You changed your air filter last month. So why does your home still feel stuffy, dusty, or stale by the time the afternoon rolls around? For many Upstate NY homeowners, a fresh filter is often seen as the final step for indoor air quality. In reality, it is just one piece of a bigger system, and not every filter is built to catch what actually bothers you.

What Your Air Filter Is Actually Rated To Do

Every air filter carries a MERV rating, which stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. The scale runs from 1 to 16, and it measures how well a filter traps particles as they pass through your furnace or air handler. A basic MERV 8 filter, the kind sold in most hardware stores, catches dust, lint, and pollen. It does very little against smoke, bacteria, or the fine particles that trigger allergy and asthma symptoms.

Stepping up to a MERV 13 filter closes a lot of that gap. It captures smoke particles, most bacteria, and many of the microscopic irritants that a MERV 8 filter lets right through. That jump matters most during allergy season, when pollen counts climb across the Capital Region, and during wildfire smoke events, which have become a more regular part of Upstate NY summers.

Where HEPA Fits Into the Picture

HEPA stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air, and it sits above the MERV scale entirely. A true HEPA filter traps 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, which is a meaningfully higher standard than even a MERV 16 filter reaches. That level of filtration sounds like the obvious upgrade, but it comes with a catch that most standard residential systems were never designed to handle.

Why More Filtration Isn’t Always Better

HEPA media is dense. Pushing air through it takes far more static pressure than a typical residential furnace or air handler can generate. Installing a true HEPA filter into a system that wasn’t engineered for it can restrict airflow, strain the blower motor, and shorten the life of the equipment it’s supposed to protect. This is the main reason most HVAC professionals recommend a MERV 13 filter for whole-home use instead of chasing a HEPA rating. It offers a real jump in filtration without asking your system to work harder than it was built for.

Filtration Alone Won’t Solve Every Air Quality Problem

A better filter helps with airborne particles, but it does nothing for humidity, and humidity is where a lot of Upstate NY indoor air problems start. Damp basements and poorly ventilated bathrooms create the conditions mold and dust mites need to thrive, no matter how good your filter is. Homes also carry indoor air pollutants that a filter can’t touch at all, including some cooking byproducts and off-gassing from furniture and building materials.

This is where a whole-home humidifier and dedicated air purification equipment come in. A humidifier keeps winter air from drying out your sinuses and your home’s woodwork, while a purification system, often paired with UV light, targets airborne contaminants that pass right through a standard filter. Used together with the right filtration, these systems cover the gaps that filtration by itself leaves open.

Signs Your Current Setup Isn’t Doing Enough

A few signals suggest it’s time to look past the filter aisle. Persistent dust on surfaces within days of cleaning points to weak filtration or leaky ductwork. Family members waking up congested, even outside of typical allergy season, often traces back to airborne particles or humidity imbalance. A musty smell that lingers, especially near a basement or crawl space, usually means moisture and mold rather than anything a filter change will fix.

According to the EPA’s guide to air cleaners in the home, portable air cleaners and HVAC filters can meaningfully reduce indoor pollution, but they work best as part of a broader indoor air quality strategy rather than a standalone fix.

If your home is showing any of these signs, an in-home assessment is the fastest way to find out whether the fix is a better filter, added humidity control, or a full air purification setup. Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical evaluates your whole system, not just the filter slot, and builds a plan based on what your home actually needs. Contact us to schedule an indoor air quality evaluation for your Capital Region home.

FAQs About Home Air Filtration

Do you really need a HEPA filter for your home?

Most homeowners don’t need a true HEPA filter, and standard residential HVAC systems usually can’t run one without straining the blower motor. A MERV 13 filter gives you a strong upgrade in particle filtration, including smoke and bacteria, without the airflow restriction that comes with HEPA media.

What are the downsides of using a HEPA filter in a home HVAC system?

The biggest downside is airflow restriction. HEPA media is dense enough that most furnaces and air handlers have to work harder to pull air through it, which can shorten equipment life and, in some cases, reduce heating and cooling performance throughout the house.

Is a MERV 13 filter too much for a typical home system?

