Question: What do gas stoves, newly installed carpets and your dog have in common? Answer: They can all cause poor indoor air quality (IAQ).
Long before the Covid pandemic, homeowners were concerned about the link between poor indoor air quality (IAQ) and health problems. Today, some homeowners are even more worried. The pandemic has raised questions about IAQ and safety, especially as people spend more time at home.
With expertise in IAQ, HVAC technicians and business owners are uniquely positioned to put homeowners at ease. The EverRest Group clients, in particular, understand the importance of homeowners having an HVAC system that runs at peak performance to battle allergens, airborne diseases and pollutants.
Before we dive into solutions for poor IAQ, let’s first look at the leading causes:
- Emissions from gas appliances like fireplaces, stoves and water heaters
A growing body of evidence shows indoor gas appliances release toxins, including formaldehyde and carbon monoxide.
- Wood-burning stoves and fireplaces
Wood smoke contains fine particles that can cause respiratory problems, trigger asthma attacks and exacerbate heart problems.
- Pet dander
Pet dander — dried skin cells and proteins found in animal saliva – can trigger allergic reactions in some people.
- Tobacco products
Tobacco products, such as cigarettes, cigars and pipes, emit secondhand smoke that contains more than 70 cancer-causing chemicals.
- New carpeting, pressed wood products and other building materials
Some new building materials, such as paint, flooring and laminate wood products, contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that cause eye, throat, chest irritations and central nervous system damage.
- Outdoor sources
Air pollution, pesticides and naturally occurring radon gas can seep into a home through open windows and cracks in walls and ceilings, causing respiratory problems, cancer and heart disease.
- Dirty HVAC units
Old, inefficient HVAC units that contain dust and mold are breeding grounds for contaminants that produce poor air quality.
Of course, homeowners are also concerned about the problems caused by airborne viruses, including Covid, the flu and mumps. Homeowners need solutions that will benefit the whole house rather than a room or two.
HVAC technicians using the EverRest method have several ways to improve IAQ, including by:
- Performing seasonal maintenance and using EverRest-specific tasks
Technicians who perform seasonal tune-ups and use EverRest practices (Lead Generation Tasks and Mandatory and Secondary Lead Conditions) provide homeowners with an accurate snapshot of problems and practical solutions. - Replacing and upgrading HVAC systems
As HVAC systems age, they develop issues that include leaks, rust, cracks and mold that can cause IAQ problems. Homeowners deserve an HVAC system that runs at peak performance. - Add air quality products and services that address specific concerns
HVAC companies have an array of tools at their disposal to address homeowner concerns about IAQ. Some companies have added duct cleaning services, while others offer products like media air cleaners, ultraviolet air purifiers and high-efficiency filters.
Overall, homeowners concerned about IAQ need an HVAC business that offers an array of products and services to tackle the problems. EverRest clients have a variety of tools at their fingertips to enhance customer confidence and improve sales.
