Indoor Air Quality

What These IAQ Products Help With 

Most homes deal with three types of indoor air contamination—and all three can impact comfort, efficiency, and your health:

 

1. Particles (dust and allergens)
2. Germs (microbial growth and infectious agents)
3. Gases (chemical vapors and odors)

 

A whole-home indoor air cleaning strategy addresses all three. At Freeman Heat & Air, we tailor IAQ solutions to your home and your needs. Call us at 918-503-6372 or request service online for your custom IAQ analysis and start breathing healthier, cleaner air. 

 

1. Particles

The term particles encompasses dust, pollen, skin flakes, smoke, pet dander, hair, and dust mite debris. Over time, particles can build up on your HVAC blowers, coils, ducts, and filters. When particles build up, they can:

 

• Increase utility bills
• Reduce airflow
• Cause unnecessary repairs
• Shorten HVAC system life
• Lead to system breakdowns

 

In fact, a Texas A&M study notes that even small dirt buildup on a blower wheel can reduce airflow significantly. Additionally, Prism Engineering notes that dust buildup on an evaporator coil can reduce system efficiency.

 

Filtration Options to Manage Particles

• GOOD: 1” Store-Bought Filter
  Limited protection for equipment and health; may restrict airflow if MERV rating is too high.
• BETTER: Media Filter (Box Style)
  Better equipment protection with improved airflow compared to 1” filters.
• BEST: Whole-Home Air Cleaner
  Best protection for your HVAC system and your health, optimal airflow, and a long-term solution

 

Want cleaner air and better airflow? Schedule an Indoor Air Quality evaluation.

 

2. Germs

The term germs refers to viruses, bacteria, pathogens, and biological growth that can exist inside your home and HVAC system. These contaminants can settle on system components and circulate through the air you breathe. When germs are present in your HVAC system, they can:

 

• Contribute to microbial growth on coils and drain pans
• Circulate throughout the home via airflow
• Aggravate respiratory issues and allergies
• Create persistent odors and indoor air discomfort

 

Most homes rely on UV technology to help manage germs, but not all UV systems are created equal. It’s important to understand what UV can—and cannot—do.

 

In general, many UVC lamps are designed primarily for surface germ control, not full airborne germ reduction. However, higher-output systems installed correctly can provide more comprehensive protection.

 

UV Options to Manage Germs

• GOOD: Cheap Online UV Kits
  Overstated claims, low output, and limited real-world effectiveness. Often not designed for HVAC use—buyer beware.
• BETTER: Basic HVAC UV Systems
  Low-intensity UV designed mainly for surface treatment. Helps reduce bio-growth on coils but offers limited airborne germ control.
• BEST: High-Output HVAC UV Systems (BioForce Defender™-Style)
  High-intensity UV designed for HVAC applications. Provides strong surface control for bio-growth and, depending on system design, can help address airborne microbes.

 

Concerned about germs circulating through your HVAC system? Schedule an Indoor Air Quality evaluation to find the right UV solution for your home.

 

3. Gases and Odors

The terms gases and odors refer to chemical vapors and unpleasant smells released from common household sources such as cleaning products, furniture, building materials, paints, and adhesives. These contaminants, commonly referred to as VOCs, can linger in your home long after the source is gone. When gases and odors are present, they can:

 

• Cause persistent or recurring odors
• Contribute to headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue
• Reduce overall indoor comfort
• Make indoor air feel stale or irritating

 

In fact, a study conducted by Harvard University in collaboration with the Silent Spring Institute found toxic compounds in tested homes, including chemicals commonly emitted by furniture and building materials.

 

Options to Manage Gases and Odors

• GOOD: Room Deodorizers and Air Fresheners
  Mask odors temporarily but do not remove the gases causing them.
• BETTER: Whole-Home Carbon Filtration
  Helps absorb chemical vapors and reduce odors throughout the home, improving overall comfort.
• BEST: Advanced IAQ Systems (Carbon + UV / Dual-Lamp UV)
  Designed to actively address chemical gases and odors at the source. Some dual-lamp UV systems can help manage both gases and germs, depending on system design.

 

Struggling with lingering odors or chemical smells? Schedule an Indoor Air Quality evaluation to identify the source and the right solution for your home.