Get healthy clean air in Three simple steps

MERV teaches people about poor air quality and guides them how to breathe better and feel healthier. He’ll show you what matters, what to change, and how simple it can be to enjoy truly clean indoor air.

Have questions or want to get started? Just call, text or email MERV—he’s always happy to help. 

Below are some points of information you should be aware of, if not already. 

Eliminate Pollutants at the Source: This is generally the most effective strategy. 

• Go Smoke-Free: The most crucial step is to eliminate smoking and vaping inside your home and car, as tobacco smoke releases numerous harmful chemicals.

• Manage Chemicals and VOCs: Use low-VOC (volatile organic compound) or zero-VOC paints, cleaning supplies, and personal care products. Properly store any necessary chemical products in a well-ventilated area like a garage, ensuring containers are tightly sealed and out of reach of children.

• Avoid Scented Products and Burning: Limit or avoid the use of scented candles, air fresheners, and incense, which release small particles and VOCs. Use natural alternatives like essential oil diffusers or a simmering pot of water with lemon slices and rosemary if you desire a pleasant scent.

• Control Cooking Pollutants: Use kitchen exhaust fans that vent to the outdoors while cooking, especially when using a gas stove or frying, to remove pollutants like nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter.

• Maintain Appliances: Ensure all fuel-burning appliances (furnaces, gas stoves, fireplaces, chimneys) are properly installed, maintained, and inspected annually by a professional to prevent leaks of carbon monoxide and other gases. Install working carbon monoxide and smoke detectors on every level of your home.

• Prevent Pests: Seal cracks and holes to prevent pests, as their droppings can be a source of allergens.

Spotting High Humidity (Physical Signs).

You can often identify a humidity problem before using any tools by looking for the following indicators: 

• Condensation on Surfaces: Water droplets or fog on the inside of windows, mirrors, or metal surfaces is a clear sign that the air is holding too much moisture for the current temperature.

• Manage Pets: Pets are our best friends yet they contribute to a wide range of reasons why there's pollen, dust and odors in your house. 

• Musty Odors: A persistent stale or musty smell, especially in areas with poor ventilation like certain walls, closets, or bathrooms, often indicates hidden mold or mildew growth.

• Mold and Mildew Growth: Look for black, green, or white fuzzy spots on walls, ceilings, shower curtains, or around window sills.

• Physical Discomfort: The air may feel "muggy," "stuffy," or "sticky," and you might find yourself sweating more even if the temperature is not excessively high.

• Structural and Material Changes:

o Warped Wood: Wood floors, furniture, or window frames may start to swell, warp, or squeak as they absorb moisture.

o Peeling Paint or Wallpaper: Excess moisture can cause paint to bubble, blister, or peel.

o Damp Spots or Stains: Check for unexplained water marks or dark stains on ceilings and walls.

• Increased Pest Activity: High humidity can attract moisture-loving pests like silverfish, spiders, termites, and cockroaches. 

Here a some of the most popular points of interest expressed during the the inital consultation:

Can activated carbon filters remove VOCs (volatile organic compounds) from indoor air?

Yes! VOCs are one of the main pollutant types targeted by activated carbon filters. Before purchasing an air purifier with an activated carbon filter, ask your manufacturer how much activated carbon is contained within the activated carbon filter. The heavier the filter is, the better! This is due to the fact that with devices containing more activated carbon, there is more carbon surface area, making it possible to absorb more chemical pollution like VOCs.  

Why Professional Air Quality Maintenance Services Make Sense

• Convenience: No remembering, no ladder climbing, no guessing filter sizes.

• Consistency: Experienced  technicians follow a schedule and record each visit.

• System Insight: Pros can spot airflow or duct issues early.

• Clean Handling: Filters disposed of properly, grills wiped, and vents checked.

The Logic Behind Regular Air Quality Maintenance 

Restricted Airflow Clogged filters force the blower to push harder, using more electricity. Replace filters every 15-30 days to restore efficient operation, prevent premature wear, and maintain healthier indoor air. 

Poor Air Quality Dust, pollen, and bacteria recirculate, aggravating allergies, conditions and asthma. Clean filters trap contaminants before they contaminate your home.

System Damage Dirty filters lead to frozen coils and fan motor strain. Routine filter maintenance prevents costly repairs.

Higher Energy Bills Studies show dirty filters will raise energy costs up to 50%. Fresh filters keep airflow optimal and bills low.