health airadvice for your homescented products and air fresheners, personal care products, household...
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Monitor: 32038 Report ID: 22276610/06/15 11:40 PM
This report displays our findings about the air quality in your home, and offers recommendations to help you makeinformed decisions about your family's health, comfort and safety. If you have additional questions, please visitwww.airadviceforhomes.com.
Action Recommended
Particles
31.1 ug/m3
Health Concerns Particles are generally a cause for concern when daily average levels are above 10 ug/m3.Particles are known to trigger asthma and allergy symptoms. At levels above 35 ug/m3, they can harm normallyhealthy adults by causing emphysema and diminished lung capacity. Children, the elderly, and pregnant women aremore susceptible.a
What We Found In Your Home Particle levels were between 11-35 ug/m3.
Potential Causes Particles can build up to unhealthy levels due to three primary causes:Activities in the homePresence of excessive particulate sourcesHeating and cooling system issues
Recommended ActionsReplace filters or upgrade filtration systemInspect and clean duct workUse the exhaust fan during cookingInstall UV light in cooling coil to prevent mold
No Action Necessary
TVOC
231 ug/m3
Health Concerns Chemical pollutants are generally a cause for concern when average levels are above 500ug/m3 (micrograms per cubic meter of air). Chemical pollutants are known to trigger asthma and allergy symptoms. Atmoderate levels, eyes and nasal passages can be irritated. Some people can experience nausea and headaches. Atvery high levels, they can even affect normally healthy adults by overworking the liver and kidneys. Children, theelderly, and pregnant women are more susceptible.b
What We Found In Your Home Chemical pollutant levels were below 500 ug/m3.
Potential Causes Levels can build up in your home's air due to usage of chemical products and heating/coolingsystem issues:
Sources: Off-gassing from building materials, carpeting, furniture and other synthetic materials, fuel fumes,scented products and air fresheners, personal care products, household products such as paint, glue, andplasticsPossible heating & cooling issues: Lack of fresh air introduced into home (either inadequate mechanicalventilation or none present), no chemical pollutant removal equipment
Recommended ActionsMinimize use of VOC sources such as air fresheners, open cleaning fluids, or candles
Action Recommended
CO2
986 ppm
Health Concerns Carbon dioxide (CO2) levels above 750 ppm (parts per million) are a cause for concern. Athigher levels, CO2 inside a home can contribute to what the EPA terms "sick building syndrome," which leads tofatigue, headache, breathing difficulties, nausea, strained eyes and itchy skin. At even higher levels, CO2 can causeasphyxiation as it replaces oxygen in the blood. CO2 poisoning, however, is very rare. The U.S. EPA recommends amaximum concentration of CO2 of 1000 ppm (0.1%) for continuous exposure.c
What We Found In Your Home Carbon dioxide levels were between 751-999 ppm.
Potential Causes Elevated carbon dioxide levels can occur in the homedue to source causes, home heating &cooling system issues, or both:
Sources: 'Tight' (well weatherized and energy-efficient) home construction without adequate ventilation,common human & household activity (breathing, and burning candles, gas, wood, or other combustion)Possible heating & cooling issues: Lack of supplied fresh air (no ventilation), malfunctioning ventilation,ventilation shut off by occupant, HVAC equipment needs repair or service
Recommended ActionsInstall an energy efficient ventilation device, such as a heat or energy recovery ventilator (ERV or HVR)Use the exhaust fan during cookingInspect combustion sources, such as fireplaces, gas heaters, or gas stoves, for proper ventilation
AirAdvice for Your Home
HEALTHParticles
Chemicals
Carbon Dioxide
a. Source: American Lung Association, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); Indoor Air Quality Association.b. Sources: European Union (EU); Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED); Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).c. Source: EPA, Minnesota Dept of Health.
No Action Necessary
Temperature
76.8 degrees F
Comfort Concerns Comfortable temperatures fall within the range of 68 and 75 degrees F. In additiontemperatures are most comfortable when steady, with fluctuations less than 1-1/2 degrees. Ideally, temperatureshould be constant between all areas of the home. People experience a chilling or 'goose bump' sensation whentemperatures are uneven and when air blows quickly across the surface of the skin.a
What We Found In Your Home The temperature level was inside the normal range.
