How HVAC Maintenance is related with Indoor Air Quality?
M ost people purchase heating and air conditioning systems to keep their properties cool during the summer and warm during the winter. This is why HVAC systems have become necessary for many owners over the years. However, the truth is that the system does more than that, as its primary role is to maintain good indoor air quality!
Your HVAC and Indoor Air Quality
There are three things HVAC systems must have to keep the indoor air clean—enough ventilation, continuous air filtration, temperature regulation.
Adequate ventilation ensures there’s a steady supply of fresh air in your indoor space, while air filtration helps filter out toxins or allergens present in the air. Likewise, temperature regulation is essential in maintaining a balance between humidity and dryness. When there’s little humidity indoors, the space will be more vulnerable to germs and illnesses. On the other hand, high levels of humidity can promote mould spores and mildew. The ideal indoor humidity must be kept between 30 and 50%, which is part of your HVAC system’s job.
How HVAC Maintenance Helps With Indoor Air Quality
When it comes to increasing your indoor air quality, keep in mind that your HVAC system relies on certain methods. For ducted HVAC units, there’s the indoor air duct system cleaning that must be done once a year. This type of cleaning helps remove any build-up of dust and other elements in the air ducts, grilles, or vents.
Another point is that the HVAC system needs to have regular air filter replacement. Ideally, the filters must be changed every 30 days. By doing so, you improve air quality and improve energy efficiency and reduce fire risk, among others.
Aside from these methods, your HVAC system will also benefit from some additional equipment, such as fans or open windows or doors. The air produced by any of these two sources may help prevent air stagnancy. Likewise, humidifiers and dehumidifiers will help with the humidity levels inside your home to keep it at a safe level.
For areas that are always damp, such as bathrooms, there needs to be exhaust ventilation to prevent the growth of mould and mildew.
Lastly, a critical aspect is the size of your HVAC unit, which must accommodate the needs of the specific space. However, the most common mistake homeowners make is to get a size that’s too big for the area. Although a bigger one would make more sense, the truth is that it’s a whole different matter when it comes to indoor air quality.
Yes, it could be colder or warmer, but the HVAC unit will have bigger chances to short cycle. What this means is that it will cool the air, but it won’t regulate the humidity. As a result, you will be in a risky spot where mould and mildew can grow rapidly. This is why you must ensure that your HVAC unit’s size is enough for the area by speaking with a professional to help you pick the right system for your property!
Conclusion
Your HVAC units are not primarily for cooling and heating. Instead, they are built to ensure good indoor air quality. After all, your home should be a safe space and the air you breathe inside plays a vital role in your comfort and security. By considering the information shared above, you now know the link between HVAC maintenance and indoor air quality.
If you need repairs, maintenance, or installation, Temp-a-sure is one of the best HVAC companies in Toronto, Ontario . Expect the best comfort and efficiency by scheduling an appointment with us today!