Indoor Air Quality Archives - Dogtown Heating, Air & Plumbing

Signs of Poor Indoor Air Quality During Winter

February 5, 2026

Poor indoor air quality is an issue that affects many Urbana, IL homes and can raise numerous concerns. Air quality tends to be worse in winter, when homes are closed and the heat is running. By knowing what signs to watch for and the ways that you can improve your home’s indoor air quality, you can help keep your family healthier and ensure optimal comfort. Frequent Illness or Allergy Symptoms Illnesses like cold and flu are more prevalent during the winter. They can cause a wide range of symptoms, including coughing, sneezing, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and

Steam vs. Evaporative Humidifiers: Which Is Better for Indoor Air Quality?

April 2, 2025

Keeping your home’s indoor humidity at proper levels is crucial to the health and comfort of everyone under your roof. It can also affect the longevity of parts of your home and household items. When adding moisture to otherwise dry indoor air, you can use a steam humidifier or an evaporative model. Each increases humidity levels in your home, but they operate differently and offer unique pros and cons. Knowing the differences makes it easier to pick the best kind for your home and needs. About Steam Humidifiers Steam humidifiers are also called warm mist humidifiers. They produce

MERV vs. HEPA vs. Activated Carbon: Choosing the Right Air Filtration for Your Home

January 9, 2025

Indoor air pollution is a top environmental health concern for homeowners in Urbana, IL. Whole-house air filtration is often the most effective way to eliminate pollution in the home. Let’s explore three main types of filtrations that you’ll encounter. Air Filtration There are many different approaches to air filtration. The two we’ll focus on here are mechanical filtration, such as MERV and HEPA filters. We’ll also consider absorbent filtration, such as activated carbon. Many conventional air purifiers combine mechanical and absorbent filtration. Mechanical Air Filtration Pleated filters made with paper or

How to Prevent Mold Growth in Your HVAC System

May 15, 2024

Mold growth in your HVAC system can not only affect the efficiency of your heating and cooling, but it can also pose serious health risks to you and your family. Prevention is key when it comes to dealing with mold in your HVAC system. Here are some effective tips to help you prevent mold growth: 1. Change Your Air Filters Regularly One of the simplest ways to prevent mold growth in your HVAC system is by regularly changing your air filters. Clogged or dirty filters can trap moisture and provide a breeding ground for mold. Check

How to Choose the Right Air Filter for Your HVAC System

March 4, 2024

When it comes to keeping your HVAC system running smoothly, choosing the right air filter is crucial. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to figure out which one is best for your home or business. Don’t worry, though—we’re here to help make the decision easier for you. Understanding MERV Ratings One of the first things you’ll come across when shopping for air filters is the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating. This rating system measures how effectively the filter removes particles from the air. Filters with higher MERV ratings can capture smaller particles,

Which Is Better for My Home: An Air Purifier or Dehumidifier?

February 17, 2022

Improving the air quality in your home can provide lasting benefits. You and your family will be able to breathe easier with less sneezing, coughing, and discomfort. Air purifiers and dehumidifiers are two appliances that work to improve your home’s safety. Learn which appliance is the best choice for your family. Dehumidifier A dehumidifier works to decrease the humidity level in the home. Too much moisture in the air can lead to unpleasant mold odors and potential health risks. If the air in your home is feeling thicker or warmer than usual, consider testing for humidity.

How UV Lights Can Boost Your Indoor Air

June 16, 2020

Today, perhaps more than ever, you are conscious of the viruses and bacteria in the air in your home. You want to maintain a healthy environment in your house for your family and guests. The use of ultraviolet lighting may just be one of the foot soldiers you need to keep the air in your residence as healthy as possible. This short-wavelength light can damage the genetic material in molds, bacteria, and viruses. Sometimes, this kills the organism, whereas other times, the organism is just rendered unable to reproduce, causing it to die out. UV Lighting Near

The Best Air Purifiers For Germs

April 17, 2020

Most purifiers can combat air pollution effectively. But, air pollution isn’t just smoke and some strange odors. The mold spores, pet dander, pollen, dust mites, and germs in your indoor environment require specialized air filters for effective removal. Air purifiers fitted with HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are the most efficient at getting these harmful particles out of your indoor air. These filters force air through a fine mesh, trapping and killing any present germs. Here are three great air purifiers to fight off germs. Alen Paralda Air Purifier Incorporating the HEPA-Silver threads,

Tips for Maintaining Your Winter Indoor Air

November 12, 2019

When the cold winter winds blow, Illinois homeowners try to seal up their houses as much as possible. This will help the furnace work in the most efficient way. However, in an effort to keep things warm and cozy, you may be lowering the quality of your indoor air. Consequences of Poor Indoor Air Quality When a house is sealed tight, it slows down the natural exchange of stale indoor air and fresh outdoor air. All sorts of irritants like pet dander and volatile organic compounds can get into your air supply.