Water & Air – Filter Systems News

Sniffle, sniffle. If you couldn’t tell from my virtual stuffy nose, Friday is the first day of fall, meaning the beginning of a tough allergy season. As we’ve mentioned before, this season promises to be one of the worst allergy seasons yet . If you happen to live in a city with a high pollen count, or are very susceptible to allergens, be sure to have the correct protection you need for this upcoming fall season.

Humidifier systems will help significantly as they moisturize the dry air in your home. Dry air can cause sinus infections, colds, scratchy throats and even nose bleeds.  Humidified air will prevent cold viruses from thriving, as they prefer dry conditions. However, a humidifiers humid, wet air can also add bacteria and mold to your home if not maintained properly. Here are some of the most common humidifier filters, pads and wicks that will keep your humidifier running smoothly, and keep you out of the doctor and out playing in the cool fall air!

Humidifier Filters: Humidifier filters will keep your humidifier running at its best, and keep it free from mold and bacterial residue. Each humidifier, regardless of size, uses a filter to keep particles and contaminants inside of the humidifier and out of the air that you breathe. For example, the Universal Bemis West Bend 6” Humidifier Filter works with a 6” drum type humidifier.

The Holmes HWF75 is a humidifier filter that features the use of Arm and Hammer baking soda to naturally deodorize the air. This filter works with your Holmes and White Westinghouse model humidifier.

Humidifier Wick Filters:  Two pack humidifier wick filters will help you keep your humidifier running correctly. Many of these filters, such as the Vornado MD1-0002 come treated with an antimicrobial treatment that will prevent the growth of mold, fungus and bacteria.

Humidifier Cleaner:  Humidifier cleaner will help prevent the build-up of calcium and lime scale in your humidifiers tank. Humidiclean Humidifier Cleaner and Descaler will increase the life of your humidifier and can be used on both humidifiers and vaporizers.  The Holmes Bacteriostat Cleaner is made for your Cool Mist Humidifier and uses chlorides to clean your humidifier.

Carbon Pre-Filters:  Carbon pre-filters work with those air purifiers that use a three step filtration system within the cleaner. These filters will protect your HEPA filter from exposure to large air particles that will clog up the filter and humidifier.

These products will help your humidifier run at its best, keeping you and your house healthy. If you want to find the correct humidifier accessory for you, simply go to www.filtersfast.com and type in the filter or humidifier you use into the search bar!

Allergens

When you hear about allergies, you probably think about pollen and dust. But do cockroaches ever come to mind? They might, considering they can trigger asthma and allergies for some people. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America reports that “cockroach allergy was first reported in 1943, when skin rashes appeared immediately after the insects crawled over patients’ skin. Skin tests first confirmed patients had cockroach allergy in 1959.”

Scientists discovered in the 1970s that cockroach allergens can trigger scratchy throat, itchy eyes, and asthma attacks in those allergic to them. These acute attacks could last up to several hours. Research has shown that “the frequent hospital admissions of inner-city children with asthma often is directly related to their contact with cockroach allergens—the substances that cause allergies. From 23 percent to 60 percent of urban residents with asthma are sensitive to the cockroach allergen.”

Scientists have theorized that cockroach allergens are affecting children so much nowadays because they spend more time indoors, where the allergens are typically found. In addition, socioeconomic factors play a large role because residents of low-income housing are affected the most.

The AAFA suggests that “cockroach [allergies] should be suspected, though, when allergy symptoms—stuffy nose, inflamed eyes or ears, skin rash or bronchial asthma—persist year round.” If cockroach allergens are discovered in your home, the best option is to call pest control experts or to use non-chemical traps to rid your home of roaches. Also, quickly remove trash and garbage, and use antihistamines, decongestants, and anti-inflammatory medications to control nasal and sinus symptoms.

Politicians and lay people alike both talk and argue about the effects of the environment on Americans. Clean air and clean living have become trendy issues in the past decade. Green homes, recycling, and hybrid cars are just a few of the ways that people can help make our air a little bit cleaner. With harsh effects of polluted air such asthma and other respiratory problems, it is now more important than ever to protect yourself against the dangerous effects of polluted air. One organization, the Clean Air Task Force, is doing just that.

The Clean Air Task Force is based out of Boston and was formed in 1996. Their primary goal is outlined as such: “To enact federal policy to reduce the pollutants from America’s coal-fired power plants that cause respiratory death and disease, smog, acid rain, and haze.” This group of researchers, advocates, and private sector contributors are working towards getting the American people to truly understand the negative health effects that coal and diesel emissions have.

