Having a whole house air cleaner and purifier installed is one of the smartest things you can do for your home and your health. Especially here in Michigan where the homes are closed up tight for half the year during late fall, winter and into early spring. And for the people that use air conditioning in the summer, their homes are closed up almost all the time. When this happens, the indoor air quality will suffer greatly. Below we list some of the benefits of having a whole house indoor air purifier installed on your furnace!
Getting a whole-house air cleaner for your furnace has several benefits, especially if you prioritize indoor air quality. Here are some key reasons to consider one:
1. Better Air Quality Throughout Your Home
- Unlike portable air purifiers, a whole-house air cleaner is installed in your HVAC system and filters air throughout your home, ensuring consistently clean air in all rooms.
Read more: Why Your Home Should Have a Whole House Air Purifier
Why Your Home Should Have a Whole House Humidifier
Michigan winters can be very cold and dry. The outside air is so dry that it affects the indoor air humidity which can really wreck havoc on your home and on your health! One of the best ways to combat dry air in your home and thereby rectifying most of the issues you will have with dry air is to get a whole house humidifier. Trying to keep the humidity level in your home at or above 40% is ideal for most homes here in Michigan.
Dry air in your home can cause many issues:
- Dry skin, eyes, and throat:
- Dry skin can lead to itching, flaking, and in severe cases, cracking which can result in pain and potential infections.
- Dry eyes can cause irritation, redness, and a gritty sensation, potentially leading to blurred vision and increased sensitivity to light.
- A dry throat can result in a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and a persistent cough. These symptoms can significantly impact daily comfort and quality of life.
- Increased static electricity:
Static electricity in a dry home can cause several issues:
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Static Shocks: You may experience sudden, small electric shocks when touching objects or people.
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Clingy Clothes: Clothes can stick together and to your body, making them difficult to wear and remove.
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Hair Problems: Hair can become frizzy and stand up, making it harder to style.
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Damage to Electronics: Static electricity can potentially damage sensitive electronic devices, though this is less common with modern insulation.
To mitigate these issues, consider using a humidifier to maintain a relative humidity level between 40% and 60%, which can help reduce static electricity and its associated problems.
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Furnace Maintenance for a Healthier Furnace and Extended Lifespan
Before winter sets in, it's important to ensure that your furnace is in good working condition to keep your home warm and safe during the cold Michigan months. Here are some key furnace concerns to address before the winter:
1. Change or Clean the Furnace Air Filter
Why: A clogged or dirty air filter restricts airflow, causing your furnace to work harder, which can reduce efficiency and lead to system failure.
What to do: Check the air filter and replace it if it’s dirty. If your furnace uses a washable filter, clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Inspect the Thermostat
Why: If your thermostat isn't functioning properly, it could lead to uneven heating or prevent your furnace from turning on altogether.
What to do: Make sure the thermostat is set to "heat" and is at the desired temperature. If it's a manual thermostat, check the settings; if it's a smart thermostat, ensure the system is programmed correctly and that the batteries (if applicable) are fresh.