Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a term referring to the air quality within and around buildings and structures, especially as it relates to the health and comfort of building occupants. Indoor air quality can be affected by gases, particulates, mold, bacteria, or any mass or energy stressors. Indoor air quality can be improved quickly with the proper treatments; our solutions and services include the installation of air filters, heat recovery ventilators, UV lights, duct cleaning, and other filters.

Good indoor air quality is important for maintaining a healthy and comfortable living or working space. Here are some key points to consider regarding indoor air quality:

1. Importance of Indoor Air Quality: Indoor air quality can directly impact human health and well-being. Poor IAQ can contribute to various health issues, including allergies, asthma, respiratory problems, headaches, fatigue, and more. Additionally, poor IAQ can affect productivity, concentration, and overall comfort levels.

2. Common Indoor Air Pollutants: Indoor air can contain various pollutants, including:

• Particulate Matter: Dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and other fine particles that can be inhaled.
• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Chemicals emitted by certain building materials, furniture, cleaning products, and other sources.
• Biological Contaminants: Mold, bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that can thrive in damp or poorly maintained environments.
• Radon: A naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into buildings from the ground.
• Tobacco Smoke: Secondhand smoke can significantly degrade indoor air quality.

3. Sources of Indoor Air Pollutants: Indoor air pollutants can originate from both indoor and outdoor sources. Common indoor sources include inadequate ventilation, household cleaning products, building materials, carpets, furniture, cooking activities, and personal care products. Outdoor sources include vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, and pollen.

4. Improving Indoor Air Quality:

• Adequate Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in your home or workplace. Open windows when weather permits, use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms and consider installing mechanical ventilation systems.
• Regular Cleaning: Keep your living or working environment clean and free from dust, pet dander, and other allergens. Vacuum regularly with a HEPA filter, dust surfaces, and clean bedding frequently.
• Avoid Smoking: Establish a smoke-free environment indoors and discourage smoking near entrances to prevent the entry of secondhand smoke.
• Control Moisture: Address any sources of moisture, such as leaks or excessive humidity, to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Use dehumidifiers if necessary.
• Use Low VOC Products: Choose building materials, furniture, and cleaning products with low VOC emissions. Look for products labelled as "low VOC" or "environmentally friendly."
• Regular HVAC Maintenance: Maintain and clean your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system regularly to prevent the accumulation of dust and debris. Change filters as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Indoor Plants: Incorporate indoor plants that can help improve air quality by absorbing certain pollutants and releasing oxygen.

5. Professional Assessments: If you have concerns about indoor air quality or suspect specific issues, consider hiring Razor to conduct an indoor air quality assessment. We can identify potential sources of pollution, measure pollutant levels, and provide recommendations for improvement.

Remember, improving indoor air quality is an ongoing effort. Regular maintenance, ventilation, and attention to potential sources of pollution are key to maintaining a healthy indoor environment.

In Saskatchewan, having an efficient furnace is crucial for maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient home. The efficiency of a furnace is typically measured by its Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating. The AFUE rating indicates the percentage of fuel that is converted into usable heat, with higher ratings indicating greater efficiency. Here are some important points to consider regarding furnace efficiency in Saskatchewan:

1. Minimum Efficiency Standards: The minimum AFUE rating for newly installed furnaces in Saskatchewan is regulated by the provincial building codes. As of the knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the minimum standard for residential gas furnaces in Saskatchewan is 92% AFUE. This means that a new furnace must have a minimum efficiency of 92% to be compliant with the building codes.

2. ENERGY STAR® Certification: Look for furnaces that have earned the ENERGY STAR certification. These models meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the Canadian government and can offer significant energy savings compared to standard models. ENERGY STAR certified furnaces typically have AFUE ratings of 95% or higher.

3. Variable-Speed Blower Motors: Furnaces equipped with variable-speed blower motors are more energy-efficient and provide better comfort by adjusting airflow to match the heating demand. These motors operate at lower speeds most of the time, consuming less electricity and reducing energy waste.

