What to Expect from a Full-Service Heating Contractor

Posted on October 31, 2023July 5, 2024 by T.F. O'Brien Cooling & Heating

We are Long Island’s Leading HVAC Contractor for Heating

Now that the cooler weather has arrived, homeowners have turned their thoughts to keeping their homes warm and cozy. Whether they own a furnace, boiler, or heat pump system, they want to know that they can rely on their heating contractor to meet their needs, from annual maintenance and repairs to system replacement.

A reliable contractor offers a complete listing of services, as well as quality replacement equipment and any ancillary products, such as filters or indoor air quality equipment. In this article, we’ll outline the services you need to ensure that your home heating system is ready to keep you and your family warm all winter long, and we’ll explain how T.F. O’Brien can help. Keep reading to learn more!

Heating Maintenance

Heating maintenance is one of the most important services an HVAC contractor can provide for their customers. That’s because seasonal preventive maintenance is vital for heating system effectiveness and efficiency. When properly maintained, a heating system will likely last much longer than a neglected system. And, annual heating system maintenance helps to keep any manufacturer warranties intact, so customers will have less worry about out-of-pocket expenses should the system need repairs. Your contractor should be able to provide yearly maintenance, as well as ancillary services throughout the year, such as filter recommendations and replacement.

Heating Repair

If you’ve had annual maintenance on your furnace, boiler, or heat pump, the need for repairs will generally be less frequent, and usually less costly because maintenance helps to catch any small issues before they become large, more expensive ones. However, like any type of complex machinery, a home heating system is likely to need some sort of repair service during its lifespan. A good heating contractor will be able to troubleshoot your system, make recommendations as to what the best repair options might be, and complete your repairs promptly. And, if the system is beyond repair, or repairs will likely be extremely expensive, your contractor should be able to recommend an appropriate replacement solution.

Heating Replacement & Installation

Most heating systems can be expected to last between 10-20 years. The better it has been maintained, the longer you can expect your heating system to last. When it’s time to replace your system, it’s important to choose a contractor who not only provides quality equipment and expert installation but can also help you get any other heating service you might need. An experienced contractor can help you choose the best system for your home, budget, and lifestyle needs, and can make sure the system you choose is properly sized for your home.

T.F. O’Brien offers complete heating services for your home.

You can rely on T.F. O’Brien to provide you with the heating solutions you need to stay comfortable, no matter how chilly it gets outside. Our skilled technicians can provide maintenance and repair on a wide range of heating system brands and types, so whether you have a furnace, boiler, or heat pump system in your home, we can help you keep it maintained properly, and make any repairs, should you need them. And, when the time comes to replace your heating system, we’re pleased to offer you equipment from brands you can trust. Plus, we offer a wide selection of replacement filters in our online filter store, so you won’t have to deal with finding a replacement for your dirty filters again.

When you need heating services for your home, count on T.F. O’Brien to help. Just give us a call at 516.488.1800 and we will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have and to schedule an appointment with you.

Feel Better This Fall with Improved Indoor Air Quality

Posted on October 2, 2023July 5, 2024 by T.F. O'Brien Cooling & Heating

Young woman wrapped in blanket drinking hot tea Fall is here, and with it comes all the wonderful things that the season brings – changing leaves, colorful home decorations, and yes, pumpkin spice everything. Unfortunately, the fall season can also bring along seasonal allergies and viruses, both of which can leave you feeling sniffly and sneezy. The good news is that there are many products available that can help keep allergens and viruses at bay in your home, helping you and your family enjoy a healthier fall season.

In this article, we’ll talk about some of the products available that can help to improve your indoor air quality (IAQ) by removing unwanted particulates from the air you and your family breathe. And, we’ll explain how T.F. O’Brien can help you get these products – and improved IAQ for your home. Keep reading to learn more!

