Indoor Air Quality

Depending on the scientific study you read, indoor air quality is anywhere from 5 times to ONE HUNDRED TIMES as polluted as the outdoor air. But why? You can't know how to fight if you don't know your enemy. Here are some of the worst air quality offenders:

• Asbestos - We're probably all familiar with this one at this point, but if you aren't, asbestos was a popular flame retardant that has since been shown to have a host of negative health effects. It's banned, but can still be found in older construction.
• Infectious Agents - Everyone's exhausted from hearing about viruses and bacteria, but let's face it, they're all a threat to good health. Whether they were coughed out by a visitor or they blow in an open door, they have one goal - make you sick.
• Radon - This radioactive element is found in soil and can seep in through your home's foundation. Making sure your levels are in a safe range is vitally important.
• Secondhand Smoke - If you smoke, everyone in your house smokes. You may not be able to see it after a few seconds, but it's still lingering in the air, and can cause a number of respiratory issues.
• Carbon Monoxide - Often dubbed the "silent killer" because it is colorless, tasteless and odorless, CO can be produced from gas-fired stoves and furnaces and if not disposed of correctly it can be deadly. CO detectors are a must.
• Particulate Matter - This is a wide-ranging category that includes everything from dust, pet dander, dead skin cells, dirt, waste and a host of other unsavory characters that you do not want in your lungs.
• Volatile Organic Compounds - Also called VOCs, these are industrial chemicals used in the manufacture of paint, furniture and other furnishings. They seep out of their source over time and can stress your health.

The first step is to have your air comprehensively tested so you know your worst pollutants. Then you'll know which tools will combat them the best. Once you know what you're up against, there are several ways Harrington AC can help:

Air Purifiers

Whole home air purifiers actively scrub the air moving through your air conditioner to remove pollutants down to the micron scale.

UV Lights

Much as too much UV exposure from the sun can damage your skin, HVAC UV lights can damage or outright destroy infectious agents before they get into your home.

Humidifiers/Dehumidifiers

Maintaining a proper humidity level prevents your air from getting so dry it irritates your lungs or so wet it promotes mold, mildew and damage to walls and furniture. In our muggy climate, they're even more important.

Ductwork

Leaking ductwork is a sure avenue for pollutants trying to get into your home. Getting your ductwork sealed up or replaced if it's too far gone can keep unwanted elements outside where they belong.