For example, diesel trucks can pose a serious health risk to pedestrians as it is emitted at ground level. As the CATF explained, “Diesel exhaust is comprised of microscopic carbon soot particles that act to absorb metals and other toxic substances in the exhaust. When inhaled by humans, these tiny, toxic-laden particles cross the blood barrier from lungs into the bloodstream, delivering the toxics to internal organs and leading to inflammation and cardiovascular and respiratory diseases…”

Diesel exhaust leads to approximately 400,000 asthma attacks a year. To get an idea of how much diesel exhaust is released by a local school bus, check out these videos. The first shows an ordinary school bus, while the second is fitted with a diesel filter.

The diesel filter makes a huge difference in the amount of emissions released into the air. The same goes for your indoor air quality. As the CATF has shown us, air pollution is a serious problem and has significant health effects on Americans today. If you are concerned about pollutants and allergens in your home, it is important to equip your home with the proper filters. It is paramount that you change your HVAC filter regularly, and a higher MERV rating, the better. These filters will help to remove particles and mold spores, keeping them out of the air you breathe.

Another way to protect the air you breathe inside your home is to use an air purifier. These will assist in the removal of bacteria and germs that are found in your home, protecting you and your family from sickness. While solving the world’s pollution problems may be very far off, cleaning the air in your home is an inexpensive way for you and your family to stay healthy. While the CATF does their part, it is important that we do ours!

Sick building syndrome or SBS refers to situations where “building occupants experience acute health and comfort effects that appear to be linked to time spent in a building, but no specific illness or cause can be identified,” according to the EPA’s Indoor Air Quality website. This can occur either in a specific room or area, or throughout the building.

Symptoms can include:

• headache
• eye, nose, or throat  irritation
• dry cough
• dry or itchy skin
• dizziness and nausea
• difficulty in concentrating
• fatigue
• sensitivity to odors

Although the cause of the symptoms is usually not known, sufferers usually report feeling better soon after they leave the building. Poor ventilation, as well as heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) not effectively distributing air throughout the building, seems to be a major contributing factor in SBS.

Indoor and outdoor pollution sources can also contribute to SBS. Indoor air pollution sources include:

• adhesives
• carpeting
• upholstery
• manufactured wood products
• copy machines
• pesticides
• cleaning agents

These sources can emit Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) such as formaldehyde.  Tobacco smoke emits high levels of VOCs, as well as other toxic compounds, and breathable particulate matter. The products of combustion, such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and breathable particles come from burning sources like unvented kerosene and gas space heaters, woodstoves, fireplaces and gas stoves.

Outdoor pollution sources such as motor vehicle exhausts, plumbing vents, and bathroom and kitchen exhausts can contribute to indoor air pollution. Also, biological contaminants including bacteria, molds, pollens, and viruses may breed in standing or stagnant water in various locations throughout a building.

Removing or modifying the pollutant source when it is known and controllable is perhaps the best way to resolve an Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) problem. Also increasing ventilation and air distribution can help the problem.  Another method is to use air cleaners. Finally, using furnace or air filters, especially high performance filters that capture smaller, breathable particles is a great way to alleviate SBS.

Cooling Towers Enhance Green Building Technology

The economic benefits of improving indoor air quality may help to reduce the amount of outside air that is used in an air conditioning system. As more businesses incorporate the principles of green building technology, there will be a substantial benefit of increased productivity from temperature control, better ventilation and lighting control, as well as reduced indoor air pollution. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is a globally recognized green building certification system that represents and incorporates emerging green building technologies. In a 2003 report on green building returns on investment, a review of sixty LEED certified buildings revealed an average of 25% to 30% increased energy efficiency.

Cooling towers are devices used to absorb heat from air conditioning systems and evaporate a portion of it in the air. The water is cooled to the wet bulb temperature of the air. Airborne contaminants should be flushed into the system where they will deposit on heat exchange surfaces.  Treatment includes four specific parameters of control that include biological fouling, scale, corrosion and airborne contaminants. Regular filtration of the water in your sump will help to keep your cooling tower clean. Removal of airborne contaminants and byproducts makes treatment very effective. With UV sterilization and filtration, the water is provided with daily cleaning.

Recirculating and cooling towers use deionizing filters such as the Pentek PCF1-10MB Deionization Water Filter and the Pentek PCF1-20MB Deionization Water Filter for their filtration applications. Deionization produces high purity water that is generally similar to distilled water, which is quick and without scale buildup. The HM PH-200 Waterproof pH Meter is a highly accurate digital pH and temperature meter that is ideal for testing boilers and cooling tower applications.

Cooling towers filter airborne contaminants that enter the system. High volumes of dirty ambient air pass through the tower and most of the airborne pollutants will end up in the basin of the cooling tower. Chemical residue, algae and calcium carbonate scale buildup can result from circulation water. The make-up of the water could also contribute to the buildup of contaminants. Cleanliness is the key to control the problems created from airborne pollutants. The filtration in an open cooling tower is necessary in many cases and highly recommended.