For most modern residential systems, a MERV 13 filter is a comfortable middle ground that improves filtration without overloading the blower. Older or smaller systems may need an evaluation first to confirm they can handle the added static pressure before upgrading.

When the air inside your home feels stale or stuffy, opening a window is the first instinct. It’s a logical reaction, and on a clear fall day in upstate NY, it can provide a brief sense of relief. But if your home has ongoing air quality issues, cracking a window doesn’t come close to solving the problem. In most cases, it can make things worse.

Modern homes are built with energy efficiency in mind. Tighter insulation and better sealing reduce drafts and lower heating bills, but they also trap indoor air pollutants that have no way to escape. The result is a cycle that outdoor air alone can’t break.

What’s Actually in Your Indoor Air

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that indoor air is often two to five times more polluted than outdoor air, and Americans spend roughly 90 percent of their time indoors. In Upstate NY, where homes are sealed against the cold for five or more months each year, that statistic becomes especially relevant.

Common indoor pollutants include:

• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs): Released by paint, cleaning products, furniture, and building materials
• Biological contaminants: Mold spores, dust mites, pet dander, and pollen that drifts in through gaps or on clothing
• Combustion byproducts: Carbon monoxide and fine particles from gas appliances, fireplaces, or attached garages
• Humidity imbalance: Both too-dry air in winter and excess moisture in summer create separate problems, from cracked skin and static to mold growth

Opening windows does let in some fresh air, but it also brings pollen during allergy season, humidity on hot August days, and whatever is burning in your neighborhood. It bypasses the filtration your HVAC system provides and does nothing about the sources of pollution already inside.

What Actually Improves Indoor Air Quality

Genuine improvement requires addressing the sources of indoor pollution and treating the air your home circulates. The right combination of products depends on your home’s specific issues. Our post on MERV-16 filters and UV-C for Upstate NY allergy seasons covers filtration in detail, but here’s a summary of what works:

High-efficiency air filtration: MERV-13 through MERV-16 filters trap fine particles, including pollen, mold spores, and pet dander, at the furnace level, cleaning the air every time your system runs. Standard 1-inch filters don’t come close to this performance.

UV-C light systems: Installed inside your ductwork or air handler, UV-C lights neutralize mold, bacteria, and viruses as air passes through. They’re especially useful in humid climates where biological growth inside ductwork is a real risk.

Whole-home air purifiers: Unlike portable units that treat a single room, whole-home purifiers connect directly to your HVAC system and filter every cubic foot of air that circulates through your home.

Humidity control: A whole-home humidifier prevents the dry winter air that irritates airways, cracks woodwork, and increases static electricity. A dehumidifier handles the opposite problem in summer, reducing the moisture that promotes mold and dust mite growth.

Ventilation systems: Energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) bring in controlled amounts of fresh outdoor air while capturing heat from the outgoing air, so you get the ventilation benefit of an open window without the energy penalty or the unfiltered outdoor air.

Signs Your Home Has an Air Quality Problem

You don’t always need a test to know something is off. Watch for:

• Allergy or asthma symptoms that are worse indoors than outside
• Musty or stale odors, especially in basements, bathrooms, or near HVAC vents
• Visible dust accumulation even after recent cleaning
• Increased static electricity or dry skin during winter months
• Condensation on windows or walls

Any of these points to an air quality issue that an open window won’t fix.

Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical offers a full range of indoor air quality services for homes across Clifton Park, Albany, Saratoga Springs, and the surrounding Capital Region. Whether you need a filtration upgrade, a UV system, or a whole-home humidity solution, our team can assess your home and recommend what will actually make a difference. Call us or schedule a consultation online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is indoor air really more polluted than outdoor air?

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air is frequently two to five times more polluted than outdoor air and, in some cases, even higher. Modern homes with tight insulation trap VOCs, pet dander, mold spores, and combustion byproducts indoors. In Upstate NY, where homes stay sealed for most of the winter, this concentration builds over months without effective filtration or ventilation to clear it.

Do whole-home air purifiers actually make a difference compared to portable units?