Three Ways to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality

Learn more about IAQ products that have been specially designed to clear the air in your home:

High-Efficiency Air Cleaners: Most heating and cooling systems use a filter that helps keep larger particles, like dust and dirt, out of your home’s air. But the main function of your furnace filter is to help keep your system running efficiently and to help keep the inner components of your system clean. Often, people find that they need more advanced filtration, and that’s where air cleaners come in. This product helps to remove other particles, like spores and pollen, from your indoor air – and that can make a big difference to the allergy sufferers in your household.
Air Purifier: A photocatalytic oxidizing air purifier works to improve your indoor air quality by chemically treating the air to remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These compounds are the byproducts of common household materials like paint, carpet, vinyl flooring, air fresheners, cleaning products, and more, as well as other pollutants. People with sensitivity to chemicals and synthetic scents often find that their symptoms improve once an air purifier is installed.
Ultraviolet (UV) Germicidal Lights: Once the kids are back to school, many families find themselves dealing with all sorts of viral and bacterial illnesses. Ultraviolet germicidal lights can kill up to 99% of airborne contaminants like mold, bacteria, and viruses.

All three of these products are often installed together and work in conjunction with each other to tackle the toughest IAQ problems. A professional HVAC contractor can help you make the right choice when it comes to which products may be best for your home.

T.F. O’Brien can help you get the IAQ solutions you need.

If you’re ready for a whole-house air quality solution that will ensure a safe, healthy environment your family and guests can truly enjoy, call us. No two homes are the same, and we’ll be happy to send one of our Home Comfort Advisors to meet with you at your convenience to evaluate your unique situation and make recommendations. Then, our professional technicians will install the needed IAQ solutions – and you and your family will be breathing fresher, cleaner air in no time. Just give us a call at 516.488.1800 to get started.

Why Choose a Heat Pump for My Home?

Posted on September 5, 2023July 5, 2024 by T.F. O'Brien Cooling & Heating

mother and children sit on sofa reading book Have you been thinking about replacing an old home comfort system, but are interested in newer technology and higher energy efficiency? Then it might be time for you to consider a heat pump system. While heat pumps have been around for a while, many people in the Northeastern part of the country are just learning about their many advantages.

That’s because for a while, heat pumps weren’t made to operate in cooler climates. But, over the years they have advanced and are now cold-climate capable, making them a great choice for home comfort even in areas where the temperatures can dip down significantly during the winter months. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of heat pump systems, and tell you how T.F. O’Brien can help you get the right heat pump model for your home. Keep reading to learn more!

5 Benefits of Heat Pump Systems

Most people who are interested in heat pump technology for their homes scour the web for information. We’ve made it easy for you to explore some of the benefits of heat pump systems, including:

Year-Round Comfort: For many homeowners, the main attraction of a heat pump system is that it offers cooling and heating all in one system, so they don’t have to replace two separate units. During the summer months, the system extracts the heat inside your home and pumps it outdoors. In the winter months, the process is reversed, drawing heat from outdoor air, and pumping it into your home.
High Efficiency: One of the main benefits of a heat pump system is their high efficiency. According to the Department of Energy, today’s heat pump can reduce your electricity use for heating by approximately 50% compared to electric resistance heating such as furnaces and baseboard heaters. They also mention that high-efficiency heat pumps also dehumidify better than standard central air conditioners, resulting in less energy usage and more cooling comfort in summer months. That means you’ll save money on your utility bills, all while enjoying improved comfort all year long.
Clean Comfort: For those concerned about the environment, a heat pump system is ideal. That’s because heat pumps don’t use fossil fuels to heat your home. As the world looks toward renewable energy and cleaner cooling and heating, heat pumps are considered a much more earth-friendly option for home comfort.
Multiple Configurations: Heat pumps are available in many different configurations, including air-sourced and geothermal. Additionally, they are available in both ducted and ductless That means, if you’re replacing a central heating and air conditioning system, a ducted heat pump is the ideal choice. If your home doesn’t have a duct system and you want to replace old electric baseboard heat and window AC units, ductless is a great option.
Excellent Incentives: Because of their energy efficiency and cleaner operation, there are often excellent incentives available for heat pump systems. For instance, NYS Clean Heat and PSEG offer incentives on heat pump installation, and there are incentives available through the Inflation Reduction Act as well.