Potential Causes Fluctuating and/or low and high temperatures can occur due to structural causes and/or homeheating & cooling system issues:
Structural causes: Poor insulation, inadequate weatherization (for example, poorly sealed windows and doorscreate drafts)Possible heating and cooling issues: Thermostat poorly located (in an area where air supply falsely influencesreadings), uneven heating or cooling from room to room due to imbalanced ductwork or inadequate or poorlysized equipment
Recommended ActionsUpgrade to programmable thermostat for energy efficency
No Action Necessary
RH
48.4 %
Comfort Concerns According to the ALA the relative humidity should be 50 %, with levels in the 40-50 % rangeoffering the most comfort possible. The amount of moisture in the air influences both health and comfort. When air istoo dry in the winter, people typically feel colder. Also, respiratory passages can become irritated and prone toinfection.b
What We Found In Your Home The relative humidity levels were inside the normal range.
Potential Causes Fluctuating and/or low and high relative humidity can occur due to structural causes and/orhome heating & cooling system issues:
Structural causes: Standing water in basement or other areas, leaky pipes/faucets, inadequate ventilation inwinter (causes moisture build-up inside), and home is under "negative pressure" (pulls dry or moist air in fromoutside)Possible heating & cooling system issues: no or inadequate humidification or ventilation, improperly sizedcooling system (prevents dehumidification), HVAC equipment needs repair (condensate drain or coilmalfunctioning)
Recommended ActionsOperate bathroom fansUse the exhaust fan during cooking
No Action Necessary
CO
1.2 ppm
Safety Concerns Carbon monoxide is a cause for concern when average levels are 6 ppm or higher. Whenlevels are above 25 ppm, immediate action should be taken. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, poisonous gasproduced by combustion. When people are exposed to relatively low levels, it can cause headaches and nausea. Atrelatively high levels it can cause memory problems and ultimately death.c
What We Found In Your Home Carbon monoxide levels were below 6 ppm.
Potential Causes Elevated carbon monoxide can occur due to source causes, home heating & cooling systemissues, or both:
Sources: Fireplaces, cooking, combustion appliances (water heater, gas dryer, stove), vehicles running inattached garagePossible heating & cooling system issues: Cracked heat exchanger on furnace, leaking chimney or vent,inadequate exhausting of a combustion appliance (water heater, gas dryer, stove)
Recommended ActionsInstall or check CO alarm
COMFORTTemperature
Relative Humidity
SAFETYCarbon Monoxide
a. Source: American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).b. Source: American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers; Health Canada; Washington Department of Health.c. Source: US Environmental Protection Agency; World Health Organization (WHO); Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA).
Indoor Air Quality Recommendations
MERV 15
MERV 13
Preferred™ Air PurifierPerfect Air™ Purifier EZ Flex Cabinet Air Filter
• This whole home purification system both captures and kills airborne viruses, bacteria, mold spores, and allergens
• Captures 95% of particles .30 to 1.0 microns in size
• 99% germicidal effectiveness with-in 24 hours against selected viruses, bacteria, and fungi
• Virtually no cleaning required—simply change purifier cartridge periodically
• Enhances HVAC equipment operation
• Patented Captures and Kills™ technology
• Captures 75% of particles .30 to 1.0 microns in size
• 96% germicidal effectiveness with in 24 hours against selected viruses, bacteria, and fungi
• Narrow cabinet design provides greater installation flexibility
• Virtually no cleaning required—simply change purifier cartridge periodically
• Enhances HVAC equipment operation
• Captures up to 65% of particles 1.0 to 3.0 microns in size
• Deep pleated filters offer high dust holding capacity, extending the time between filter changes
• Easy filter replacement
• Enhances HVAC equipment operation
About Particle Allergens
What are they?Dust, pet dander, pollen, smoke, bacteria, viruses, mold spores, and other particle allergens too small to see.
Why should I be concerned?Particle allergens are known to trigger and worsen asthma and allergy symptoms. Children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with chronic respiratory issues can be especially susceptible.
They also collect in your heating and cooling system, reducing airflow and adding stress—a common cause for efficiency loss and premature failure.
Where do they come from?Pets, plants, smoke, dirt on shoes, and many common household activities, including cooking and cleaning.