As open water continuously cascades in a cooling tower, it always picks up airborne contaminants. These materials can seep into the sump of the cooling tower, flow downstream into the system, and then clog heat exchangers, condenser tube bundles and other very important equipment. This will decrease operating efficiency, shorten the lifespan of equipment, increase water treatment costs, as well as the potential for downtime with cleaning and repairing.

The green building certification system of LEED provides third party verification that a building or community is designed and built using strategies to improve performance in metrics. Such metrics include energy savings, carbon dioxide emissions reduction, water efficiency, improved indoor environmental quality and stewardship of resources as it relates to the sensitivity of their impacts.

Staying indoors during allergy season may seem like a good strategy when you have allergies, but indoor air can be just as irritating to allergies. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America’s website, “dust mites, animal dander and even cockroaches can cause problems indoors.”

Dust mites are a chief culprit for allergy sufferers, affecting up to 8 out of 10 Americans. The best way to control dust mites is to minimize their effect  by keeping all surfaces in the home clean, and by minimizing clutter. The AAFA recommends eliminating carpet altogether, or at a bare minimum to use only washable throw rugs or a low-piled carpet. The AAFA goes on to say that:

The single most important method is to put zippered allergen impermeable or plastic covers on all pillows, mattresses and box springs. Encasing mattresses works better than air cleaners to reduce allergy symptoms. Every week, wash bedding, uncovered pillows and stuffed toys in hot water (130 degree F.) to kill mites.

Animal dander is another culprit, impacting up to 6 out 10 people in the U.S. Doctors recommend not having pets if you are allergic to pet dander. If you must have a pet, first take a break from the animal, either by vacation, or keeping the pet out of the house for at least two months, since pet dander can linger in homes that long. The AAFA recommends slowly introducing the pet back into the home, and seeing if symptoms are attributable to the pet. If so, they advise carefully considering if the pet is worth the discomfort. They also recommend keeping the pet out of your bedroom, and perhaps choosing a pet without fur or feathers.

By vacuuming once or twice a week using a HEPA filter or double-bagged vacuum, some allergens can be controlled. Also cleaning dust with a damp cloth is another good method for keeping irritating particles at a minimum in the home.

Keeping moisture out of the home wherever possible can help control mold, which is another offending allergen. Also keeping only a few house plants and using a dehumidifier will help as well.

Cockroach debris is another culprit that reduces indoor air quality. Following recommended methods for controlling cockroaches can limit the effects of their debris.

Finally, running air conditioning in warm weather, recycling the indoor air, goes a long way to control outside allergens from entering the home. Window unit filters should be changed often. Also, air purifiers and cleaners can help to keep allergens at a minimum.

In the sweltering heat of the summer you may have noticed the contrast between the high temperatures outside and the frigid indoor temperatures of certain buildings. In the New York Times‘ Sunday Review, Elisabeth Rosenthal noted this common disparity, pointing out how she often needs to wear a sweatshirt indoors when the weather outside is close to 100 degrees.

The recommended setting for a thermostat during the summer is 78 degrees, which helps conserve energy costs and fights against increasing greenhouse gas emissions. However, many homes and businesses set their thermostats to temperatures in the low 70s or high 60s. Many are aware of this trend, which explains why some will go to a movie theater simply to escape the heat.

Rosenthal explains that this is likely attributed to the expectation of having “January in July.” Alan Hedge, a Cornell University professor specializing in Design and Environmental Analysis, states that “in the United States there is a strong marketing emphasis on cold. When you get a soda it’s chock full of ice. We serve beer chilled. We make a virtue of freezing things.”

And certainly it’s the people being chilled too. Low indoor temperatures were once a necessary trend, but many wonder if it’s necessary now when air conditioning has become such a staple of residences. Businesses across the world have started to reduce what is known as “over-cooling.” Whether it’s Italian energy company Eni or Japan’s Cool Biz initiative to increase thermostats to around 80 degrees, the issue has been noted and solutions are being offered.

While some may enjoy the cold or not deem it necessary to do anything about over-cooling, Rosenthal argues that the rising cost of energy and the increase of greenhouse gas emissions make this is a necessary endeavor.

Do you suffer from allergies? Like most people, contaminants, mold spores and smells in the air can severely affect your sinuses and ability to breathe easy.  The use of an air purifier can significantly improve the air quality in your home.  With the fall allergy season just around the corner, the 3M Filtrete Ultra Quiet Air Purifier is a simple solution to a very bothersome problem.  For those living in small dorm rooms for this first time, this air purifier will provide you with the   cleanest, freshest air possible.