How can T.F. O’Brien help me get a heat pump system for my home?

At T.F. O’Brien, we know how important it is for our customers to be comfortable while enjoying better energy efficiency in their homes. That’s why we’re pleased to offer heat pumps in both ducted and ductless configurations. When you work with us on a heat pump system for your home, we’ll make sure you get the right model for the size of your home and your unique needs. We can help you learn more about taking advantage of various incentive programs. And, we’ll provide you with professional installation of your new system, as well as maintenance so that it lasts a long time.

If you’d like to find out more about heat pumps, all you need to do is give us a call at 516-488-1800, and we will be more than happy to assist you.

Air Quality Warning? We Can Help You Breathe Easier.

Posted on August 1, 2023July 5, 2024 by T.F. O'Brien Cooling & Heating

smoky sky from wildfires This summer, we have seen many days where the outdoor air quality is poor due to the wildfires in Canada. Just when it seems like we’re in the clear, the fires ramp up again bringing hazy smoke to Long Island. Many people wonder what they can do to stay safe during the wildfires, and aren’t sure if there are any products available that can help.

In this article, we’ll share some of the most frequently asked questions about the Canadian wildfires and the smoke they have been producing. We’ll also tell you what T.F. O’Brien can do to help you ensure that the air in your home is as fresh and clean as possible. Keep reading below to learn more!

Frequently Asked Questions About the Canadian Wildfires

Are the Canadian wildfires over?

Unfortunately, no. As of July 18, there were still more than 880 active fires across Canada. Because it has been very difficult to get the wildfires under control, it is likely that we in New York will still be affected by the residual smoke for some time.

What kind of fumes are emitted by wildfires?

Wildfire smoke is typically a mixture of particulates, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, water vapor, nitrogen oxides, and trace minerals. This smoke is from the burning of trees and other vegetation. When homes and other structures succumb to wildfire as well, other chemical compounds are released into the air.

Who is most at risk for health concerns when breathing wildfire smoke?

While breathing in wildfire smoke is not ideal for anyone, there are certain members of the population that need to take extra precautions. People with asthma, COPD, or other respiratory diseases are at very high risk, as well as anyone with cardiopulmonary concerns. Children, the elderly, and those who are pregnant or nursing should also take additional safety members. Anyone who works outdoors should consider wearing protective gear when there is an air quality alert in their area.

Does running my air conditioning system help?

If you have a central air conditioning system or a ductless system, running your system may help keep the air cleaner in your home. Window air conditioning systems may not be as effective unless they have a tight seal with the window frame. Otherwise, the polluted air can leak in. Portable air conditioner use may result in outdoor smoke being drawn into the home.

Are there any indoor air quality products that can help me and my family stay safer?

Proper filtration and air cleaning are key, especially for anyone who could be at increased risk of health problems due to wildfire smoke. T. F. O’Brien can help you get the right filter for your HVAC system and help you with advanced air cleaning as well.

We help you filter the air in your home by installing a highly efficient air cleaner. This is a much more effective solution than standard filters. And, we can install a photocatalytic oxidizing air purifier to chemically treat the air to remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are the byproducts of common household materials like paint, carpet, vinyl flooring, air fresheners, cleaning products, and more, as well as other pollutants like smoke.

Trust T.F. O’Brien to help you get the advanced air filters and air cleaners you need.

Of course, you can always count on T.F. O’Brien to help you should you have any additional concerns about the quality of the air in your home. Just give us a call at 516.488.1800 and we will be more than happy to help you.

5 Reasons Why Changing Your HVAC Filter is Important

Posted on June 28, 2023July 5, 2024 by T.F. O'Brien Cooling & Heating

person changing HVAC filter If you’ve been reading our articles for a while, you know that one thing we always tell our customers is that it’s important to change the filter in their HVAC system on a regular basis. No matter what the weather is, it’s likely that you’re either running your heating system or cooling system often and as a result, your filter is probably working hard to keep particles out of your furnace or air conditioner – and out of the air in your home.