Yes, significantly. Portable units treat one room at a time and require regular filter changes and electricity to run independently. Whole-home air purifiers connect directly to your HVAC system and filter every room in the house every time the system cycles. For a 2,000-square-foot home with multiple bedrooms, the difference in coverage and cost-effectiveness is substantial.

How do I know which indoor air quality product my home actually needs?

The right solution depends on your specific problems. Allergy and asthma symptoms point toward filtration upgrades or UV systems. Dry air in winter calls for a whole-home humidifier. Musty smells or visible condensation suggest a dehumidifier or ventilation system. A professional IAQ assessment can identify the source of the problem and recommend a targeted solution rather than a generic one.

If you live in Upstate New York, you know allergy season is not just a few weeks in spring. Between tree pollen, grass, ragweed, and long winters that trap indoor pollutants, the air inside your home can feel just as irritating as the air outside.

That is where the conversation around MERV 16 filters vs. HEPA systems and whole home UV technology really starts to matter. When it comes to improving air quality in your home, filtration and pathogen control work best as a team.

Let’s break down what is really happening in your air and how MERV 16 filters and UV-C systems help.

Why Allergy Season Hits Hard in Upstate NY

Upstate New York’s climate creates the perfect storm for indoor air issues. Cold winters mean sealed windows and recirculated air for months. Spring and summer bring heavy pollen counts. Fall introduces mold spores from damp leaves and fluctuating humidity. Pollen and mold spores are two of the most common seasonal allergy triggers in the Northeast.

What most homeowners don’t realize is that, once these allergens enter your home, they do not just disappear. They settle into ductwork, carpets, and furniture. Then your HVAC system keeps cycling them through the air. 

That is why filtration and pathogen neutralization inside the system matter just as much as what happens outdoors.

MERV 16 Filter vs HEPA: What Is the Difference?

When people compare a MERV 16 filter vs HEPA filter, they are usually trying to figure out which one actually works better, but the reality is that they’re different filters completely, and designed for different purposes. 

Here is the simple version.

• MERV 16 filters are high-efficiency HVAC filters designed to capture very small particles.
• HEPA filters are hospital-grade filters that capture even smaller particles but require specialized equipment.

Understanding MERV 16 Efficiency

MERV stands for minimum efficiency reporting value. The higher the MERV number, the smaller particles these filters can trap.

A MERV 16 filter can capture:

• Pollen: Large seasonal allergy trigger.
• Mold spores: Common in damp basements and crawl spaces.
• Pet dander: Microscopic skin particles.
• Fine dust: Including combustion particles.

MERV 16 efficiency allows it to trap particles down to 0.3 microns at a very high percentage. That includes many bacteria and some virus-carrying droplets.

For most residential HVAC systems, MERV 16 offers extremely strong filtration without the airflow restrictions that true HEPA systems can create in standard ductwork.

When HEPA Makes Sense

HEPA filters capture 99.97 percent of particles at 0.3 microns. That sounds impressive, and it is. That’s why HEPA filters are often used in hospitals and specialized HVAC systems. 

However, whole home HEPA systems typically require a dedicated bypass unit or standalone purifier. They are not usually drop-in replacements for your existing furnace filter, and they are so strong, they can actually cause airflow restrictions in a typical home’s HVAC system. 

For many Upstate NY homes, upgrading to a MERV 16 filter within a properly designed system strikes a balance between filtration power and airflow performance.

Consider Adding a UV Air Purifier

Filtration traps particles. UV-C light handles what filters cannot. A whole-house UV air purifier installs inside your HVAC system and uses ultraviolet light to disrupt the DNA of microorganisms. That process is called pathogen neutralization.

It is especially helpful for:

• Mold growth on coils: UV light reduces biological buildup.
• Airborne bacteria: Neutralize microorganisms passing through the system.
• Odor-causing microbes: Helps reduce musty smells.

The Environmental Protection Agency explains that UV systems can be effective when properly installed within HVAC equipment, especially for controlling microbial growth on surfaces. In damp climates like ours, mold spore reduction is one of the biggest advantages. Even if your filter traps mold spores, UV light helps prevent them from reproducing on wet evaporator coils. That combination makes a noticeable difference in homes that struggle with persistent allergy symptoms.

