Indoor Air Quality FAQ

Question 1

Is indoor air quality really a concern in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — Florida homes are among the most at-risk in the country. High humidity creates ideal conditions for mold and mildew growth inside ductwork and air handlers. Homes are tightly sealed for energy efficiency, which traps pollutants inside. The EPA estimates indoor air can be 2–5x more polluted than outdoor air.

Question 2

What are the most common indoor air pollutants?

Accepted Answer

In South Florida homes, the most common culprits are: mold spores (from humidity), dust mites, pet dander, pollen tracked indoors, VOCs (volatile organic compounds from cleaning products, paint, and furniture), and carbon dioxide buildup in tightly sealed homes. Your AC system circulates all of these unless you have proper filtration.

Question 3

What is a MERV rating and what does it mean for my filter?

Accepted Answer

MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rates how well a filter captures particles. Standard 1-inch filters are MERV 1–4 and capture large debris but miss most allergens. MERV 8–11 filters capture dust mites and pollen. MERV 13–16 captures bacteria and fine particles. However, very high MERV filters can restrict airflow in systems not designed for them — we recommend the right MERV for your specific equipment.

Question 4

What is a UV air purifier and does it actually work?

Accepted Answer

UV (ultraviolet) air purifiers use germicidal UV-C light installed inside your air handler to kill mold, bacteria, and viruses as air passes through. They are highly effective in Florida's humid climate where mold growth inside the air handler is common. Studies show UV systems can reduce mold and bacteria by 50–99% depending on the unit and installation.

Question 5

Can my AC system help with humidity control?

Accepted Answer

Your AC does remove some humidity as a byproduct of cooling, but it is not designed as a dedicated dehumidifier. In Florida, where humidity regularly exceeds 70–80%, a whole-home dehumidifier paired with your AC system provides much better control. Proper humidity (45–55% RH) also prevents mold growth and makes your home feel cooler at higher thermostat settings.

Question 6

What is a whole-home dehumidifier and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A whole-home dehumidifier installs in your ductwork and runs independently of your AC to maintain target humidity levels. It is especially valuable in Florida during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) when it is not hot enough to run the AC constantly but humidity is still high. Signs you need one: musty odors, condensation on windows, or allergy symptoms that worsen at home.

Question 7

My home smells musty. What causes that?

Accepted Answer

A musty smell almost always means mold or mildew — either in your ductwork, on your evaporator coil, in the drain pan, or in the air handler itself. This is extremely common in Florida. We can inspect and clean the affected components and recommend a UV purifier or dehumidifier to prevent recurrence.

Question 8

How do I know if I have mold in my AC system?

Accepted Answer

Signs include: musty or earthy odors when the AC runs, visible dark spots near vents or on the air handler, increased allergy or asthma symptoms at home, or a professional inspection finding mold on the coil or in the drain pan. We recommend an inspection if you have any of these symptoms — mold in the AC system circulates spores throughout your entire home.

Question 9

What is an air scrubber and how is it different from a filter?

Accepted Answer

A standard filter passively captures particles as air passes through it. An air scrubber (like the ActivePure or RGF REME HALO) actively sends purifying ions and oxidizers into your living space to neutralize pollutants, odors, and pathogens on surfaces and in the air — not just what passes through the filter. They are particularly effective for odors, VOCs, and airborne pathogens.

Question 10

Will improving my air quality help with allergies?

Accepted Answer

Yes, significantly. Upgrading to a high-MERV filter, adding a UV purifier, and controlling humidity can dramatically reduce the allergen load in your home. Many of our customers with allergies or asthma report noticeable improvement within weeks of an IAQ upgrade. We can recommend a solution based on your specific symptoms and home.

Question 11

How much does an indoor air quality upgrade cost?

Accepted Answer

Costs vary by solution: a high-MERV media filter upgrade runs $200–$400 installed. A UV air purifier is typically $400–$800 installed. A whole-home dehumidifier is $1,200–$2,000 installed. Many customers combine solutions for comprehensive protection. We provide written estimates with no obligation.

11 Indoor Air Quality Questions Answered

Breathe easier — we can help.

Indoor Air Quality Frequently Asked Questions — Florida Air Services

Indoor Air Quality FAQ

11 Indoor Air Quality Questions Answered

Breathe easier — we can help.