Should I Install Indoor Air Quality Products at the Same Time as My HVAC System?

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IAQ products can transform your home’s health and make it a more welcoming place. Here’s why to consider installing them at the same time as your HVAC system.

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Are you upgrading your home’s AC or heating system and curious about how HVAC accessories can make your home a healthier place to live? Did you know that indoor pollutants, called volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can silently damage our long-term health?

When upgrading or installing a new air conditioning or heating system, you may be left debating whether to invest in indoor air quality (IAQ) products simultaneously. After all, comfort isn’t just about keeping cool; it’s also about the quality of the air you breathe.

With increasing awareness about how indoor pollution and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) impact our long-term health, more homeowners are installing IAQ products as part of their HVAC upgrades.

So, the question arises: should I install IAQ products at the same time as my HVAC system? These appliances can significantly improve the health of your home, however, there are other aspects of this decision to consider, including your budget, when looking at these options.

The Mattioni team believes in a holistic approach to IAQ improvement; one that includes an air purifier, air scrubber, and an energy recovery ventilation system We also advocate for dehumidifiers and humidifiers to keep your home’s humidity between 40%-60%. We also know that there are more factors in play.

This question is fundamental to the comfort and health of your home but also involves financial considerations. In this article, we’ll look at all considerations in play when evaluating whether or not to install IAQ products along with your air conditioner.

Understanding How Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Products Enhance Your Home

Indoor air quality products encompass a variety of devices designed to improve the air you breathe inside your home. Each of the following appliances addresses air quality through different processes:

– Air Purifier: Extra housing for an industry-leading air filtration system that removes VOCs and pollutants such as dust, pollen, pet dander, and more.

– Energy Recovery Ventilation Systems (ERVs): A system that efficiently provides a continuous supply of fresh air to your home through your ductwork.

– Air Scrubbers: A ducted-in whole-house appliance that uses UV-light and ionization to attack bacteria and viruses within the HVAC system microscopically.

– Humidifiers: A ducted-in whole-house appliance that maintains optimal humidity levels to prevent dry air in the winter.

– Dehumidifiers: A ducted-in whole-house appliance that reduces excess moisture, preventing uncomfortable summer conditions and mitigating mold growth.

Collectively, these devices contribute to a healthier and more welcoming indoor environment. Air purifiers, air scrubbers, and ERVS each support one another with different aspects of eliminating VOCs to improve your indoor air quality. Meanwhile, humidifiers and dehumidifiers keep your home comfortable regardless of the weather.

Benefits of Installing IAQ Systems at the Same Time as Your New AC Unit

1. Cost Efficiency

Combining the installation of IAQ products with your HVAC system can lead to significant cost savings. When bundled, installation fees will be lower than if you were to install them separately.

Additionally, purchasing these products as part of a package deal might qualify you for discounts or promotions. If you’re considering installing an IAQ product in the future, doing so simultaneously to your air conditioner, furnace or boiler will save you money.

2. Integrated Systems

Installing ducted-in, whole-house IAQ products with your new heating or air conditioning system ensures that they work seamlessly together.

For instance, a ventilation system can be calibrated to work in harmony with your AC, optimizing both air flow and quality. This integrated approach can enhance the overall efficiency of your home’s heating and cooling system.

Installing IAQ products at this time will get the most out of your investment in HVAC equipment, as they also promote healthy, long-lasting heating and cooling systems.

3. Enhanced Comfort

Air conditioners, furnaces, and boilers primarily focus on cooling or heating your home, and have very little impact on humidity or air quality. By adding IAQ products, you can achieve a more comprehensive comfort solution.

A well-maintained humidity level, for example, can make a cool room feel even more comfortable, while air purifiers and air scrubbers ensure that the air is not only cool but also clean. Air conditioning equipment that’s supported with IAQ products makes for a more welcoming home environment.

4. Health Benefits

Indoor air quality has a direct impact on the health of you and your family. Poor air quality can exacerbate allergies, asthma, and other respiratory conditions.

Installing IAQ products alongside your AC, furnace or boiler will significantly reduce airborne contaminants and allergens, promoting better long-term health for you and your family.

The Potential Drawbacks of Installing IAQ Systems at the Same Time as Your New AC Unit

5. Increased Upfront Costs

The primary drawback of simultaneous installation is the higher initial investment. While it’s cost-effective in the long run, the upfront price can be substantial.

Homeowners need to consider their budget and financing options that can be taken advantage of, including 12-month interest-free payment plans.

6. Overcomplication of Installation

Introducing multiple systems at once can complicate the installation process for some service providers. Ensure you hire a reputable HVAC installation company with experience integrating IAQ products with HVAC systems to avoid potential issues.

Is Installing Indoor Air Quality Products Simultaneous to New HVAC Equipment for Me?

When deciding whether to install IAQ products with your new air conditioner, consider the following factors:

– Current Air Quality: Assess the current indoor air quality in your home. If you already experience issues like asthma, allergies, or musty odors then investing in IAQ products is likely worthwhile.

– Budget: Evaluate your financial situation. While the upfront costs are higher, the long-term benefits in terms of health and efficiency may outweigh these initial expenses.

– Future Plans: Think about your long-term plans for the home. If you plan to stay for many years, the investment in IAQ products will pay off over time. If you plan on moving in the next year then this investment likely isn’t for you.

Making the Call to Install IAQ Products or Not

Choosing whether or not to install indoor air quality products at the same time as your AC unit, furnace or boiler is a decision that balances immediate costs and long-term benefits.

Integrating these systems improves comfort, better health, and enhances efficiency. By considering your current air quality, budget, and future plans, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs and ensures a healthier, more comfortable living environment.

The team of HVAC professionals at Mattioni is here to answer any questions about indoor air quality and how to evaluate if air cleaning products are right for your home.

To learn more about AC and IAQ equipment installations, explore our learning center, call our friendly team at
(610) 400-8510, or schedule a consultation online today.