Canadians spend approximately 90 percent of their time indoors, and indoor air can be 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air. In the GTA, where homes are sealed tight against winter cold and summer humidity, indoor air quality is a significant health concern. Here is how to improve the air you breathe at home.
Common Indoor Air Quality Problems
- Dust and allergens circulating through the HVAC system
- Pet dander and hair trapped in ductwork and filters
- Mould and mildew growth from excess humidity
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from paint, cleaners, and furniture
- Carbon monoxide from malfunctioning gas appliances
- Radon gas entering from basement foundations
HVAC-Based Air Quality Solutions
Your HVAC system is the most effective tool for improving whole-home air quality. Upgrading to a higher-MERV filter (11 to 13) captures finer particles. Adding a whole-home HEPA filtration system removes up to 99.97 percent of airborne particles. UV germicidal lights installed in the ductwork kill mould, bacteria, and viruses as air passes through.
Humidity Control
Maintaining indoor humidity between 30 and 50 percent is crucial. In GTA winters, indoor air often drops below 20 percent humidity, causing dry skin, respiratory irritation, and static electricity. A whole-home humidifier integrated with your furnace solves this. In summer, your AC naturally dehumidifies, but a dedicated dehumidifier may be needed for basements.
Ventilation and Fresh Air
Modern homes are built tight for energy efficiency, which can trap stale air and pollutants inside. A heat recovery ventilator (HRV) or energy recovery ventilator (ERV) brings in fresh outdoor air while recovering heat from the exhaust air, maintaining efficiency. HRVs are particularly popular in the GTA for improving air quality without driving up heating costs.
Simple Steps You Can Take Today
- Change your HVAC filter regularly (every 1 to 3 months)
- Vacuum with a HEPA-filter vacuum at least weekly
- Run bathroom exhaust fans during and after showers
- Avoid smoking indoors and minimize use of chemical cleaners
- Keep houseplants to naturally filter some pollutants
- Test your home for radon, especially if you have a basement
Want professional help improving your indoor air quality? ZK Mechanical offers air quality assessments and installs HEPA filters, UV lights, humidifiers, and HRV systems for homes across the Greater Toronto Area. Contact us for a consultation.