Pure Genius

The kitchen isn’t the only room in your house susceptible to poor air quality. Pet dander, dust mites in linens, cigarette smoke or allergens in carpet fibers all contribute to poor indoor air quality. The Lennox PureAir™ air purification system addresses all three classes of contaminants (particulates, bioaerosols and odors/chemical vapors). PureAir™ uses non-ozone generating technology to remove VOCs and reduce odors.

Here’s how it works:

• The MERV 16 filter is at least 95 percent effective at removing airborne particulates down to .3 microns – contaminants that standard filtration systems simply can’t stop.
• VOCs or odors and chemical vapors are oxidized into carbon dioxide and water vapor.
• The PureAir™ air purification system installs easily into your ductwork and attacks the problem at its source. By trapping and destroying contaminants, it helps increase the efficiency and reliability of your HVAC system.

For more information, contact your Lennox dealer or visit lennox.com.

Range/Oven:

Ventilation is an important tool in combating poor indoor air quality. Kitchen activities – cooking and cleaning – produce moisture, odors and pollutants that can lower the quality of indoor air. If not used properly, a gas range can emit carbon monoxide and other combustion by-products. Proper ventilation, such as using an exhaust fan when cooking or opening windows and doors to let in outside air, can reduce those odds.

Refrigerator:

Poor indoor air quality can result from odors caused by spoiled foods. Regularly clean the outside and inside of the refrigerator, including the drip pan. Also, be careful not to leave food in areas that could attract pests, which have been found to be an asthma trigger in children. Make dusting on top of and behind appliances a part of your regular cleaning regimen.

Cabinets/Walls:

When choosing a wood finish for cabinets or paint and paper for the kitchen walls, check the label for products low in VOCs, or volatile organic compounds.

Experts also warn that the products stored inside kitchen cabinets – such as cleansers, aerosol sprays and disinfectants – may contain high levels of VOCs and suggest always using products according to the manufacturer’s instructions, tightly sealing unused containers, and safely disposing of half-empty containers and unneeded products.

Sink:

Humidity is a formidable foe of indoor air quality. While humidity is not a pollutant, excess moisture – caused by leaky pipes or standing water – can lead to a host of problems, such as deterioration, decay and mold growth. A humidity level of 70 percent or higher can lead to surface condensation, and high humidity levels on fabrics, such as window treatments and chair covers, can lead to mildew and dust mite infestation. A relative humidity level of between 30 percent and 50 percent is recommended to maximize comfort. Source: epa.gov