Whole-Home Air Quality Solutions
Many modern homes in Sarasota have tight building envelopes for high energy efficiency. The problem is that there’s little to no natural ventilation in these houses. That lack of fresh air allows pollutants to concentrate to unsafe levels. One solution is an energy recovery ventilator (ERV). An ERV is a mechanical ventilation system that provides a steady influx of fresh air. It can also preheat and precool the fresh air so that you can continue using it throughout the winter and summer.
We also recommend active, around-the-clock protection with an in-duct air purifier. A well-sized whole-house air purifier can cycle all the air in your home five or more times per hour. Many of these systems have a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. HEPA filters can trap over 99% of dust, pet dander, pollen, and other particulate matter. Often, they have activated carbon as well for the removal of gases and airborne chemicals, including volatile organic compounds.
While a HEPA filter can trap some pathogens, we recommend pairing your air purifier with an ultraviolet (UV) lamp. In-duct UV lamps can neutralize over 99% of bacteria and viruses. They benefit from the slower-moving air in the ducts due to longer exposure times. Air purifiers, on the other hand, benefit from the faster-moving air internally.
High humidity is a significant challenge in Sarasota and Manatee counties. In the summer time, outdoor relative humidity can be 90% or higher. Indoors, RH can easily be above 60%, which invites mold, mildew, and dust mites. Achieving the optimal range of 40% to 50% without a whole-house dehumidifier is all but impossible. A dehumidifier will let you set a target RH. It will then remove as much moisture from the air as necessary to maintain it throughout your home.
If you have a central HVAC system, it’s also important to maintain your ducts. Over time, ducts can become leaky, thereby undermining your IAQ, comfort, and efficiency. We recommend scheduling a duct inspection every several years or so. If you have excessive dust accumulation, we can provide professional duct cleaning services. If you have duct leakage, we can seal and otherwise repair your ductwork.
