Microns And Their Relevance to HVAC
What Is a Micron?
A micron is a unit of measurement commonly used in various industries to describe the size of particles or objects. It is derived from the metric system and is equivalent to one-millionth of a meter or one-thousandth of a millimeter. Microns are commonly used in various industries to describe the size of objects that are too small to be seen with the naked eye.
Causes of Microscopic Particles Within A Home
Microscopic particles, often measured in microns, can enter homes through various sources, leading to indoor air pollution. These particles, which are small enough to be inhaled, pose health risks and can affect the quality of the air in your home. Here are common causes of microns within a home:
- Dust: Household dust, consisting of dead skin cells, pet dander, and fabric fibers, can contribute to the presence of particles. Dust accumulates from regular activities, such as walking, moving furniture, or even opening windows.
- Outdoor Pollution: Airborne pollutants from outside, such as pollen, vehicle emissions, and industrial pollutants, can enter through windows, doors, and vents, increasing the number of particles inside
- HVAC Systems: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems can circulate dust and allergens if filters aren’t changed regularly. Dirty filters or poorly maintained systems allow microns to build up in the air.
- Cooking and Smoking: Cooking, particularly frying or grilling, produces airborne particles from food fumes, oils, and smoke. Similarly, smoking indoors releases fine particles into the air that linger and settle.
- Pet Dander: Pets shed hair and skin cells, which contain microscopic dander that can trigger allergies and respiratory problems.
To reduce the presence of harmful particles, it's essential to clean regularly, maintain HVAC systems, and use air purifiers to filter microns from the air.
Health Risks of Microscopic Particles
Microscopic particles, such as particulate matter (PM), pose significant health risks, especially when inhaled. These tiny particles, often found in air pollution, dust, and smoke, are small enough to penetrate the respiratory system and reach deep into the lungs. Particulate matter is categorized based on size: PM10 (10 micrometers or smaller) and PM2.5 (2.5 micrometers or smaller), with PM2.5 being the most dangerous due to its ability to travel even deeper into the lungs and bloodstream.
Exposure to these particles can cause or worsen a variety of respiratory and cardiovascular issues. Short-term exposure can trigger symptoms like coughing, throat irritation, and shortness of breath. Long-term exposure increases the risk of chronic conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung cancer. It also contributes to heart disease, strokes, and exacerbates preexisting conditions like diabetes.
Microscopic particles can be especially harmful to vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and individuals with existing respiratory or heart conditions. The fine particles can also worsen air quality indoors, making air filtration and regular ventilation essential for maintaining a healthy living environment.
Reducing exposure to microscopic particles involves improving air quality through proper filtration, reducing outdoor pollution, and taking precautions during high-pollution periods.
Carrier Solution For Microscopic Particles
At Carrier, we recognize the importance of clean air in your home. Our advanced Infinity Air Purifier is engineered to capture and filter particles as small as 0.3 microns, including allergens, dust, and pet dander. This air purifier can inactivate 99% of select airborne pathogens trapped by its MERV 15 filter, including coronavirus, bacteria, the common cold, human influenza, and other pathogens. This whole-home filtration system works silently in-line with your HVAC system to help reduce pet dander, pollen, dirt and other particles that can circulate throughout your home. Our patented Captures & Kills technology traps 95% of particles in micron size range 1.0 to 3.0 flowing through the HVAC system and subjects them to an intense electric field. The Infinity Air Purifier is available in various sizes that can accommodate most homes. Schedule an appointment with your local Carrier dealer to get one installed today.
