One of the first things that come to mind when discussing indoor comfort is temperature, which can vary depending on your HVAC system type. However, there are other factors to consider as well, the proper combination of which can result in an exceptionally comfortable home. In this blog, Premier Comfort discusses the factors that affect indoor comfort.
Temperature — Indoor temperature is understandably the biggest factor that affects indoor comfort. The desire for year-round comfort is the reason why homeowners invest in HVAC systems, but maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures doesn’t start and end with the HVAC system; you also need an insulated enclosure to maintain it. Therefore, investing in proper insulation and energy-efficient windows and entry doors will help maintain comfortable indoor temperatures, as well as save on energy consumption in the long run.
Humidity — Relative indoor humidity can directly affect indoor comfort, regardless of the HVAC system type installed in your home. Humid indoor spaces in the summer can feel hotter than they really are, while dry air during winter can cause cracked lips and other skin problems. To maintain ideal indoor humidity levels between 45% and 55%, monitor relative indoor humidity with a hygrometer and use a humidifier/dehumidifier to control moisture levels in the air. You can also have a humidifier/dehumidifier system integrated with your HVAC system.
Indoor Air Quality — Nobody wants to stay in a home with stale air, or one that’s permeated with a moldy smell. To maintain good indoor air quality (IAQ), you need to make sure that the air filters in your HVAC system are regularly cleaned or changed. If you’re still using flat paper filters, consider upgrading to pleated ones, which have superior filtering capacity. Always choose air filters that match the recommended MERV ratings indicated on your HVAC system.
Control — You should be able to control all three of these factors to achieve optimal indoor comfort. Programmable thermostats have pretty much become the standard control system for HVAC units. In addition to an easy-to-read panel, this type of thermostat lets you create your own heating and cooling schedule, which is perfect for those who follow regular work or school hours. Smart home systems extend programmability by adding control over relative indoor humidity, letting you know when it’s time to replace the air filters and allowing you to use WiFi to control things remotely via a smartphone app.
Call Premier Comfort for Your Heating and Cooling Needs
Premier Comfort is your leading provider of heating and cooling services, no matter the HVAC system type. Give us a call at (720) 613-5904 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.
