Category: Indoor Air Quality

Allergy Season is Coming!

Posted on | by 360 AIR TECH

With autumn on the way, allergy season is starting to gear up once more as weeds and other plants start to release their pollen. A big fall allergen in the mid-Atlantic region is ragweed - it is hardy and can grow almost anywhere and the pollen it produces can travel through the air on a breeze for many miles. Most seasonal allergies are categorized under “hay fever” or “allergic rhinitis”. There are also regular year-round irritants, such as mold and dust mites. Your HVAC system’s job is to circulate air throughout your home, and if it isn’t properly maintained it could be contributing to poor air quality. People who suffer from allergies or other respiratory issues can live more comfortably with a clean and efficient HVAC system. Here are some things to consider when improving air quality in preparation for autumn allergies:

  • Indoor Air Quality: what is the air in your home like when it is not allergy season? The EPA reports that indoor air can be between 2 and 5 times more polluted than outdoor air. This is due to the recycled air used indoors. Whatever pollutants are released within your home - paint fumes, a virus from a sneeze, insect droppings, cigarette or wood smoke, pet dander, hair spray, etc. - are then recycled because the air stays within the home. Outdoor air pollutants can become more diluted because the volume of outdoor air is greater, and because of the cleansing effects of the water cycle. To improve your indoor air quality, you can eliminate some of the pollutants by regularly cleaning indoors, opening windows when the weather allows, and by installing an air-purifying system. These can be stand-alone systems or they can be incorporated within your existing HVAC.
  • Humidifier: mildew and mold can be seasonal or situational allergens. They are able to grow at an optimal temperature and humidity. These often occur in the spring and fall. Having a humidifier can ensure that things don’t become too damp. Humidifiers can also improve the health of your skin and hair.
  • Filters: Aside from having an air purifier, another great way to battle seasonal allergies is to regularly change the filter on your HVAC system. A filter’s job is to remove floating particles from the air that circulates through your home. Things like dust mites, pollen, mold spores, pet dander, or other irritants become trapped in the filter and are no longer floating through the air that you breathe. However, if the filter isn’t changed out regularly, it becomes clogged and can no longer efficiently clean the air flowing through it. A clogged filter puts strain on your HVAC system by making it work harder to push air through the clog. This can cause damage or shorten the lifespan of your HVAC. A clogged filter also means that your air is not being properly filtered - irritants and allergens are slipping through and your loved ones are breathing them in. Generally, you should change your filter every 3 months but the packaging on the filter will tell you the recommended timeline. You can sign up for an automatic delivery subscription for many types of filters, and this means you don’t have to keep track. When the filter arrives on your doorstep, you know it’s time to change. There are many types of filters, and most are rated on the MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) Scale. Knowing what type of allergen or irritant you want to remove will help you select what MERV rating you are looking for. For example, a MERV 6 filter removes dust, lint, and pollen. A MERV 13 removes dust, lint, pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, smoke, smog, cough and sneeze germs, airborne viruses, and bacteria. Although a higher-rated filter might cost more, the protection it brings might be worth the price tag.

To schedule some TLC with a trained professional, or to discuss what type of air purifier or filter would work best in your home, contact 360 AirTech today.

Allergy Season is Upon Us

Posted on | by 360 AIR TECH

Whether you personally deal with allergies or not, odds are that a loved one in your family probably does. Itchy, watery eyes, congestion, sneezing, difficulty breathing - allergies are no fun. Spring and fall can be especially difficult for those of us that deal with seasonal allergies, and making a few adjustments to your HVAC system can turn your home or office into a place of relief, all year round. It might surprise you to know that EPA studies report that indoor air can actually be 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air, so make sure that your HVAC system is circulating clean air is critical for everyone. Here are some tips to help keep your space as free from allergens and irritants as possible.

Air Filters

No matter what time of year, you should change the air filters in your HVAC system. They help cleanse the air and make the system run efficiently. A filter that is overdue to be changed clogs up the air flow, making the system work harder, and it can’t trap floating particles as well as a new filter. Depending on the quality of the filter you use, it should be changed about every 3 months. Filters are very easy to change, and you can even sign up for a subscription. No need to keep track of when to change the filter, just change it when a new filter is shipped to your door.