For more information,
Call or click here:
516.488.1800

But you might not know the actual benefits of changing your HVAC filter, or the different types of filters available. In this article, we’ll share five reasons why changing your filter regularly is important, the types of filters available, and how T.F. O’Brien can help. Keep reading to learn more!

Benefits of Changing Your HVAC Filter Regularly

When we talk about changing your filter on a “regular basis”, this generally means monthly when your system is operating frequently, or whenever the filter becomes dirty. Here are the top five reasons why you should consider changing your HVAC filter often:

System Efficiency: A dirty filter makes it harder for your HVAC system to work, and that usually means it uses more energy to keep your home cool or warm. A clean filter allows the air to pass freely through the system, keeping your system efficient and helping you save money on utility costs.
System Longevity: As we mentioned above, if your filter is dirty, your system needs to work harder to do its job. Over time, that can create additional wear and tear on your system. Not to mention, your HVAC system’s components will corrode faster – and that can take years off the life of your system.
Improved Home Comfort: A clean filter allows the cooled or heated air to move throughout your home more effectively. When your HVAC system is working effectively and efficiently, it just stands to reason that you and your family will enjoy better comfort all throughout your home.
Cleaner, Fresher Indoor Air: While the main purpose of an HVAC filter is to keep particulates out of your equipment, a dirty filter often means that the air in your home is not as clean as it should be. By changing the filter regularly, those particles will be trapped in the filter, and not in the air you breathe.
Fewer Repairs: Regularly changing the filter in your HVAC system is one of the things you can do to help maintain your system, along with annual maintenance by a qualified professional. When your furnace and air conditioning system are properly maintained, they’ll be less likely to need costly repairs.

What types of filters are available for my HVAC system?

There are many different types of filters available for HVAC systems today, ranging from very simple paper filters to more advanced HEPA filters. It is very important to use the right type of filter for your system. Many people think that a filter with a high MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating is best for their HVAC system and home, but unfortunately, too high of a rating may tax your system and make it less efficient.

The best way to know what type of filter is best for your system is to either check the system manual for the recommended filter type or to ask your HVAC professional. Ultimately, the best choice for your heating and cooling equipment is to use the proper filter per manufacturer recommendations and to change it regularly.

Can T.F. O’Brien help with my filter needs?

Of course! At T.F. O’Brien, our skilled technicians are always able to help you choose the correct filter for your HVAC system and show you how to properly change it. And, we’re excited to announce that you can now order your filters directly from T.F. O’Brien. Our new filter shop carries a comprehensive range of filter types, so you can rest assured that you’ll be using the appropriate filter for your system.

Visit Our Filter Shop

If you have any questions about our filter shop or what type of filter you need, you can always contact us online or call us at 516.488.1800, and we will be more than happy to assist you.

Keeping Safe During Poor Air Quality Alerts

Posted on June 9, 2023July 5, 2024 by T.F. O'Brien Cooling & Heating

woman looks out at haze and smoke caused by wildfire At T.F. O’Brien, it’s always a priority to help our customers stay safe and comfortable. With the recent wildfires in Canada and the subsequent effect they’re having on our local environment, you might be concerned about the outdoor air quality, and how you can stay safe. It isn’t as simple as staying indoors until the poor air quality warnings expire, because that outdoor air can find its way into your home and cause issues for you and your family.

We’ve put together a few suggestions for keeping the polluted air out of your home:

Wear a mask if you need to go out, especially if you have respiratory concerns. Masks can help you keep from inhaling pollutants, like pollen or smoggy air. Make sure the mask fits tightly around your nose and mouth.
Keep your windows closed, and only open outside doors when necessary. While it’s always tempting to open windows this time of year, on days when the air quality outside is poor it’s a good idea to keep them shut – and keep the pollutants outside.
Avoid running window fans and window AC units. This can bring polluted air indoors. And while you can’t see the particles in the air caused by fires or pollinating plants and trees, they’re there, and can easily enter your home via your fans or air conditioners. If you have a good filter on your central air conditioner, that should be okay to run.
Check the air quality regularly. As we’ve seen recently, the air quality can change dramatically over the course of just a few hours. The AirNow website has up-to-date information as well as air quality forecasts so that you can plan accordingly.
Consider air purification. An air purifier can help to remove pollutants from the air in your home. You can buy portable air purifiers at most department and home improvement stores. If you or a family suffers from respiratory conditions, you may want to talk to T.F. O’Brien about whole-home air quality solutions.