Why Combining MERV 16 and UV-C Works Better

Here is the thing. Filtration and UV solve different problems.

MERV 16 filters remove particles from the air stream.
UV-C systems neutralize biological contaminants that may grow inside the system.

Together, they create a layered approach:

• Particle capture: Stops allergens from recirculating.
• Pathogen neutralization: Reduces microbial growth inside equipment.
• Mold spore reduction: Limits reproduction on damp surfaces

If you have a goal to improve indoor air quality, NY homeowners may want to rely on this combination.  It also supports other HVAC performance factors like cleaner coils and improved airflow. If you have not had your system inspected recently, regular HVAC maintenance services can identify whether airflow restrictions or coil buildup are contributing to allergy issues.

Signs Your Home Might Need Better Filtration

Not sure whether upgrading is worth it? Look for patterns like these:

• Persistent allergy symptoms indoors: Sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes.
• Dust buildup around vents: Visible accumulation near registers.
• Musty smells when AC runs: Possible microbial growth.
• Frequent filter clogging: Standard filters fill quickly.

If you are already investing in air conditioning repair or seasonal tune-ups, it may be the right time to evaluate filtration upgrades at the same time. Homes with older ductwork may also benefit from a professional evaluation. 

Improving Indoor Air Quality in NY Homes 

In a place like Upstate New York, indoor air quality is not just about comfort. It is about comfortably managing long winters, high humidity swings, and heavy seasonal pollen.

A thoughtful upgrade using MERV 16 efficiency and a whole-house UV air purifier addresses both airborne particles and microbial growth. That layered strategy helps create cleaner, more breathable indoor air without turning your HVAC system into a hospital-grade mechanical room.

It is not about chasing the highest number on a filter label. It is about choosing a system that works with your home’s design and climate.

When to Bring in a Pro

If you are unsure whether your system can handle a MERV 16 upgrade or if a whole-house UV air purifier makes sense for your layout, it helps to have someone take a look. Airflow, duct size, and equipment type all matter.

If you are in the area, Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical can walk you through what would realistically improve your home’s air quality without overcomplicating your system. You can reach us at (518) 241-5929 or schedule an appointment online to talk through your options and get a professional opinion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a MERV 16 filter safe for all HVAC systems?

Not always. Higher efficiency filters can restrict airflow if your system is not designed for them. A professional evaluation ensures your blower motor and ductwork can handle the upgrade.

Does a whole-house UV air purifier replace air filters?

No. UV systems complement filtration but do not capture dust or pollen. You still need a properly rated filter for particle removal.

How often should a MERV 16 filter be changed?

It depends on home size, pets, and allergy levels, but many homeowners replace them every 3 to 6 months. Always follow manufacturer recommendations.

Will this eliminate allergy symptoms?

It can significantly reduce airborne triggers, but no system eliminates all allergens. Combining filtration, humidity control, and routine maintenance provides the best overall results.

Did you know that the air inside your home can be more polluted than the air outside? It’s true. Modern homes are built to be airtight, which means pollutants like dust, pet dander, mold spores, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can accumulate and circulate indoors. But there’s good news: by focusing on two key factors—air filtration and humidity control—you can significantly improve your home’s air quality, comfort, and overall health.

Why Filtration Is Essential

Your HVAC system’s air filter plays a crucial role in trapping airborne particles and preventing them from circulating throughout your home. High-efficiency filters, such as HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters, can capture up to 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including pollen, pet dander, and dust mites. Regularly replacing these filters ensures optimal performance and cleaner air.

In addition to standard filters, whole-house air purifiers can be integrated into your HVAC system to provide an extra layer of protection. These systems use advanced technologies like UV-C light and activated carbon to neutralize bacteria, viruses, and odors, further enhancing indoor air quality.

The Role of Humidity in Indoor Air Quality

Humidity levels in your home can significantly impact both comfort and health. The ideal indoor relative humidity is between 30% and 50%. When humidity levels fall below 30%, the air becomes dry, leading to dry skin, irritated eyes, and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections. Conversely, humidity levels above 50% can promote mold growth, dust mites, and other allergens, exacerbating asthma and allergy symptoms.

