Right now the world is obsessed with the Coronavirus, and with good reason. It’s surrounded in uncertainty and leaves tragedy in its wake. Feeling helpless is something we all have in common when the only thing we can do is stay home and wait. Keeping yourself and your family safe is the most important thing right now. So as the CDC preaches hand washing and disinfecting everything from our countertops to the groceries we buy; the question bears asking how clean is the air we breathe in our homes?
UV Light Air Purification
UV light air purification might be a solution for you. UV germicidal lights are used in hospitals to kill bacteria and viruses and to sterilize equipment. When it comes to homes, a UV light can be paired with a forced air system. It is installed inside the return air duct, so you will not see it or be exposed to it. As the air in your home makes its way through the duct and passes the UV light, it is sanitized. The people that benefit most from air purifiers are the same people that are most affected by the Coronavirus.
Those with allergies and asthma
The elderly
Infants
The immune compromised
Now naturally, COVID-19’s response to UV light is unknown, but cleaning the air in our homes will only help in the fight against the disease: keeping our immune systems high and healthy. Clean air and a peace of mind are always good things. However, if investing in the UV germicidal light air purifier isn’t for you, there are plenty of other ways to help get your home pandemic ready.
Social Distance
First and foremost: follow the CDC guidelines on social distancing and personal hygiene habits. We have all heard these but their importance merits mentioning.
Stay home whenever possible
Keep six feet apart from other people
No unnecessary outings
Wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face
Frequently disinfect surfaces: counters, doorknobs, light switches, phones
Don’t put off your annual A/C unit tune-up
It’s understandable to be wary of permitting others into your home as many of us are following CDC guidelines and practicing social distancing. This is why we, and many other contractors, now offer no-contact A/C maintenance, you can benefit from our services worry-free. More time spent at home means your unit is running more often than normal and will require some attention.
Change Your HVAC Filter Regularly
Your HVAC system is your friend now more than ever as it circulates quality air through your home, but only if your filter is clear! The filter keeps dust and debris out of the unit and thus the air you breathe. Clogged filters not only obstruct airflow and circulate dirty air, they can also raise energy costs and damage your unit.
Consider a Humidifier
Viruses and bacteria cannot travel as well in moist air. A room humidifier would be the better option during warmer months as whole-home humidifiers operate solely with your heating system.
The news is filled with contradictions and so it seems the world will be hunkering down for the unforeseeable future and more and more time will be spent in our homes. This time will certainly be more enjoyable (bearable?) if spent in comfort and with peace of mind. Follow this short list, listen to the experts and stay safe, stay home, and stay healthy! We are all in this together and we want to do our part in any way we can!