Of course, you can always count on T.F. O’Brien to help you should you have any additional concerns about the quality of the air in your home. Just give us a call at 516.488.1800 and we will be more than happy to help you.

Stay Cool This Summer with Ductless

Posted on May 30, 2023July 5, 2024 by T.F. O'Brien Cooling & Heating

girl adjusts ductless unit while sitting on sofa in front of window Now that the summer season is fast approaching, you might be thinking about ways to keep certain areas of your home cool and comfortable, especially spaces where you might be using window or portable air conditioning. Maybe you have a bonus room or a home theatre you’d like to get more use out of this summer, or maybe your summer home could benefit from a cooling system.

For more information,
Call or click here:
516.488.1800

A great solution to your cooling conundrums can be ductless air conditioning. A ductless cooling system offers many benefits, especially when compared to window air conditioning units, and can be easily installed in your home. In this article, we’ll talk about some of the benefits of choosing ductless, and we’ll tell you how we can help you with your ductless needs. Keep reading to learn more!

5 Benefits of Ductless Air Conditioning

Ductless systems have become a popular way to cool spaces or entire homes, that do not have ductwork. Homes that have radiant heating systems often were not built with ductwork, nor with the wall space to add it. In the past, people who owned these types of homes were limited when it came to cooling options. Ductless systems offer a much better cooling option over window air conditioning, and here are a few reasons why:

Ductless AC is highly efficient. Because ductless systems often use heat pump technology, they provide one of the most efficient cooling options, with many ductless systems using up to 40 percent less energy than a typical window unit. And that means savings on your utility bills!
Ductless systems are non-intrusive. Anyone who has used window air conditioners knows that they tend to be noisy and obstruct the view. That can be a huge drawback in some situations, like if you have a summer home overlooking the ocean! Ductless systems are installed high on the wall or in the ceiling, keeping them out of your immediate living space.
Installation is permanent and usually can be completed quickly. Unlike a window unit that you must remove and store over the winter, a ductless system is a permanent installation in your home. Renovation is minimal; generally, only a small hole is required to connect the indoor and outdoor unit components.
Ductless air conditioning is quiet. As mentioned above, most people find that ductless systems are whisper-quiet, unlike most window units. This means you can use them in spaces like bedrooms, theatre rooms, and home offices – and you won’t have to worry about noisy, disruptive system operation.
You can even get year-round comfort. That’s right! Ductless systems often can provide heating in cooler weather, too, making them especially beneficial in areas where you might have had to rely on space heaters, which can take up floor space and can cause a fire hazard. And, because they use the same heat pump technology to keep your home warm, you can count on efficient heating as well.

How can T.F. O’Brien help me get the ductless cooling I need?

At T.F. O’Brien, we take great pride in our expert installation of ductless cooling and heating systems. We can help you find the right ductless system for your home, and our experienced technicians can install it for you quickly and professionally. And, we can provide you with additional services, like ductless maintenance and repair.

If you think ductless might be a great choice for your home, T.F. O’Brien can help. We have ductless equipment on hand and can likely install it in your home right away! Give us a call at 516.488.1800, and we’ll be happy to schedule an appointment with you.

Pollen? No Problem. Indoor Air Quality Products Can Help.

Posted on May 2, 2023July 5, 2024 by T.F. O'Brien Cooling & Heating

woman with spring flowers sneezes into tissue April showers bring May flowers, and May flowers bring more than Pilgrims – they bring lots and lots of pollen. It’s easy to enjoy the bright, beautiful blooms of spring when you don’t suffer from seasonal allergies, but if you do, you know springtime also means sniffling, sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion. While we’d love to be able to help our customers breathe easier outdoors during these high-pollen months, we can’t – but, we can help them keep the air clear inside.

