Air-quality Solutions
Air-quality Solutions | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Charleston
Salt air, high humidity, and year-round pollen can make indoor life in Charleston feel stuffy, but it doesn’t have to. HEP’s certified technicians bring decades of local experience to ensure every breath you take at home is crisp, clean, and conditioned. From historic downtown homes to brand-new builds on the islands, we tailor our systems to the Lowcountry’s unique climate—so you can close your doors to the heat, not to fresh air.
Our team designs, installs, and maintains cutting-edge solutions that boost ventilation and air quality while keeping energy bills in check. Energy-recovery ventilators, hospital-grade HEPA filtration, UV-C light purification, and smart, humidity-balanced thermostats all work together to whisk away contaminants and deliver a healthier, more comfortable living space. Ready to feel the difference every time you walk through the door? Call HEP today and let Charleston’s trusted indoor-air experts clear the air for good.
FAQs
Why is indoor air quality such a concern in Charleston’s humid climate?
Charleston’s coastal location means high humidity for much of the year. Excess moisture encourages mold, mildew, and dust-mite growth inside homes. When these biological pollutants circulate through your HVAC system, they can aggravate allergies, asthma, and other respiratory issues. An integrated air-quality solution—combining proper ventilation, whole-home dehumidification, and advanced filtration—removes excess moisture and contaminants, helping your family breathe easier year-round.
What types of air filtration systems do you recommend for reducing allergens and pollutants?
We typically recommend a multi-stage approach: 1. High-MERV Pleated Filters (MERV 11–13) in the air handler capture fine particulates like pollen, pet dander, and dust down to 1–3 microns. 2. HEPA Bypass Units for homeowners with severe allergies capture 99.97 % of particles as small as 0.3 microns without restricting airflow in the main ductwork. 3. Activated Carbon or Charcoal Filters neutralize odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cleaning chemicals, paints, and cooking. 4. Optional UV-C lights installed near the evaporator coil inactivate airborne bacteria, viruses, and mold spores before they recirculate through your living space.
How does a whole-home dehumidifier integrate with my existing HVAC system?
A ducted whole-home dehumidifier is installed in parallel with your central HVAC ductwork. It draws warm, moist return air, removes the moisture over a chilled coil, and then sends the drier air back into the supply plenum or directly into large living areas. The unit operates independently of the air conditioner, so it can remove humidity even when you don’t need cooling. This lowers indoor relative humidity to the ideal 45–50 %, reducing mold growth, improving comfort, and allowing you to set the thermostat a few degrees higher without feeling sticky—thereby saving energy.
What ventilation options do you offer for historic Charleston homes that lack modern ductwork?
For homes without existing duct runs, we often install Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) or Compact Ductless Heat-Recovery Ventilators (HRVs). These units: • Bring in a controlled amount of fresh outdoor air. • Exhaust stale indoor air. • Transfer heat and humidity between the airstreams to maintain comfort and minimize energy losses. Slim-profile duct kits can be routed through closets or attic spaces to keep the aesthetics of historic properties intact while delivering the fresh-air exchange required by modern building codes.
Can smart thermostats and IAQ monitors help maintain better air quality?
Absolutely. Many smart thermostats pair with indoor air-quality sensors that monitor temperature, humidity, and even VOC levels. When the sensor detects high humidity or pollutant spikes, it can automatically: • Activate your dehumidifier or ERV. • Turn on the HVAC fan to circulate air through filters. • Send alerts to your phone so you can open windows or schedule maintenance. This real-time feedback loop ensures your IAQ equipment runs only when necessary, improving air quality and lowering energy costs.
How often should I schedule maintenance for my HVAC and IAQ equipment in Charleston?
Because of Charleston’s salty air and humidity, we recommend: • Bi-annual HVAC tune-ups (spring and fall) to clean coils, check refrigerant, and verify airflow. • Filter replacements every 60–90 days for standard pleated filters, monthly for high-MERV filters in homes with pets or allergies. • UV-C lamp replacement every 12–18 months. • Whole-home dehumidifier and ERV/HRV inspections annually to clean condensate lines, check fan motors, and sanitize air cores. Regular maintenance optimizes performance, prevents mold buildup, and protects manufacturer warranties.