Maintaining balanced humidity levels is particularly important during the winter months when heating systems can dry out indoor air. Using a humidifier can help restore moisture, creating a more comfortable and healthier living environment.

The Synergy of Filtration and Humidity Control

While filtration removes airborne particles, humidity control addresses the moisture content in the air. Together, they work synergistically to improve indoor air quality:

• Enhanced Comfort: Balanced humidity levels prevent dry skin and respiratory discomfort, while effective filtration ensures clean, breathable air.

• Healthier Environment: Controlling humidity reduces the growth of mold and dust mites, while filtration removes allergens and pathogens.

• Energy Efficiency: Proper humidity levels can make your home feel warmer in winter and cooler in summer, potentially reducing energy consumption.

Practical Tips for Homeowners

To optimize air quality in your home:

• Regularly Replace Air Filters: Check and replace HVAC filters every 1–3 months, or as recommended by the manufacturer.

• Use Whole-House Air Purifiers: Consider installing a whole-house air purifier to complement your HVAC system’s filtration.

• Monitor Humidity Levels: Use a hygrometer to keep track of indoor humidity and adjust with humidifiers or dehumidifiers as needed.

• Maintain HVAC Systems: Schedule regular maintenance to ensure your HVAC system and air quality equipment are functioning efficiently.

Why Choose Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical?

At Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, we understand the importance of indoor air quality. Our team of experts can assess your home’s air quality needs and recommend tailored solutions, including advanced filtration systems and humidity control options. We’re committed to helping you create a healthier, more comfortable living environment.

Trying to determine whether air filtration vs. air purification is the optimal route for your indoor health? Grasshopper Heating and Cooling can help you decide. Explore how each solution improves indoor air quality below. 

Air Filtration vs. Air Purification

Many home and business owners don’t know the differences between filtration and purification. Both options can help you achieve the same goal: cleaner, healthier air and less microscopic debris. However, they function differently and eliminate different types of particles. Learn more about what each does below. 

What Is Air Filtration?

Air filtration sets the status quo for indoor air quality. This solution involves a filter that circulating air passes through. As the air passes, the filter traps pollutants and particles that would otherwise stay in the environment. 

Types of Air Filtration

Since air filtration is your home’s first defense against pollutants, you likely already have a basic filtration system built into your HVAC equipment. Most modern units feature return registers that house the filters. You should change the filter every three months at a minimum to keep your air minimally clean. 

Some suppliers sell activated carbon filters, which offer more comprehensive particle removal. However, you must ensure that your HVAC system can accommodate these products without becoming overworked. 

You can also enhance your air filtration efforts with portable air filter technology. These units work much like space heaters. You can take them from room to room, plug them in, and set your filtration level. These units also require occasional filter replacements. 

What Is Air Purification?

Many people discuss air filtration vs. air purification as though they are one and the same. However, air purification differs from filtration in that purifiers remove even smaller molecules and can neutralize some pollutants. For example, your filter might simply remove dust mites and particles from circulation, while a purifier kills or renders these particulates completely harmless.  

Types of Air Purification

Diverse varieties of purification technology exist on the market, including:

• Chemical purifiers destroy a pollutant’s cellular structure by dissolving the cell walls and killing the microorganism. 
• Hydrogen peroxide purification systems release small quantities of hydrogen peroxide into the air as it circulates, neutralizing pathogens. 
• UV purifiers feature ultraviolet light bulbs that eradicate organisms like infectious bacteria and viruses. 

The type of purifier you need depends on what contaminants your home contains. 

Which Solution Should You Pick?

As mentioned, most modern buildings already feature a variety of filtration systems. You can improve filtration capabilities by using high-efficiency particulate air filters, otherwise known as HEPA filters. Alternatively, you can purchase portable filter machines and move them throughout your home. 

However, if you want ultimate indoor air quality, consider air purifiers. Most modern HVAC systems do not already possess purifying capabilities for eliminating germs and volatile organic compounds. An HVAC technician can help you select the best solution for your needs. 

Let Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical Help You Choose! 

HVAC technicians at Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical are well-versed in air filtration vs. air purification. Call 518-216-0051 to perfect your indoor air quality with our superior solutions.