The 3M Filtrete Ultra Quiet Air Purifier provides high filtration efficiency and low airflow resistance. This air purifier uses electrostatically charged fibers that capture particles as small as 0.1 micron in size, keeping them out of the air you breathe.  The sleek design of this Air Purifier mini tower is perfect for rooms including dorms, office spaces and nurseries. This whisper quiet air purifier won’t wake any sleeping children, or adults!

Try the 3M Filtrete Ultra Quiet Air Purifier, now on special at FiltersFast.com. Normally priced at 55.95, you can order the 3M Filtrete Ultra Quiet Air Purifier, part number, FAP00-RS for only 49.99 until September 2. We will even throw in free shipping! Remember, this is for one week only! If you’re feeling lucky,  head over to our Facebook page and post your favorite school memory, get your friends to like your post, and the entry with the most likes at the end of the week will win a 3M Filtrete Ultra Quiet Air Purifier!

In addition to the 3M Filtrete Ultra Quiet Air Purifier, check out these other great back to school items!

The primary cause of home indoor air quality problems, according to the EPA’s Indoor Air Quality website,  are indoor pollution sources that release harmful gases or particles into the air. Other factors that can contribute to poor indoor air quality are inadequate ventilation, and high temperature and humidity. Sources of indoor air pollution include combustion sources, building materials and furnishings, cabinetry or furniture made of pressed wood products, household cleaning and maintenance products, as well as personal care products, and central heating and cooling systems and humidification devices. Outdoor air pollution sources including radon and pesticides can also contribute to poor indoor air quality.

When there is too little outdoor air entering a home, health and comfort problems can arise from pollutants accumulating. Many houses are designed to prevent air from entering the house, which can cause pollutant levels to rise. This can cause immediate effects such as eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Other immediate effects include symptoms of diseases such as asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and humidifier fever. There are also long term health effects that may occur years after exposure or after long or repeated periods of exposure.  These include respiratory disease, heart disease, and cancer.

One solution to this problem is to install mechanical ventilation devices, such as outdoor-vented fans and also air handling systems. Air handling systems use fans and duct work to remove indoor air and bring in filtered and conditioned outdoor air into the house.  Filters Fast offers an extensive line of air filters to keep the air in your house clean and pure. We also carry many quality air purifiers that circulate and purify indoor air.

"Something told me to change my air filter!"

Do you feel like jumping in a pool of ice water just to cool off from this scorching heat? But then again, what chance does the ice stand before it quickly becomes lukewarm water? It’s not just sweat that we have to be concerned about or how uncomfortable the heat makes us feel, but the health risks that result from the intensity of how hot it is outdoors.

As we watch record-breaking temperatures rise across the country and around the world, we are also witnessing our electricity bills skyrocket from simply trying to stay cool indoors. Outside temperatures are sweltering even before you factor in the heat index. High ozone level warnings and heat strokes are contributing to serious illnesses, breathing difficulty and in some cases proven fatal. Two common denominators that seem to be an ongoing problem with air conditioning systems include routine HVAC maintenance checks and regularly changing your air filters.

Here are four benefits for maintaining clean air filters during this heatwave:

1.      Saves you money

2.      Improves indoor air quality

3.      Allows for better airflow to cool your indoors more effectively

4.      Helps your system to perform with optimal results

Airborne pollutants and allergens such as dust, smoke, pet dander, mold spores and dirt clogs your air filter, reduces your airflow and puts a strain on your air conditioning system. For optimum performance, based on usage, your indoor air quality and the type of furnace air filter you use, be sure to change your air filter regularly, especially during this summer heat.

Choosing the air filter that best suits your personal needs can include one of the following:

Fiberglass/Polyester Air Filters are the most economical and probably the least effective. Their media captures large particles, but are not effective for capturing smaller airborne particles.

Polypleated Air Filters are generally made from polyester or cotton media. This filter is denser and captures more airborne pollutants than fiberglass air filters or washable and reusable filters.

Permanent Electrostatically Charged Air Filters like the Filtrete Ultra Allergen Air Filter are made of electrostatically charged fibers that help to capture airborne particles magnetically drawn to the air filter.

Electronic Air Filters are permanent fixtures in your HVAC systems and require an electrical connection.  They may capture smaller instead of larger particles. Electronic cleaners however, can produce ozone, which is a lung irritant.

HEPA Air Filters like the IQAir HealthPro Hyper HEPA Air Filter Replacement is thicker than standard sized HEPA Filters. It captures many airborne particles and allergens such as pollen, dirt, dust, pet dander, hair, mold spores, bacteria and other indoor air pollutants as small as 0.3 microns.

According to the EPA, indoor air pollution is among the top five environmental health risks. Be sure to check your evaporator coils if you have access to them and your ductwork to make sure they are clean every time you change your air filter. Although this intense heatwave will zap you of your energy and dehydrate your body, don’t allow your air conditioning system to suffer performance fatigue by neglecting to change your air filter frequently.