For more information,
Call or click here:
516.488.1800

The way we do this is by providing you with a comprehensive indoor air quality (IAQ) solution that addresses your concerns and helps you get the quality IAQ products you need to enjoy fresher, cleaner indoor air. Our three-step approach to indoor air quality helps most homeowners clear up any air quality concerns they might have, allowing them to breathe easier – even during the height of allergy season.

What is T.F. O’Brien’s three-step approach to improving indoor air quality?

Before we recommend any products, it’s important to us that we understand the unique indoor air quality needs of your home. When you call us, we’ll schedule an appointment for you with one of our home comfort advisors, who will evaluate your home and lifestyle needs and make recommendations on products that can help. Then, we get to work:

We filter the air by installing a highly efficient air cleaner. This is a much more effective solution than standard filters.
We install a photocatalytic oxidizing air purifier to chemically treat the air to remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are the byproducts of common household materials like paint, carpet, vinyl flooring, air fresheners, cleaning products, and more, as well as other pollutants.
We install ultraviolet germicidal lights that kill up to 99% of airborne contaminants like mold, bacteria, and viruses.

If you or someone in your family suffer from respiratory concerns like allergies or asthma, you can see how this approach can greatly benefit your entire household – and improve the quality of the air you breathe all year long.

Why is my standard air filter not enough?

You absolutely need a filter on your home comfort equipment. But, these standard filters are more or less meant to keep your system clean rather than the air that circulates throughout your home. And sometimes, using a filter with a higher MERV rating might cause equipment issues if your system is not compatible.

That’s why we suggest supplementing the standard filter with an air cleaner. Our air cleaners eliminate the small particles, like pollen, that can easily slip through a standard filter. And, they also remove other common allergens like dust, pet dander, and mold spores. With a reduction of allergens in the air in your home, you’ll not only breathe easier; you’ll enjoy a cleaner home, a better night’s sleep, and help improve the energy efficiency of your home comfort equipment.

Ready to take control of your seasonal allergies? We can help!

Whether you have someone in your home with allergy concerns, or you’d simply like cleaner, healthier air for your family, you can trust T.F. O’Brien to help you get the IAQ products and solutions you need. Simply contact us online or give us a call at 516.488.1800, and we’ll be happy to schedule an appointment with you.

Get April-Fresh Air with the Air Scrubber by Aerus®

Posted on March 30, 2023July 5, 2024 by T.F. O'Brien Cooling & Heating

child gives mother spring flowers Once spring arrives, people start to think about sunny days, blossoming trees, and blooming flowers. While this is a beautiful time of year for many, it can also be uncomfortable for those with seasonal allergies. Pollen counts are on the rise, and mold growth is prompted by rain and warmer weather. Unfortunately, there isn’t a lot you can do about the air outside this time of year.

For more information,
Call or click here:
516.488.1800

The good news is, there is something you can do about the air you breathe indoors. One of the most effective indoor air quality products on the market is the Air Scrubber by Aerus. In this article, we’ll tell you about the Air Scrubber, the different configurations available, and how we can help you get this product for your home. Keep reading to learn more!

What is the Air Scrubber by Aerus?

The Air Scrubber is an air purification device that attaches directly to the HVAC system ductwork in your home to reduce viruses, bacteria, and other contaminants in the ambient air and on surfaces while the HVAC fan is running. It uses a patented, advanced surface and air purification technology. It has been proven to reduce up to 99.9% of many common airborne and surface contaminants.

Some of the main benefits of the Air Scrubber include:

Provides 24/7 surface decontamination and air purification
Reduces allergens and other contaminants
Installs directly into existing ductwork
Protects your heating and cooling system from potential buildup
Proven effectiveness against a broad range of harmful bacteria and viruses, including SARS-CoV 2 (the virus that causes COVID-19)

Installing an Air Scrubber in your home can help the air you and your family breathe cleaner, and the surfaces you touch safer. But what happens when you’re at the office or have a room in your home that doesn’t have access to your home’s central duct system?