Other factors to consider include the indoor and outdoor environments. You may need to change the filter more often or purchase a higher-quality filter. Indoor air can be more polluted because it lacks the natural filtration system and space that outdoor air has. Plants, clouds, and the water cycle all help to filter pollutants out naturally. Air inside has much less space to move through, and no natural systems to clean it. We also use a lot of chemicals in our homes, whether we realize it or not. Cleaning supplies, wood-burning fireplaces, and hair products may all be releasing chemicals or irritants into your home. Once in the air, they circulate throughout the space and become something you breathe in. Think about these questions:

  • Does someone in the home smoke?
  • Are there animals in the home?
  • Do we live in an area with a heavy pollen season?
  • Do we live in a heavily populated area or near heavy traffic?

If you answered yes to any of those questions, you may want to consider upgrading to a HEPA filter. HEPA means “high-efficiency particulate air” filter. According to the EPA “, this type of air filter can theoretically remove at least 99.97% of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and any airborne particles with a size of 0.3 microns (µm).” The size specified is the most penetrative, worst kind of particle. Other size particles are trapped even more efficiently. If you are interested in HEPA filters, contact 360 AirTech to discuss what option would fit your home best.

Mold

This tricky irritant can sometimes be hard to see because it loves to grow in places that we can’t see. Parts of the HVAC can be prone to growing mold because they hold moisture and humidity. Hiring a trained HVAC technician to complete regular maintenance will reduce the chances of mold growing in your system because they are trained to detect and correct mold problems within the system. Left untreated, mold spores can circulate throughout your home which can cause symptoms similar to hay fever.

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is very difficult for humans to detect. It is odorless, tasteless, and invisible. Small amounts of gas can cause weakness, dizziness, headaches, and nausea. It can also cause people to develop symptoms similar to allergies. So while you may be thinking that you are just suffering from seasonal allergies, it could actually be a much bigger problem. It is important to know if there is a carbon monoxide leak in your home - large amounts of it can be deadly. Installing a carbon monoxide detector can save lives.

Maintenance

Most HVAC specialists recommend having regular maintenance completed twice a year: once before turning on your air conditioning, and once before switching over to heat. Not only do these visits extend the life and efficiency of your HVAC system, but they can also reduce the number of allergens, irritants, and pollutants in your home. Technicians are trained to look out for signs of mold, filter issues, and anything else that might reduce the cleanliness of the air in a space.

Give 360 AirTech a call today to discuss your next maintenance visit, and how you can improve the health of your home or office.

Benefits of Zone HVAC System

Posted on | by 360 AIR TECH

Most homeowners don't realize the benefits of a zone HVAC system. Have you ever considered switching from a whole-house HVAC system to something with zones? There's no better time than now to make the change. There are many reasons why a zone HVAC system is better than a traditional whole-house HVAC. It can save you money on your heating and cooling bill, and it makes spaces more comfortable to live in. It can improve the air quality in your home, and you can individualize spaces based on use and personal preference. If you need your HVAC System upgraded or have questions about a zone HVAC system you can call us now!

If you have a zoned HVAC system now and are looking for maintenance or repairs service, we can help. Book an appointment now!

How does a zone HVAC system work?

If you already have ductwork installed in your home, you could have a new HVAC zoned system installed. Instead, if your existing system is still in good shape, you could opt to have remote-controlled dampers installed into the ductwork system you already have. One type of zoned system works by having dampers open or close, to redirect air to specific areas of the house. Another system operates with individual units in each space. If you don’t already have ducts in your home, there are systems that are ductless. This would save money and time on a duct install.

Regardless of whether your system uses ducts or not, the zoned HVAC systems all operate similarly. You divide your home into zones and then adjust the temperature for each on your thermostat, based on your preferences and needs. Many systems have individual thermostats for each zone. Everyone has colder areas that they want to warm up, and if you live with an elderly person, you might want to make their bedroom warmer at night. A zoned HVAC system gives you the ability to tailor each space to your needs.

Benefits of a HVAC Zoned system

Individualized comfort

If you have children that get cold easily but you sleep better in a cold room, you can turn up the heat in their zone while not having to sacrifice your own comfort. If you work from home, and your office space is always a bit drafty, you can send more heat to that area without heating up the rest of the house.

Save money

Most of us have spaces in our homes that we don’t use all year. If you have a guest room or sunroom that is only used occasionally or seasonally, you shouldn’t spend energy heating or cooling those spaces unless they are in use. The dampers can re-direct air away from those spaces, and you only heat or cool those spaces when needed.