Indoor air pollution isn’t a common topic of discussion. Nonetheless, the air in your home may contain high concentrations of biological pollutants and chemicals from cleaning products. Other contaminants include tobacco smoke, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from paints, varnishes, pressed wood, dry-cleaned clothing, and other sources. You may not realize it, but indoor air quality in your Clifton Park, NY, home may affect your family’s comfort, health, and well-being.

Fortunately, there are several ways to improve indoor air quality (IAQ). We’ll explain a few steps to take if you frequently experience sinus or respiratory symptoms, allergies, headaches, fatigue, or other signs of exposure to IAQ pollutants or if an air quality test finds a problem. Here are eight ways you can improve your home’s indoor air quality:

1. Change Your HVAC Filter

Check your air filter once a month and change it every three months or sooner if necessary. An HVAC filter captures dust and debris. If it gets clogged, particulates and allergens can be blown into the air. A dirty filter also reduces an HVAC system’s efficiency and can cause it to overheat.

2. Keep Your Home Clean

Dust and vacuum your home regularly. Use a vacuum cleaner with HEPA filtration; this captures fine particles and prevents dust and dirt from blowing back into the air. Make sure to clean floors, rugs, carpets, furniture, blinds, curtains, countertops, and all other surfaces. Good cleaning habits can improve indoor air quality in a Clifton Park home.

3. Avoid Chemical-Based Cleaning Products

Many consumer cleaning agents and air fresheners contain VOCs and harmful chemicals. Both aerosols and liquids can have ingredients such as sulfates, chlorine, trichloroethylene, and sodium hydroxide, among many others. Avoid such products and bleach-based solutions. Hypoallergenic and even homemade cleaners can be just as effective.

4. Improve Ventilation

Letting outdoor air in can reduce the concentration of indoor pollutants. Your HVAC system may not bring in fresh air. However, you can open windows and doors to let fresh, clean air into your home. If you have a window air conditioner, open the vent control to do so. Running a kitchen or bathroom fan exhausts contaminants from the room and increases ventilation.

5. Increase Ventilation When Engaging in Pollution-Generating Activities

Ventilate your home whenever you cook, paint, wax a floor, or use a kerosene heater, fireplace, or wood-burning stove. Welding, sanding, soldering, and other activities associated with hobbies and maintenance can also contribute to IAQ issues. So, properly ventilate the room when performing these tasks.

6. Take Your Shoes Off at the Front Door

The soles of your shoes collect dirt, germs, and various contaminants you don’t want in your home. Anything on the ground can stick to shoes and be tracked inside. Take your shoes off before entering your home to avoid polluting surfaces and the air and, in some cases, prevent allergy symptoms or illnesses.

7. Buy Houseplants

Houseplants look great and create a more soothing environment. They also remove carbon dioxide from the air and release oxygen. Thus, plants provide a natural means to achieve cleaner and fresher air at home.

8. Install an Air Purifier

An air purifier with a high-quality filter can remove a wide range of particles. It can also remove odors. There are many types of air cleaners. A simple tabletop model can remove some particles, but a whole-house system captures even smaller particulates. The system’s effectiveness is determined based on how well it collects pollutants and how much air it can draw over time. The best systems have an efficient collection medium and high air-circulation rate.

Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical Helps Improve Indoor Air Quality in Clifton Park, NY

The first step to achieving long-term IAQ improvements is to have the air in your home tested. We provide indoor air quality testing services to determine the cause of your symptoms and how to resolve the problem. Our professional team is available in Clifton Park, NY, and throughout the Albany area. Call (518) 240-3807 to schedule service.

The news media often covers outdoor air pollution. But indoor air quality, or IAQ, is just as important. Biological, chemical, and combustion pollutants may be present in your home. They can cause anything from mild irritation to long-term health issues. When you schedule indoor air quality testing near Clifton Park, a contractor should look for the most common pollutants. We’ll provide an overview of these so you’re more informed the next time your IAQ is tested.