How do I control them?We recommend the installation of a high efficiency whole home air purifier. Continuously running the fan on your heating and cooling equipment is also recommended only with Bryant systems including the Perfect Humidity System® and SmartEvap™ technology.
To Reduce Particle Allergens
MERV 10
Indoor Air Quality RecommendationsTo Reduce Stale Air and Carbon Dioxide
• Prefilters air for reduced indoor air pollutants
• Energy-saving defrost cycle
• Crossflow configuration ensures there is no mixing of stale, outgoing, and fresh, incoming air
• Acoustical design
• No tools maintenance
• Digital controller provides the user with adjustable flexibility to manage air
• Limits fresh air intake during extreme temperature conditions and humidity to maintain comfort levels
• Provides an affordable price point for consumers living in states requiring mechanical ventilation as part of the building code
• 5-year parts limited warranty
• Mitigates humidity from incoming fresh air
• Prefilters air for reduced indoor air pollutants
• Crossflow configuration ensures there is no mixing of stale, outgoing and fresh, incoming air
• Automatic defrost cycles of operation below 23ºF
• Acoustically engineered for quiet operation
About Carbon Dioxide
What is it and where does it come from?Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a naturally occurring gas. People and pets expel air rich in carbon dioxide with each breathe. Combustion — open flames, from sources such as stoves, candles, furnaces, and fireplaces — also produce carbon dioxide.
Why should I be concerned?In today’s “tight” and energy-efficient homes and businesses, carbon dioxide levels can quickly climb above 1,000 ppm. At these elevated levels, air becomes stale and uncomfortable. Stale air can lead to drowsiness, weariness, and affect concentration.
How can I reduce carbon dioxide build-up?Controlled ventilation is key. Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRV) are the most efficient and effective way to ventilate. A ventilation control system will improve ventilation by delivering the right quantity and quality of outdoor air.
HRV Up to +100 CFMHRV Up to +250 CFM Fresh Air Vent Up to +100 CFM
Ventilation Reference Table Suggested Additional CFM
Des
ired
Indo
or C
O2 L
evel
Approximate Ventilation Required to AchieveDesired CO2 Levels
Number of People Living in the Home
2
600
750
1000 36 54 72 90 108
62 93 124 155 186
110 165 220 275 330
3 4 5 6
Indoor Air Quality RecommendationsFor Every Home
UV Lights
Mold and bacteria can grow on the surface of your cooling coil. Left unchecked, buildup of these contaminants can reduce system efficiency and release potentially harmful pollutants such as mold spores and unpleasant odors into the air you breathe.
Conventional methods for cleaning your indoor cooling coil involve chemical or steam cleaning methods that can be costly and time consuming. The Bryant UV Light delivers the benefit of a cleaner, more energy efficient comfort system and years of lasting reliability with an excellent 5-year limited product warranty.
• Keeps evaporator coil clean of growing mold and bacteria
• A build-up of contaminants on the indoor portion of your cooling system just 0.002” thick can reduce air flow by 9%
• Single and double lamp models are available
• No cleaning required — only replace once a year
• Helps to improve system efficiency
Recommendations for Annual Equipment Service:
Show your heating & cooling system some love by having an annual maintenance agreement in place. Maintaining a heating and cooling system ensures that you get the most out of your system’s efficiency and its ability to provide you comfort. It’s a lot like owning a car—you wouldn’t dare drive a car all year long without changing its oil, checking fluid levels, adjusting tire pressure, and more. The same goes for a heating and cooling system. All moving parts should be checked and cleaned and refrigerant amounts should be gauged and adjusted as needed.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Saftey Guideline
According to ASHRAE, the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers, “a carbon monoxide alarm shall be installed in each dwelling unit in accordance with [National Fire Protection Association] 720, Standard Installation of Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detection and Warning Equipment, and shall be consistent with requirements of applicable laws, codes, and standards (ASHRAE 62.2-2013, section 9.9).”
CO Alarm• Detects and stores CO levels as low as
11 and high as 999 parts per million• Uses highly sensitive, CO specific
electrochemical sensor• Monitors CO levels, updating every
15 seconds• Lithium ion battery does not
require replacement• Peak level button displays the highest
CO level recorded since the alarm was last reset or unplugged