Improving Indoor Air Quality with Your HVAC System

Improving Indoor Air Quality with Your HVAC System

At 7,000 feet elevation, Santa Fe's thin air and dry climate present unique air quality challenges. Optimize your HVAC for healthier indoor air.

Why Indoor Air Quality Matters

• We spend 90% of time indoors
• Indoor air can be 2-5x more polluted than outdoor
• Affects health, comfort, and productivity
• Especially important at high altitude

Common Indoor Air Pollutants

Particulate Matter

• Dust and dust mites
• Pollen and allergens
• Pet dander
• Smoke particles

VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)

• Cleaning products
• Paints and adhesives
• Furniture off-gassing
• Air fresheners

Biological Contaminants

• Mold spores
• Bacteria
• Viruses
• Fungal growth

Gases

• Radon (common in New Mexico)
• Carbon monoxide
• Cooking gases
• Outdoor pollution infiltration

HVAC Air Quality Solutions

High-Efficiency Air Filters

MERV Ratings:

• MERV 8: Basic dust and pollen
• MERV 11: Better allergen control
• MERV 13: Hospital-grade filtration
• MERV 16: Maximum residential filtration

Benefits:

• Captures smaller particles
• Reduces allergens
• Cleaner HVAC system
• Better respiratory health

Considerations:

• Change every 1-2 months
• May reduce airflow slightly
• Check HVAC compatibility
• Worth the investment

HEPA Filtration

• Removes 99.97% of particles
• Medical-grade air cleaning
• Excellent for allergies/asthma
• May require system modifications

UV Air Purifiers

How They Work:

• UV-C light kills microorganisms
• Install in ductwork
• Prevents mold growth
• Reduces bacteria and viruses

Benefits:

• No filters to replace
• Low maintenance
• Effective against biologicals
• Energy efficient

Whole-House Humidifiers

Why Needed in Santa Fe:

• Desert climate very dry
• Winter heating further dries air
• Ideal humidity: 30-50%
• Current often below 20%

Benefits:

• Reduces respiratory irritation
• Protects wood furniture
• Feels warmer (lower heating costs)
• Better sleep quality
• Reduces static electricity

Types:

• Bypass humidifiers
• Fan-powered models
• Steam humidifiers
• Evaporative units

Air Purification Systems

Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO):

• Advanced technology
• Destroys pollutants at molecular level
• Effective against VOCs
• Kills bacteria and viruses

Electronic Air Cleaners:

• Electrically charge particles
• Collection plates capture them
• Washable/reusable
• Very effective

Ventilation Improvements

Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERV)

How They Work:

• Bring in fresh outdoor air
• Remove stale indoor air
• Recover heat/cooling energy
• Maintain humidity levels

Benefits:

• Continuous fresh air
• Energy efficient
• Reduces indoor pollutants
• Balanced ventilation

Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRV)

• Similar to ERV
• Transfers heat only (not moisture)
• Better for some climates
• Efficient fresh air exchange

Ductwork Considerations

Professional Duct Cleaning

Benefits:

• Removes accumulated dust
• Eliminates mold growth
• Improves airflow
• Reduces allergen circulation

When Needed:

• Every 3-5 years
• After renovation
• Mold/odor issues
• Pest infestation
• New home purchase

Duct Sealing

• Reduces air leaks
• Improves efficiency
• Better air quality
• Prevents dust infiltration

Maintenance for Better Air Quality

Regular Filter Changes

• Mark calendar for changes
• Check monthly
• Don't skip during mild weather
• System runs year-round at altitude

HVAC Cleaning

• Annual professional service
• Clean coils and blower
• Check condensate drain
• Inspect for mold

Humidity Control

• Monitor with hygrometer
• Maintain 30-50% RH
• Address moisture sources
• Use exhaust fans

Santa Fe Specific Considerations

High Altitude Effects

• Lower oxygen levels
• Proper ventilation crucial
• HVAC runs more often
• Filter changes more frequent

Dry Climate Challenges

• Very low humidity
• Increased dust
• Static electricity
• Respiratory irritation

Wildfire Smoke

• Seasonal concern
• Upgrade filters during fire season
• Keep windows closed
• Run HVAC fan continuously

Adobe Home Air Quality

• Thick walls reduce natural ventilation
• May need mechanical ventilation
• Moisture management important
• Historic homes need special care

Room-by-Room Solutions

Bedrooms

• HEPA air purifier
• Allergen-proof bedding
• Humidifier for comfort
• Keep pets out

Kitchen

• Exhaust fan to outside
• Range hood use essential
• Address gas appliance concerns
• Proper ventilation

Bathrooms

• Exhaust fans to outside
• Run during and after showers
• Prevent mold growth
• Consider humidity sensors

Basements

• Dehumidification if needed
• Radon testing
• Proper ventilation
• Moisture prevention

Health Benefits

• Reduced allergy symptoms
• Better asthma control
• Fewer respiratory infections
• Improved sleep quality
• Enhanced cognitive function
• Better overall health

Cost vs. Value

Investment Ranges

• High-efficiency filters: $20-50 each
• UV purifier: $500-1,500 installed
• Humidifier: $400-1,200 installed
• ERV/HRV: $1,200-3,000 installed
• Whole-house purifier: $1,000-3,500

ROI Considerations

• Health improvements priceless
• Reduced medical costs
• Better sleep and productivity
• HVAC system protection
• Energy savings possible

Professional Assessment

Lobo Tech Air Quality Services

• Indoor air quality testing
• Humidity level measurement
• HVAC system evaluation
• Customized solutions
• Professional installation
• Ongoing maintenance

Call 505-316-4231 for a free air quality assessment!

Breathe easier in your Santa Fe home!