Improving Indoor Air Quality with Advanced HVAC Filters

Most homeowners give little thought to their indoor air quality—that is, until they’re stuck with mysterious odors that linger on, even after a thorough cleaning. In other cases, you may not even be able to detect indoor air quality issues caused by microscopic particles like:

• Dust
• Mold
• Pollen
• Pet dander
• And even airborne bacteria

These invisible irritants are more than a health and safety hazard—they’re hard on your HVAC system. The good news? You can improve indoor air quality with advanced HVAC filters and other targeted solutions. Here’s how.

Common Indoor Air Quality Pollutants

The average human spends 90% of their life indoors. This figure becomes alarming when you consider that indoor air can be five times more polluted than outdoor air. The reasons behind this vary. Poor indoor air quality can be caused by:

Poor ventilation: Window technology has come a long way in the last few decades. While tightly-sealed, energy-efficient windows reduce energy bills, they also prevent fresh air from cycling in and out of your home. That reduced ventilation means an uptick in trapped pollutants—something advanced HVAC systems are specifically designed to address.

Dirty ductwork: Over time, dust, dander, and other pollutants can accumulate inside your air ducts. And every time your system kicks on, these particles circulate throughout your home.

Mold and mildew: Humid Georgia summers create the perfect environment for mold and mildew to thrive. Unfortunately, you may be recirculating mold spores throughout your home unless you’re using high-efficiency filters and HVAC air quality testing to monitor your system.

Cooking oils and chemicals: Frying food, burning gas stoves, and using everyday chemical cleaners can all release fine particles and fumes into the air. While generally harmless in small doses, these pollutants can linger—and your HVAC system may end up circulating them over and over again.

The good news? You can reduce the impact by learning how to improve indoor air quality with advanced HVAC filters. Even better, we’re offering a discounted $99 air quality assessment, valid through September 30, 2025!

Types of Advanced HVAC Filters

What’s the difference between a run-of-the-mill fiberglass filter and advanced HVAC filters? The answer requires a basic understanding of the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV), which rates how well a filter captures airborne particles on a scale of 1-20.

In simple terms, the lower the MERV rating, the less effective the filter.

Fiberglass Filters (MERV 1-4)

These are generally the cheapest filters. While they provide basic protection by trapping large debris like lint and dust, small particles like pollen and mold still pass through.

Pleated Filters (MERV 5-13)

Made from folded fabric or paper, pleated filters will trap small particles like dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander. If you have allergies or respiratory issues, we recommend MERV 11-13-rated advanced air filters.

Electrostatic Filters (MERV 8-15)

These advanced HVAC filters use static electricity to attract and trap particles. They can be disposable or washable. However, some filters become less effective over time.

HEPA Advanced HVAC Filters (MERV 17-20)

These filters capture 99% of particles, including bacteria and smoke. However, these advanced HVAC filters are only compatible with modified systems or air purification systems.

Our Air Quality Solutions

At Air Control, we take your respiratory health seriously. In addition to helping you identify a compatible air filter, we offer additional services that provide more robust protection, including:

• System Maintenance: A well-maintained system doesn’t just run more efficiently, cost less to operate, and last longer—it also keeps your indoor environment fresher, cleaner, and healthier. We offer service packages that start as low as $15/month and include two tune-ups.
• Air Purifiers: Looking for serious air quality protection? Our air purification systems combine the power of germicidal UV light, photocatalytic oxidation, and ionization to break down and kill airborne microbes.
• Humidifiers & Dehumidifiers: Too much or too little humidity doesn’t just make your indoor space uncomfortable—it encourages mold, mildew, and dust mites. Our whole-home systems balance your air for maximum comfort and safety.
• Duct Cleaning: If your ductwork hasn’t been cleaned in years, chances are it’s recirculating dust, dander, mold spores, and other pollutants every time the system runs. Our professional duct cleaning removes built-up debris and improves both air quality and system performance.

Breathe Easy: Air Control Is Here!

Ready for a fresh breath of air? We’ll make it happen. Whether you need maintenance or want to explore duct cleaning or air quality systems, we’re here to help. Contact us today!