Easy to use

Most zoned systems work with a set of smart thermostats that can be operated remotely, from a smartphone. These are user-friendly and give you control, even when you are not at home. If you are out for the day and forgot to turn the heat down, you can do it from your phone. If the temperature drops faster than expected, you can also adjust the thermostat in the desired zones while you’re away, and walk into a toasty space.

Extended lifespan

You can reduce the workload on your zoned HVAC system by having different zones for heating and cooling. Instead of trying to maintain a constant temperature throughout the whole house, you can lower the temperature in the winter, in unused spaces. This means less work for your system, which leads to a longer life.

A zoned HVAC system is ideal for almost any home or workspace because it allows you control and individualized comfort for each zone. Whether you are looking for a new system, or you want to turn your existing HVAC into a zoned system, there are many options to consider. Give us a call today at 360 Air Tech and we will help you determine which brand and model would be the best fit for your home or workplace. If you already have an HVAC zoned system and need maintenance or repair, book an appointment for HVAC services now!

Indoor Air Quality is Key

Posted on | by 360 AIR TECH

Indoor air quality is crucial because we spend a lot of time in our homes. In that indoor environment, the air we breathe in that space plays a big role in our health. Having a well-organized, clean, and safe home, or workspace reduces stress. The air that you are breathing in has just as much impact on your health and well-being. Regardless, it is often overlooked because it is not something you see. Indoor air can often contain more pollutants than outdoor air because the indoor is trapped in a smaller space.

How To Improve the Indoor Air Quality in Your Home or Office

There are many ways to improve the indoor air quality in your home or workplace. Following are some of the different types of filters available, and a little bit about how they work.

HVAC Air Filters

The easiest thing to do to improve the quality of the air you breathe is to change the filter in your HVAC system regularly. HVAC filters are designed to trap dust, mold, mildew, pet dander, and other irritants as the air in space is cycled through the HVAC system. However, when that filter is clogged, it can no longer do its job. In this situation, the HVAC system works harder to push air through the clogged filter. Depending on the quality of the filter, a good timeline for changing your HVAC filter, typically, varies from 3 to 6 months. If you live in a home with pets, smokers, an area with heavy pollen, or someone with extreme allergies, change your filters more often. Filters are extremely easy to change. You can even sign up for a service to have them automatically delivered to your home. No need to keep track of the calendar - when the new filter arrives, it’s time to change out the existing one.

Air Purifiers

Air purifiers are designed to filter and clean the air in a single room by filtering out allergens and pollutants by up to 50%. So, while a traditional HVAC filter works for the whole home, it does not pick up a lot of the irritants floating around in the air. Air purifiers are able to filter out smaller particles and improve air quality. If you have a family member with breathing issues or allergies, consider placing an air purifier in their bedroom, or in areas of the home where they spend a lot of time. There are 6 different types of air purifiers, and each operates in different ways. Each type has its own strengths, and each is designed for specific airspace with a certain efficiency. At 360 Air Tech, we help you determine which type is the best fit for your home or office.

Air Scrubbers

Traditional HVAC filters need to be replaced to be functional and only remove particles that are large enough to get stuck in the filter. Air purifiers only really work in a specific space. If you are looking for something more heavy-duty than a simple filter, consider installing an air scrubber. Air scrubbers work with your existing HVAC system and are designed to clean all of the air circulating through the HVAC system. Through the use of UV light and photocatalyst targets, air scrubbers create an Advanced Oxidation Process. This oxidation process significantly reduces surface microbial populations.

Air Scrubbers also reduce odor by removing the bacteria that cause smells within the space - whether from cooking, the dog, or your teenager. Workplaces also benefit from odor reduction. Many spaces have their own unique smell, based on what is being produced, harsh cleaning supplies, or even from the copier. An air scrubber will reduce or remove these odors.

Is Air Quality in My Home and Workplace Really That Important?

What are we breathing in on a daily basis? Is indoor air quality really that important? How does it affect our health and quality of life? When you consider how much time we spend in our homes and workplaces, it makes sense that indoor air quality should be something that every homeowner should be conscious to manage. Making a small change to your home or workplace can lead to big benefits later down the road. Whether you opt to change your HVAC filter more regularly, or you want to purchase an air purifier or Air Scrubber, we can help! At 360 Air Tech, we help you make the best choice for your home or workplace. We help you decide the best solution, based on your needs and budget. Give us a call today to discuss options, or schedule an appointment online!

