How to Prepare for Whole-House Air Purification System Installation

Your local HVAC contractor will handle the installation of a whole-house air purification system. However, being prepared can make the job easier. Installing a whole-house air purifier is much more complex than setting up a portable model. It’s not something you want to do yourself, although the more you know, the more informed you are about a decision you can make. We’ll look at some important details to consider before choosing a system and scheduling installation.

Why Choose a Whole-House Air Purifier?

Standalone air purifiers can do a good job, but their coverage is typically limited. Installing multiple purifiers around your home can be tedious and expensive, not to mention waste energy. They may also not capture all the pollutants in the air.

A whole-house unit is installed directly in your HVAC system. Air is purified as it passes through the ductwork, which reduces air duct contamination and increases system efficiency. This also protects HVAC equipment from potential damage. The filtration element is a single unit that can clean all the air circulating through your home.

A Professional Evaluation

An in-home evaluation is a key step in preparing for whole-house air purification system installation. Your local HVAC company sends a technician to check numerous variables. In assessing your home, they look at the following factors:

• Size of the space the air purifier will serve.
• The number of air changes per hour is needed.
• Specific pollutants that must be targeted.

In addition, a professional determines the ideal location for the equipment. It should be installed where no obstructions restrict air intake or output. They will choose a location or suggest modifications so no furniture, curtains, or other items interfere with the unit. 

Decide on the Best System

Different types of whole-house air purifiers are available. They differ based on the types of particulates they’re most effective at removing. There is also a range of technologies. Here are a few types to consider as you prepare for whole-house air purification system installation:

• Filtration-Based Air Purifiers: A whole-house filtration unit removes smaller particles than a standard fiber-based filter. Some purifiers use a carbon filter, but others use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters that remove the finest airborne particles, including dust, pollen, mold spores, and bacteria.
• UV-Based Air Purifiers: Using UV-C light, a UV air purifier can effectively neutralize organic pathogens and microorganisms. Many whole-house air purification systems combine mechanical filtration with ultraviolet light.
• Electronically Charged Air Purifiers: These use electrical energy to give particles a positive or negative charge, attracting them to a metal plate. This element must be regularly washed and replaced. The system works with large and small particles. 

Determine the Best Efficiency Rating for Your Home

Air purification systems are rated using a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV). The higher the MERV rating, the smaller the particles a filter can remove, but the more it can impede airflow and strain a heating or cooling system. 

A fiberglass filter typically has a 1-3 MERV rating. It can get clogged quickly and doesn’t capture many particulates. Filter changes are required about every 30 days. A pleated filter has a 7-12 MERV rating and can capture more pollutants. The most effective filtration systems have HEPA-rated filters with MERV ratings of 17 or higher. They can remove up to 99% of particles from indoor air, though they require a powerful HVAC system to maintain airflow and avoid equipment damage.

Therefore, consult with your HVAC contractor about whether your heating and cooling system is strong enough to work with a whole-house air purifier.

The Installation Process

Knowing the whole-house air purification system installation process can help you understand how to get prepared. You’ll need to clear a path for the installers from the front door to the area where they install the equipment. The space around the air handler or furnace must also be cleared of obstructions or clutter. 

While air scrubbers are mounted directly within the ductwork and air cleaners between the return ducts and air handler, whole-house air purifiers are different. If installed the same way, they’d restrict airflow too much. The system cannot be connected directly to your ductwork; the blower could be overloaded. A residential HVAC system isn’t strong enough.

Therefore, some preparation is required beforehand. The air purification system must be installed as a bypass, which requires the following steps:

• Cut two circular holes in the return plenum.
• Connect the purifier to the plenum with flexible ducting.
• Set up one flex duct to supply air to the purifier.
• Attach the other flex duct to the return duct.

One tube delivers air directly to the purification system. Meanwhile, the second flex tube delivers clean air to the return duct. As the HVAC system runs, the blower creates suction so air can be drawn through the filter. An electric fan blows clean air into the return ductwork.

Do I Have as Much Filtration As I Need?

Whole-house air purifiers are complex and not cheap. Therefore, research each type of system and carefully consider the model you install. The typical air purification system has a series of filters. This enables them to trap various-sized particles. 

A pre-filter traps pet hair and other large particles and in most units, air then passes through a HEPA filter. Some units contain a carbon filter to trap odors. Others use catalysts and UV light to eliminate organic pollutants, including microorganisms and volatile organic compounds.

Prepare Your HVAC System

Depending on your heating and cooling system, it may need to be prepared before a whole-house air purifier can be installed. Any required modifications ensure safety, efficiency, and optimal indoor air quality. Some services that can be suggested include air duct cleaning or replacing existing filters. A technician may also inspect electrical components and connections to ensure there are no hazards or code violations.

Consider the Cost-Benefits

Whole-house air purifiers can cost thousands of dollars. You can prepare by budgeting and considering the benefits of such an investment. For example, the removal of particles and other pollutants can protect your HVAC system from damage. It can avoid costly repairs, improve energy efficiency, and have health benefits. Therefore, while the initial investment may be high, the cost of frequent repairs, high utility bills, and indoor air quality-related medical expenses may be eliminated.

Hire a Local HVAC Contractor 

Aside from installing equipment, a professional helps plan and prepare for whole-house air purification system installation. They are trained in every part of the process. Using the proper tools and techniques, they ensure the unit is compatible with your HVAC system, properly connected, and sealed to avoid air leakage and contamination. A reputable contractor can be found through online reviews, friends and family members, and by contacting the business directly and assessing its quality of service.

Contact Trio Heating & Air

At Trio Heating & Air, we provide whole-house air purification system installation and maintenance services in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area. We use cutting-edge equipment to eliminate a wide range of airborne impurities. Our comprehensive installation process includes an indoor air quality assessment and finding equipment suited for your home and HVAC system. You can also depend on our team for professional air duct cleaning and filter replacement. To learn more or request an assessment, contact us or call (415) 480-7741.