knoxville who you can trust with providing the best possible maintenance solutions for improving your home's air quality.

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Gent Heating and Cooling provide heating and air conditioning for residential and commercial clients in Knoxville, Knox County, and the surrounding East Tennessee area. Over 20 Years experience. Customer Service is Our Top Priority. We strive to be on time, provide accurate estimates, and have most replacement products on our service vehicles.

Call 865-213-9202 or email office@genthvac.com

www.gentheatandcool.com