Indoor air quality is about hypersensitivity
When you think of air filters for your heating and air conditioning system, you think of indoor air quality. When we purchase an air filter, most of us never consider in where we live and how outdoor air quality affects the indoor air we breathe.
Though the EPA's (Environmental Protection Agency) definition of "indoor air quality" varies from ASHRAE's (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers), both agree it's the health or hypersensitivity of the inhabitants to certain pollutants and contaminants that dictates the air quality and how it affects each person individually.
Basically, this means that each person reacts differently to certain airborne pollutants and contaminants. For example, in areas that are high in pollen counts, some people will have allergic reactions to pollen, while others are not affected by the higher levels. Though homes have become more energy-efficient, outdoor pollutants and contaminants can still enter our dwellings. The levels of pollutants and air contaminants in our outdoor air quality are environmentally controlled through natural or industrial sources.
What to look for in an air filter
So, where to begin in determining what type of air filter is right for you. The first step is to focus on the inhabitant with the most sensitivity to air contaminants. Begin with the person in the household who has the strongest reactions to air quality. The second determination on what type of air filter to buy is what you don't want in your indoor air (e.g. dust, dirt, pet dander, allergens, etc., ). Your area's outdoor air quality is the third factor in managing your total indoor air quality. Maybe your area has peak times where certain tree pollens are high, or you live in a place where there is a lot of industrial manufacturing. If you are sensitive to these conditions, there may be an air filter that can help. The last step is research. There are many different types of air filtration devices and materials on the market. Some are simply inserted or adapted directly to your HVAC system. Ask questions. There is a right air filter out there for you. Remember, no air filter can eliminate 100% of the pollutants we breathe, but there are ones who can help manage it.
You can begin your research at our website dedicated to HVAC air filters. It also provides links to individual types of HVAC systems' air filters.
