Guide: Air Purification

If you’re reading this in February, you might want to know that the root word for the month comes from a Latin word, Februum, that refers to a Roman ritual for purification. So we’re thinking February is a fine time to start considering purification — of the air, that is — in your home.

Chances are, you give little thought to how polluted your indoor air may be. But studies show that in today’s airtight homes, the indoor air is many times more polluted than that found outside. Among the chief pollutants are these:

• mold spores
• dust
• pollen
• pet dander
• dust mites
• volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

As you plan your spring cleaning tasks, you might also want to give some thought to air purification. Here are a few tips on dealing with common air pollutants.

Get a Handle on Air Purification

The best way to keep air pollutants out of your home is by making sure they doesn’t get inside in the first place. To keep out some of the above, do the following:

• Fix leaks asap so damp spots don’t form and encourage mold.
• Take shoes off at the door.
• Brush off clothes before entering the home, or change them soon after to keep pollen out.
• Ensure your home is airtight around doors and windows to keep out dust.
• Bathe pets frequently. Brush them outdoors.
• Avoid warm, damp conditions, which will promote dustmites in carpets, rugs and textiles.
• Air out VOC-laden products before they enter the home. Store chemicals in the garage. Buy natural products whenever possible.

Consider an Air Cleaner

Air cleaners are available in portable or whole-home models that work through your HVAC system. The latter do a better job of cleaning the air. Some of the types of air purification you can try:

• good quality air filters, rated MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) 8-10
• washable electrostatic permanent filters
• ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) lights in the HVAC (for mold, bacteria)
• activated charcoal filters (to remove smoke and other gases)

Want to learn more about air purification technology? Contact Roth Heating and Cooling. We serve Portland and the surrounding area.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Metro Portland, Oregon area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). 

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