Portable Air Scrubber models are a perfect choice for work, travel, and bonus rooms.

Fortunately, there are two additional Air Scrubber models available that offer room air purification – the Aerus Pure & Clean, and the Aerus Pure & Clean+. Both models offer the same advanced technology as the Air Scrubber whole-home model but are designed for portability, allowing you to use them in additions or converted rooms in your home where there is no access to ductwork, in your office, and even on vacation.

Can T.F. O’Brien help me choose the right Air Scrubber for my home and lifestyle?

We definitely can! We’re pleased to provide our customers with a whole-home approach to better indoor air quality, which can include the installation of an Air Scrubber. We’re also happy to help our customers who need a portable model. We’ll be happy to send one of our Home Comfort Advisors to meet with you at your convenience to evaluate your unique situation, make recommendations, and provide you with the products you need to start seeing improvements in your home’s IAQ right away. Simply contact us online or give us a call at 516.488.1800, and we’ll be happy to schedule an appointment with you.

The Importance of Clean Indoor Air

Posted on February 6, 2023July 5, 2024 by T.F. O'Brien Cooling & Heating

happy family plays together in home For all of us, the quality of the air we breathe every day is important. Air that contains particulates and contaminants can cause the respiratory system to become irritated, which can lead to a feeling of discomfort or even illness. Even if a person has healthy lungs, if they are exposed to prolonged poor indoor air quality (or IAQ) they can become ill, according to the American Lung Association.

The American Lung Association also notes that for people with certain diseases, poor IAQ can be extremely harmful. Diseases that affect the lungs, like COPD, asthma, emphysema, cystic fibrosis, sarcoidosis, and lung cancer may worsen in situations where indoor air quality is poor. How can you make the air in your home healthier for all family members?

The Main Culprits of Poor IAQ

When the air quality in your home isn’t as healthy as it could be, it’s likely due to a range of particulates and contaminants. That’s because most modern homes are built to be very tight, and that can make it difficult for fresh air to enter the home. As a result, the contaminated air just circulates throughout the home again and again. When looking into some of the main causes of poor indoor air quality, homeowners should consider the following:

Pet Dander
Dust
Chemicals from Household Products (cleaners, paint, adhesives)
Biological Contaminants (mold, mildew, bacteria, viruses, pollen)
Cooking or Tobacco Smoke

If you have concerns about these common household contaminants, you’re not alone. Most people have to contend with indoor air pollution in one form or another, regardless of how clean they keep their houses. However, when indoor air quality starts to cause concerns for the people living in the home, it’s important to know what to do next.

Getting the right indoor air quality products for your home can help.

The good news is homeowners no longer need to suffer from poor indoor air quality. There are so many excellent products available today that can help keep the air clean and help people living in the home enjoy fresher, cleaner air. At T. F. O’Brien, we always want to make sure that your home environment is comfortable for your entire family. That’s why we recommend and install a variety of IAQ products, including:

High-efficiency air cleaners. These are a much more effective solution than standard filters.
Photocatalytic oxidizing air purifier. This chemically treats the air to remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are the byproducts of common household materials like paint, carpet, vinyl flooring, air fresheners, cleaning products, and more, as well as other pollutants.
Ultraviolet (UV) germicidal lights.UV lights can kill up to 99% of airborne contaminants like mold, bacteria, and viruses.
Whole-home humidifiers. A whole-house humidifier can cut down on dry eyes, itchy skin, and scratchy throats, reduce static electricity in the home and protect woodwork and furniture.

T.F. O’Brien can help you get the indoor air quality solutions you need.

Whether you have someone in your home with respiratory concerns, or you’d simply like cleaner, healthier air for your family, you can trust T.F. O’Brien to help you get the IAQ products and solutions you need. No two homes are the same, and we’ll be happy to send one of our Home Comfort Advisors to meet with you at your convenience to evaluate your unique situation, make recommendations, and provide you with the products you need to start seeing improvements in your home’s IAQ right away. Simply contact us online or give us a call at 516.488.1800, and we’ll be happy to schedule an appointment with you.