Whole House Air Filtration in Mt Lebanon, PA

Benefits of Whole House Air Filtration

The primary advantage of installing a whole house air filtration system is the significant improvement in indoor air quality. These systems are designed to capture a much broader range of contaminants than standard filters. This includes tiny particles such as dust mites, pet dander, pollen, mold spores, bacteria, and even some viruses. For residents in Mt Lebanon who suffer from allergies or respiratory conditions, this can mean a noticeable reduction in symptoms and a healthier living environment. Even for those without specific health concerns, cleaner air contributes to overall wellness and reduces household dust.

Beyond health benefits, whole house air filtration systems also contribute to the longevity and efficiency of your HVAC equipment. By capturing a high percentage of airborne particles, they prevent these contaminants from building up within your furnace, air conditioner, and ductwork. This reduces wear and tear on critical components, helps maintain system efficiency, and can potentially lower energy costs over time. Less dust and debris circulating also means less frequent cleaning of your home's surfaces.

Media vs. Electronic Air Cleaners: Choosing the Best Filtration for Your Home

There are primarily two types of whole house air filtration systems commonly installed:

• Media Air Cleaners: These systems utilize a thick, pleated filter media, much larger and denser than standard furnace filters. They are typically rated using the MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) scale, which indicates how effectively the filter captures particles of various sizes. Higher MERV ratings mean greater filtration efficiency. Media filters capture particles by trapping them within the dense material as air passes through. They are highly effective for capturing dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores. These filters require replacement periodically, typically every 6 to 12 months, depending on usage and household conditions.
• Electronic Air Cleaners: Also known as electronic precipitators, these systems use an electrostatic charge to capture particles. As air enters the cleaner, particles pass through a charging section where they receive an electrical charge. They then pass through a collection section composed of charged plates. The charged particles are attracted to the oppositely charged plates and are captured. Electronic air cleaners are highly effective at removing even smaller particles, such as smoke, bacteria, and viruses, in addition to larger pollutants. Instead of disposable filters, the collection plates in electronic air cleaners need to be removed and cleaned periodically.

Both media and electronic systems offer significant improvements over standard filters, but the best choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and the type of pollutants you are most concerned about. At Sureway Heating Cooling Plumbing, our experienced technicians can help you assess your indoor air quality concerns and recommend the most suitable system for your Mt. Lebanon home.

Integrating Whole House Air Filtration with Your HVAC System

The installation process for a whole house air filtration system is straightforward for a qualified HVAC professional. The system is integrated into your existing ductwork, typically near the furnace or air handler. For media filters, a larger housing is installed to accommodate the thicker filter. For electronic air cleaners, the unit containing the charging and collection sections is installed. The process involves cutting into the ductwork, securing the new unit, ensuring proper seals, and in the case of electronic systems, connecting the power supply. Because the system relies on your home's ductwork and HVAC system to function correctly, professional installation is crucial to ensure the system is properly sized, sealed, and integrated for optimal performance. Improper installation can lead to air leaks, reduced airflow, and diminished filtration effectiveness.

Whole House Air Filtration Maintenance: What Homeowners Need to Know

Once installed, the system works seamlessly with your HVAC unit whenever the fan is running, circulating and cleaning the air throughout your entire home. You often don't need to do anything manually for the system to operate, other than ensuring your thermostat is set to cycle the fan.

Like any component of your home's HVAC system, regular maintenance is key to ensuring your whole house air filtration system continues to perform effectively. The specific maintenance requirements vary depending on the type of system you have:

1. Media Filters: The thick media filter cartridge needs to be replaced according to the manufacturer's recommendations, usually every 6 to 12 months. Failing to replace the filter on time will reduce its effectiveness and can restrict airflow, potentially putting a strain on your HVAC system. The replacement process is typically simple, involving opening the filter housing and sliding out the old filter and inserting the new one.
2. Electronic Air Cleaners: These systems require periodic cleaning of the collection plates. Depending on the level of pollutants in your home, this might be needed every 1 to 3 months. The cleaning process involves turning off the power to the unit, removing the collection plates, washing them with soap and water, rinsing thoroughly, drying completely, and reinstalling them. Some units also have a pre-filter that may need vacuuming or rinsing more frequently.

Regular maintenance ensures the system continues to capture pollutants efficiently and maintain optimal airflow. It's often recommended to have your air filtration system checked as part of your regular HVAC Maintenance appointments. During a maintenance visit, a technician can inspect the unit, ensure it's operating correctly, advise on filter replacement or cleaning schedules, and address any potential issues before they impact performance.

Your Local Experts in Clean, Healthy Indoor Air

Choosing to install a whole house air filtration system is an investment in your home's health and comfort. It provides a layer of protection against airborne pollutants that standard filters cannot match, contributing to easier breathing, reduced allergies, and a cleaner living space for everyone in your Mt Lebanon home. With different system types available, you can select a solution that best fits your specific air quality concerns and budget.

Our team specializes in Indoor Air Quality solutions and has the expertise to help you choose, install, and maintain the right whole house air filtration system for your residence. We understand the unique needs of homes in the Mt Lebanon area and are committed to helping you achieve the cleanest, healthiest indoor air possible. From assessing your current air quality to recommending the ideal system and ensuring a professional installation, we guide you through every step. We also provide comprehensive HVAC Maintenance services to keep your filtration system and overall HVAC unit running smoothly year after year. Investing in whole house air filtration is a proactive step towards a healthier, more comfortable home environment.