Which HVAC Systems Filter Wildfire Smoke?
High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA):
The US Department of Health supports HEPA filters because they produce 99.97 percent clean air, but they cannot remove odors, gases, or fumes. They also need to be replaced on a regular basis due to mold buildup.
Electrostatic Air Filters: Electrostatic air filters feature a polypropylene frame with an electrostatically-charged material placed inside. Airborne particles in your home stick to the filter’s surface, which reduces airflow but also captures dust and other contaminants before they reach your lungs. These filters are more effective at removing larger particles than charcoal or HEPA filters, so fewer pollutants reach your indoor air when you use them regularly. However, they are not suitable for extremely humid conditions because water droplets can form on their surfaces during high humidity levels, reducing airflow even further.
Pleated: Pleated HVAC filters offer decent filtration for airborne pollutants, but you need a highly pleated filter to keep wildfire smoke out of your home. However, your air conditioner may overheat as these filters restrict airflow to function.
Media: Low-maintenance HVAC media filters offer highly efficient filtration with great airflow. They require annual professional inspection and replacement though.
How to Filter Out Forest Fire Smoke?
Out of the numerous air filters available to consumers in the market today for their air conditioning units, it is critical to thoroughly research and investigate the technology and effectiveness of the filter before installing it in your home to filter the indoor air. The EnviroKlenz HVAC Air Filter is a high-performance, proprietary technology air filter that can combat a wide range of airborne pollutants such as chemical VOCs, noxious odors, and particulate matter found in forest fire smoke.
Here are 5 things to consider when buying a new HVAC system
1) Look at the SEER rating (and other ratings)
If you’ve had your air conditioner or furnace for 10-20 years, HVAC technology has most likely advanced significantly since the last time you went shopping for one.
To get a good deal, it is critical to choose the most recent energy-efficient technology available on the market.
Choosing a higher-rated HVAC system means you’ll save money every month while also protecting the environment.
SEER, HSPF, AFUE, and EER are various rating methods designed to inform you, the consumer, about the energy-efficiency of the HVAC system. In general, the higher the rating, the more energy efficient the air conditioner or furnace.
2) Pair your new system with a programmable thermostat
Thermostats have also advanced significantly in the last decade or so. There are now programmable thermostats on the market that allow you to program the times and temperatures at which your air conditioner or furnace will operate. This type of automated system has the potential to save you money on your monthly energy bills.
Many programmable thermostats can be accessed via your smartphone or smart home device. They’re a good addition to a new air conditioner or furnace. A programmable thermostat can help your HVAC units live longer, more productive lives by allowing you to use your systems more efficiently.
3) Get the appropriate size of HVAC system
Another critical factor to consider when purchasing a new HVAC system is that the unit’s size fits your home space or size. What is the best way to determine the size of furnace or air conditioner you require? Call Reimer’s HVAC experts for a free installation estimate, and we’ll advise you on what size HVAC unit to buy.
What is the significance of this? An oversized or undersized HVAC system, on the other hand, presents a number of issues that can end up costing you money.
Here’s how it works:
- Having too much heating and cooling capacity will reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system because it will use more energy to provide conditioned air for less space. It will also start and stop frequently, causing more wear and tear than usual.
- Having insufficient heating and cooling capacity means sacrificing your comfort because there will be insufficient cooling or heating based on the size of your home. Your system will also suffer more wear and tear as it attempts to keep up with demand.
4) Get honest advice on what HVAC unit is best
Many heating and cooling companies specialize in or partner with a single brand. Even if that brand’s systems aren’t a good fit for your home, they’ll be forced to steer you in that direction because that’s what they sell and install.
Reimer, on the other hand, carries and installs multiple makes and models of air conditioners and furnaces, allowing us to give you a more honest assessment of the type that’s best for your home.
5) Cost is important but not in the way you believe
Don’t make the mistake of selecting an air conditioner or furnace solely based on the price tag. That’s a bad way of thinking about things because the true cost of an HVAC system is often only determined when it fails.
Here’s an example: suppose you buy a less expensive air conditioner that saves you $3,000 over a better, more expensive model. You may believe you got a great deal! However, if the inferior air conditioner requires constant repairs, consumes more energy, and dies sooner than the superior unit, you may not come out ahead in the end.
Are you Worried About Your Home’s Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) During Fire Season?
You don’t have to worry about your home’s IAQ this season if you call Superior Mechanical Services today for high-quality air conditioning service. We’re here not only during wildfire seasons but also after they’ve passed, so you can rest assured that we’ll take care of any concerns or problems while providing peace of mind knowing our team is onsite if needed in future years. As the effects of wildfire season continue throughout Northern California many homeowners find themselves feeling less comfortable due to smoke and other toxic particles that can enter through even seemingly tight structures. Superior Mechanical Services, Inc. began in 1948 as a family-owned business with a vision to provide value-minded service with a down-to-earth approach to customers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. As the premier Commercial and Residential HVAC Service provider for Livermore, Dublin, and Pleasanton, Superior Mechanical can do it all, from heating and air conditioning services to boiler services, to plumbing services. Our technicians are certified professionals who will ensure every part of your project is done right using a careful checklist to guide and test each step. Contact us today for help ensuring your home’s IAQ stays healthy and clean every day of the year, regardless of the season!
