Indoor Air Quality

Understanding Indoor Air Quality in Your Home

Indoor air quality directly impacts your health, comfort, and overall well-being. At Harley's Heating and Air Conditioning, we understand that the air you breathe inside your home can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air, according to Environmental Protection Agency studies. Since most people spend approximately 90% of their time indoors, ensuring clean, healthy air circulation becomes essential for maintaining a comfortable living environment.

Our NATE-certified technicians regularly encounter homes where poor indoor air quality contributes to various health issues, including allergies, asthma, headaches, and fatigue. Since 1970, when our family-owned business first opened its doors, we’ve witnessed significant advances in air quality technology and solutions. Today’s sophisticated systems can detect and eliminate pollutants that were once impossible to address, providing homeowners in Lincoln, NE with cleaner, healthier indoor environments.

Common Indoor Air Pollutants and Their Sources

Indoor air contamination comes from numerous sources that many homeowners overlook. Dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and mold spores represent biological contaminants that circulate through your HVAC system daily. Chemical pollutants from household cleaning products, paint, furniture, and building materials release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into your breathing space. Additionally, combustion byproducts from gas stoves, fireplaces, and water heaters can introduce carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide into your home’s atmosphere.

We frequently discover that inadequate ventilation exacerbates these pollution problems. Modern homes built for energy efficiency often trap contaminants inside, creating a sealed environment where pollutants accumulate over time. Our technicians assess ventilation systems to ensure proper air exchange rates while maintaining energy efficiency. Through comprehensive testing and analysis, we identify specific pollutants affecting your home and develop customized solutions addressing each contamination source.

Advanced Filtration and Purification Technologies

Today’s air filtration technologies offer remarkable improvements over traditional fiberglass filters. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including most allergens and microscopic pollutants. We install whole-house filtration systems that integrate seamlessly with existing HVAC equipment, providing continuous air cleaning throughout every room.

Beyond mechanical filtration, we offer advanced purification technologies including ultraviolet (UV) light systems that neutralize bacteria, viruses, and mold spores. These germicidal lights install directly within your ductwork, destroying microorganisms before they circulate through your home. Electronic air cleaners use electrostatic precipitation to capture particles too small for conventional filters, while activated carbon filters absorb odors and chemical vapors. Our experienced team evaluates your specific air quality concerns and recommends the most effective combination of technologies for your situation.

Humidity Control and Its Impact on Air Quality

Proper humidity levels play a crucial role in maintaining healthy indoor air. When humidity drops below 30%, dry air can irritate respiratory passages, increase static electricity, and damage wood furniture and flooring. Conversely, humidity above 60% creates ideal conditions for mold growth, dust mite proliferation, and structural damage. We install whole-house humidification and dehumidification systems that maintain optimal humidity levels between 30% and 50% year-round.

Our humidity control solutions integrate with your existing HVAC system, automatically adjusting moisture levels based on outdoor conditions and indoor requirements. These systems prevent condensation on windows, reduce allergen levels, and create a more comfortable environment while protecting your home’s structure and furnishings. For the last 50 years, we’ve helped homeowners throughout Lincoln, NE & the surrounding areas achieve perfect humidity balance, improving both air quality and comfort.

Professional Indoor Air Quality Assessment Services

Comprehensive air quality testing forms the foundation of effective improvement strategies. Our certified technicians use professional-grade equipment to measure particulate levels, identify specific allergens, detect chemical pollutants, and assess ventilation effectiveness. We provide detailed reports explaining our findings and recommending targeted solutions based on your family’s specific needs and sensitivities.

• Particulate counting: Measures airborne particle concentrations in various size ranges
• VOC testing: Identifies harmful chemical compounds from household sources
• Allergen sampling: Detects specific triggers like pet dander, dust mites, and pollen
• Ventilation assessment: Evaluates air exchange rates and distribution patterns
• Humidity monitoring: Records moisture levels throughout different areas of your home

Following assessment, we develop customized improvement plans addressing identified issues while considering your budget and priorities. Our availability seven days a week with no overtime fees ensures prompt response when air quality concerns arise unexpectedly.