IAQ Pollutants to Look For

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor pollutants can be broken down into three categories:

Biological

A wide range of biological hazards may be found in your home. Sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, shortness of breath, and asthma symptoms may be occurring for a reason. Since there are so many types of biological pollutants (including bacteria and other microorganisms), and so many tests, knowing what to look for is important. Some of the most common you might suspect include:

• Mold: Mold exists outdoors and indoors and travels via airborne spores that settle and colonize in dark, humid areas. It can also be carried indoors on your shoes and clothing. Mold can cause musty odors, while some types release toxic compounds that can make you sick.
• Pollen: Pollen grains from trees, grasses, and weeds are prevalent during the warmer months. They can float inside or be carried in by people and pets, and trigger symptoms of hay fever. The best ways to avoid exposure include keeping windows closed and staying inside when pollen counts are high.
• Dust Mites: Feeding off dead skin cells, dust mites can thrive in carpets, bedding, and furniture and produce potent allergens (despite being too small to see). If a test finds dust mites, their levels can be reduced with a dehumidifier or AC, impermeable mattress/pillow covers, by vacuuming/wiping up dust and washing bedding in hot water.

Chemical

Chemical pollutants come in many forms. If you’re scheduling indoor air quality testing near you, make sure the contractor considers any compound that can cause indoor air pollution, irritation, or illness. These include but are not limited to:

• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): These “volatile” compounds easily become vapors or gases. Containing carbon, they can occur naturally or be synthetic. Home cleaning products, disinfectants, paints, wood preservatives, dry-cleaned clothing, stored fuels, craft supplies, building materials, and furnishings may contain VOCs. Some VOCs are relatively harmless, while others are highly toxic, such as benzene and perchloroethylene.
• Formaldehyde: It’s a common VOC found in paints, glues, insulation, paper products, permanent press fabrics, and as a preservative in some cosmetics, personal care products, and medicines. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, formaldehyde is a known carcinogen. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends testing for formaldehyde if there are strong chemical odors or if you have breathing problems and irritation only at home.
• Lead: Lead was used in pipes, pots, and pans in Ancient Rome and, more recently, in paint and batteries. The U.S. government banned lead-based paint in 1978. When airborne, lead can be inhaled or swallowed. At high levels, it can cause convulsions, coma, and death; at low levels, it can harm the central nervous system, kidneys, and blood cells. Test for lead if you have children at home, you live near a freeway or congested roadway, or your home was built before 1978.
• Radon: Radon is a radioactive, colorless gas that forms in soil. Cracks and holes in your home’s foundation can allow it to get inside. If radon particles get trapped in the lungs, they can cause tissue damage and lung cancer. The EPA has recommended radon testing in all homes below the third floor. Short- and long-term tests are available; a trained contractor can determine the best type of test and way to lower radon levels if necessary.

Combustion

Combustion pollutants contain gases and particles that can be a hazard to your health and safety. They are produced from burning fuels. Testing for combustion pollutants can help determine what preventative measures to take. Your contractor should look for:

Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS): Also known as secondhand smoke, ETS contains thousands of compounds and dozens of carcinogens, which can put even non-smokers at risk. Secondhand smoke is a known cause of respiratory problems in children. The best way to prevent exposure to ETS and its health effects is to avoid smoking inside the home.

Carbon Monoxide (CO): This colorless, odorless gas can lead to unconsciousness and death in high concentrations. Even low concentrations of CO can cause a range of symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, weakness, and confusion.  An unvented fireplace, gas space heater or stove, or woodstove can release CO. A malfunctioning gas furnace can also release it into the air. Other combustion pollutants include nitrogen dioxide and particulates.

Improving Indoor Air Quality

To improve IAQ, it’s important to follow your contractor’s recommendations. But you can make improvements even before having your home tested, such as eliminating or reducing pollution sources, ventilating your home, and changing HVAC filters often. A technician will look at the presence and level of a pollutant when performing a test. According to the EPA, here are some acceptable levels:

• Lead: No more than 0.15 µg/m3 over a 3-month rolling average.¹
• Carbon Monoxide: Less than 9 ppm over 8 hours and less than 35 ppm over 1 hour.¹
• Nitrogen Dioxide: Less than 100 ppb over 1 hour and under 53 ppb over 1 year.¹
• Particulate Matter: Primary and secondary particulates should not exceed 15 µg/m3 over 24 hours (as of standards updated in 2012).²

Call Grasshopper to Schedule Indoor Air Quality Testing Near You

Poor indoor air quality is associated with many symptoms and diseases. With indoor air quality testing, common pollutants and their sources can be identified. We can then recommend steps to reduce or eliminate biological, chemical, and combustion pollutants. To request service in Clifton Park, NY, and surrounding areas, contact us online or call (518) 241-1758.

