Indoor air pollution has been a growing concern across the United States. Especially at risk are areas of the country like San Marcos, Buda, Kyle and the New Braunfels area of Central Texas. Areas that have experienced rapid population growth and with it the construction of a newer style of American home are more prone to indoor air quality problems.

These homes are built with materials more susceptible to off-gassing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) while at the same time are better sealed against air infiltration to save energy. The EPA now estimates that indoor air pollution may be from two to five times higher than outdoor pollution levels. Americans spend up to 90 percent of their time indoors exposed VOCs, trapped pollens, animal dander, molds, mildew, and the chemicals we use to clean our homes.

Homeowners should think of their air conditioning systems as much more than just a machine to keep a house cool, cold, or comfortable. Air conditioning systems can also “condition” indoor air in other ways.

Air filtration: Air conditioning systems circulate the air in a home past the systems air filter 4 to 6 times every hour. There is no better way to clean particulates from the air inside a home than a good air filtration system. Some air conditioning filters can not only capture larger particulates like animal dander, breathable dust and pollens, but particulates as small as viruses. A word of caution: Air Conditioning filters that capture small particulates must also have greater surface areas or the end result could spell disaster.

Dehumidification: Air conditioning systems (when properly sized, properly installed and properly maintained) can keep indoor humidity levels within a comfortable and more importantly health range. Fail to control indoor humidity levels and mold, mildew and other microbial contaminants can become a major source of allergies and other indoor air quality problems.

Air Cleaning: UV lights and even more aggressive means of allergy causing agents have been available and affordable for many years. These products may not be for everyone, but they can almost literally be live savers for those with moderate to severe allergic response conditions.

An AirOne Heating and Air Conditioning professional will be happy to discuss they best options for you and your air conditioning system.