We usually think of our home as a safe haven from the outside world. While most people are typically concerned with pollution and outdoor air quality, we sometimes forgot to consider the type of air that is circulating through our homes. Unbeknownst to many, our homes can be one of the major sources for allergies and airborne illnesses. These health conditions can lead to costly bills for doctors’ visits and prescription medications.
Thanks to some new technology available for in-home use, homeowners now have a chance to dramatically increase the quality of air within their home. Products like whole-house electric air cleaners and UV treatment systems can help to reduce or eliminate allergens, bacteria, and viruses within your home, leading to overall better health for you and your family in addition to added comfort.
UV Treatment Systems
While this technology has been around for a while, it’s fairly new to the general consumer market. UV treatment systems are commonly used in buildings like public pools, government offices, homeless shelters, and hospitals because of their effectiveness in killing harmful airborne organisms.
How it works:
UV light is able to zap live organisms like viruses, bacteria, and even mold so that they are no longer harmful. UV lamps can be installed into almost any already present cooling or heating system. As the air in your home circulates through your heating or AC system, the UV lamps purify it by killing any organisms that are present. When the air flows back through your vents, it’s free of irritants. UV bulbs in these types of treatment systems typically need to be replaced annually to ensure that they are still effectively killing airborne organisms.
How Much Does it Cost?
The cost of UV treatment systems varies with styles and brands. Bulbs can range anywhere from $100 – $500. Because they do need to be replaced annually, it doesn’t involve just a one-time cost. However, considering the money most people save on doctor bills and medications, the extra yearly cost is well worth it.
Whole-House Electric Air Cleaners
If you or anyone in your home struggles with allergies, a whole-house electric air cleaner could be the answer to much happier and healthier home environment.
How it works:
Whole-house air cleaners act as a filter for all the air in your home to remove particles and contaminants – typically those that contribute to allergies or other respiratory issues. These filters are different from other standalone air filters in that they work with your home heating or cooling system to purify all the air that flows through your home. These systems are popular with people who have allergies to irritants like pet dander, mold, or other particles that come from materials like carpet and dust.
How Much Does it Cost?
Because they are a larger unit, whole-house electric air cleaners are generally more expensive than other air filtration systems. Costs can range between $200-$2000, depending on the complexity and quality of the system. They may also require an installation cost, depending on the type of system you choose.
About the Author:
Erika Potter is a marketing specialist for Air Design, a leading provider of Utah heating, air conditioning, and indoor air quality products and services.
Wow, thanks for the post. That makes me want to get a air conditioning replacement. I want my family to feel safe and I want peace of mind.
Can you give more information about filters and allergy?
I have not thought about this before. I used to think about my air conditioning to be clean. I will have to try out the UV treatment. I think that it is a great idea. I bet that it would really improve the air quality inside my home.
So it seems that cleaning the dust won’t cut it. Now I have to pick up those UV treatment so my little ones won’t suffer from dust and other stuff. Thanks!