Sources:

1. https://www.epa.gov/criteria-air-pollutants/naaqs-table
2. https://www.epa.gov/pm-pollution/timeline-particulate-matter-pm-national-ambient-air-quality-standards-naaqs

We inhale a lungful of air every few seconds. But most of us don’t realize how many contaminants affect indoor air quality (IAQ) at home. These include mold, cigarette smoke, volatile organic compounds, chemicals from cleaning products, asbestos, radon, and others you may not know are present. Many of these can have long-term impacts on your family’s health. But a trusted home air quality testing provider near you can identify pollutants and ways to keep them out.

Here are some tips for finding a trustworthy IAQ testing company in the Clifton Park area:

Know What Questions to Ask

Finding the right contractor requires getting the answers you need. Every homeowner’s needs are different, which is why the following inquiries will help you decide if you’ve found a suitable IAQ testing provider:

• What types of IAQ testing methods do you use?
• How long will it take to receive the test results?
• Are samples tested in an in-house or outside lab?
• How long will decontaminating my home take?
• When can I safely return to my home?
• Do the chemicals you use harm people or pets?
• How do you structure payments?
• Do you offer a money-back guarantee?

Check the Provider’s Certification

A company you hire for home air quality testing near you must be properly certified. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certifies IAQ testers. Businesses and contractors must demonstrate extensive knowledge and skills to pass the EPA test. Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is EPA-certified to provide home air quality services. Always look for national certifications and consider the types of testing or decontamination you need—some types of service require specific authorizations.

Also, check whether the provider is rated or recommended by a well-known organization. The Better Business Bureau rates companies based on their quality standards and consumer feedback. You can search for a company on the web to see if anyone has filed formal complaints or recent lawsuits against it.

Make Sure the Company Has Insurance

Things can go wrong during air quality testing and decontamination. If a worker causes damage or is injured when performing an IAQ test or cleaning procedure, insurance will cover any costs. Otherwise, the business or you may be liable to pay for damages. 

Being insured is a sign the company is properly qualified and equipped. It should also understand how homeowner’s or renter’s insurance claims work. Home air quality inspections and other services may be covered, depending on your policy. The provider should communicate with the insurance company and file any paperwork involved in covering the service.

Verify It Promotes Health and Safety Standards

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration doesn’t have IAQ standards. But it does regulate ventilation, certain air contaminants, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Businesses are also required to provide cleaning and sanitization services as needed, especially when using potentially toxic chemicals and treatments that can leave behind residue. 

Beware of Shady Tactics

Home air quality testing is a highly specialized service. But not every company that says it does IAQ testing is trustworthy. Avoid any business that:

• Recommends Pre-Testing: Advanced methods such as infrared technology are often expensive and unnecessary. The company should provide details on the equipment it uses; if not, it could be overcharging you using hi-tech devices it doesn’t need.
• Upsells Preventative or Recommended Treatments: It’s best to get a second opinion if you’re not sure about a contractor’s motives. Indeed, some fish for expensive projects when there aren’t any to be found. 
• Quotes an Unreasonably Low Price: You may want to spend less on home air quality testing near you. But an unreasonably low-price quote is a red flag. If one provider’s quote is dramatically less than others, its testing methods and staff training probably aren’t up to par.

Call Grasshopper for Home Air Quality Testing Near Clifton Park, NY

Household cleaning chemicals, paints, varnishes, carpet fumes, radon, biological pollutants, and other contaminants may create IAQ issues in your home. Grasshopper is trusted for home air quality testing in the Albany area and is A+ rated by the Better Business Bureau. Call (518) 252-7939 or schedule service online to request an air quality assessment.