Air Scrubber by Aerus

Posted on | by 360 AIR TECH

We all want to keep our loved ones safe and in good health. Eating well and exercising is important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Our environment also plays a big role in our health - both mental and physical. Having a well-organized, clean, and safe home or workspace reduces stress and improves our quality of life. The air that you are breathing in has just as much impact on your health but is often overlooked because it is not something you see. Investing in an Aerus Air Scrubber is an effective and beneficial way to take care of the air quality for your family, yourself, and your employees.

How the Aerus Air Scrubber Works?

Aerus Air Scrubber

The Aerus Air Scrubber is a great addition to any home or workspace. Traditional HVAC systems clean the air in a space by running it through a filter. However, filters need to be replaced to be functional and they only remove air particles that are large enough to get trapped in the filter. The Air Scrubber is much more effective in cleaning the air, by using ActivePure® Technology. Through the use of UV light and photocatalyst targets, the Air Scrubber is able to create an Advanced Oxidation Process that significantly reduces the microbial population on surfaces.

How Long Do Air Scrubbers Last?

Aerus air scrubbers can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, depending on the model and how often it is used. Aerus air scrubbers are built to last, and with proper care, they can provide years of clean air. When it comes time to replace your Aerus air scrubber, be sure to contact Aerus to find out the latest models and options. With Aerus, you know you're getting a quality product that will help keep your home healthy and fresh.

Is It True That The Aerus Air Scrubber Eradicates Mold?

The Aerus air scrubber is effective at removing mold and other allergens from the air. In fact, the Aerus air scrubber is one of the only air scrubbers on the market that has been certified by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. With an Aerus air scrubber, you can breathe easy knowing that your home is free of harmful allergens.

Breathing is such a key part of life, but we often take it for granted. What are we breathing in on a daily basis? How does it affect our health and quality of life? Making a small change to your home or workplace can lead to big benefits later down the road. Installing an Air Scrubber by Aerus will improve the air quality of your home or your workplace by removing odors, allergens, and bacteria.

Benefits of Air Scrubber Technology

Air scrubbers offer a variety of benefits by reducing the number of pollutants and irritants, reducing odors, and lessening bacteria. They are a more effective choice than a common HVAC filter, and definitely worth consideration.

  • Reduces Odor: Many of us may not realize how stale the air in our homes can become, especially during the summer and winter when windows stay closed. Have you ever come home from a trip and noticed a stuffy smell when you came in the door? ActivePure® Technology is able to remove the bacteria that causes odors. Workplaces can also benefit from odor reduction. So, odor reduction is a benefit of using an air scrubber in both the home and office.
  • Helps Minimize Allergies/Asthma: If you or a loved one suffer from allergies or asthma, you know firsthand how frustrating irritants can be. Runny noses, watery eyes, constant sneezing, or wheezing breath are no fun to live with. Keep your family and your employees healthy with the Air Scrubber, all year round. Unlike a traditional HVAC filter, the Air Scrubber can remove significantly more particles from the air. This means you are breathing in fewer irritants. Breathing clean air means a much more healthy and happy home and workplace.
  • Lowers Microbial Populations: No matter how much you vacuum, dust, mop, or steam clean, there will always be bacteria. It is a part of everyday life because much of it travels through the air. That giant sneeze your child just let out? The microscopic particles are floating through the air, right onto the counter where you prepare dinner. Every time your cat scratches itself, dander and skin particles take flight. Whether we think about the bacteria in the air around us, or we ignore it, it is still there. Indoor air is circulated throughout a space, so you are constantly breathing in the same bacteria. However, the Aerus Air Scrubber could be the answer. ActivePure® Technology uses UV light to kill the bacteria as it passes through, so you can breathe easier.

Can Aerus Air Scrubbers Be Installed Directly Into Existing Ductwork?

Yes, Aerus air scrubbers can be installed directly into existing ductwork. This means that there is no need to tear apart your home or install new ductwork - Aerus air scrubbers can be easily added to your existing system. Plus, Aerus air scrubbers are designed to fit seamlessly into your home's décor.

Interested in learning more about whether an Aerus Air Scrubber might be a good solution for you? Contact 360 Air Tech today, or schedule an appointment online. Let us do the work so you can breathe easily!