4. Zoning Systems: Consider implementing zoning systems in your home, if applicable. Zoning allows you to divide your home into different temperature zones, allowing for better control over heating specific areas. This can help optimize energy usage and provide personalized comfort.

5. Proper Sizing and Installation: It's crucial to ensure that your furnace is properly sized and installed by a qualified HVAC professional. An oversized or undersized furnace can lead to inefficiency, increased energy consumption, and reduced comfort. A professional can assess your home's heating needs and recommend the right furnace size and installation practices.

6. Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your furnace operating efficiently. Schedule annual inspections and tune-ups with a professional technician to clean and inspect the components, check for any issues, and ensure optimal performance. Keeping the furnace clean and well-maintained helps maintain efficiency and can prolong its lifespan.

Remember, while a high-efficiency furnace can provide energy savings, the overall efficiency of your heating system also depends on other factors such as insulation, weather sealing, and proper usage. It's advisable to consult with our professional HVAC technicians at Razor. We can assess your specific needs, recommend suitable options, and ensure compliance with local regulations and codes.

Maintaining your home comfort system, which includes your air conditioning, heating, and ventilation systems, is essential for ensuring optimal performance, energy efficiency, and longevity. Here are some tips to help you maintain your home comfort system:

1. Regular Filter Replacement: Check and replace your air filters regularly. Clogged or dirty filters restrict airflow, reduce system efficiency, and can lead to poor indoor air quality. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for filter replacement frequency or clean reusable filters as recommended.

2. Professional System Inspections: Schedule annual maintenance inspections with a qualified HVAC technician. They can inspect and tune up your system, identify potential issues, clean coils, check refrigerant levels, and ensure proper system operation. Regular maintenance helps prevent breakdowns and keeps your system running efficiently.

3. Keep Outdoor Units Clear: Clear any debris, vegetation, or obstructions around your outdoor air conditioning unit or heat pump. Maintain at least two feet of clearance around the unit to ensure proper airflow and prevent airflow restrictions.

4. Check and Clean Condensate Drain: Regularly inspect and clean the condensate drain line to prevent clogs or blockages. A clogged drain can lead to water damage or system malfunctions.

5. Seal Ductwork: Inspect your ductwork for any leaks or gaps. Seal any leaks with duct sealant or mastic tape to improve energy efficiency and ensure proper airflow.

6. Keep Vents and Registers Clean: Regularly clean and remove any obstructions from vents and registers to maintain proper airflow and maximize system efficiency.

7. Programmable Thermostat: Use a programmable or smart thermostat to set temperature schedules based on your occupancy patterns. This helps optimize energy usage and comfort by adjusting temperatures when you are away or asleep.

8. Monitor Energy Usage: Keep an eye on your energy consumption. If you notice a significant increase in energy usage or if your system is not operating as efficiently as before, it may indicate a problem that requires attention from a professional technician.

9. Follow Manufacturer's Guidelines: Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific maintenance recommendations for your home comfort system. Different systems may have unique requirements, so it's important to follow their guidelines for optimal performance.

10. Stay Informed: Stay up-to-date with the latest industry information, best practices, and energy-saving tips. This can help you make informed decisions and take appropriate steps to maintain your home comfort system effectively.

Remember, if you are unsure or uncomfortable performing any maintenance tasks, it is always best to consult with our professional HVAC technicians at Razor. They have the expertise to ensure your system is properly maintained and operating at its best.

Set the Thermostat Appropriately: Set your thermostat to the highest temperature that is comfortable for you. Each degree lower can significantly increase energy consumption. Aim for a temperature around 24-26 degrees Celsius (75-78 degrees Fahrenheit) for a balance between comfort and energy savings.

Additional tips for maximizing air conditioning efficiency:

• Use a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule. Set it to a higher temperature when you're away from home or sleeping and lower it when you're present.
• Consider using a smart thermostat that can learn your preferences and adjust the temperature accordingly, optimizing energy usage.
• Make use of zoning systems if available. This allows you to cool specific areas or zones of your home rather than cooling the entire space, saving energy.

• Use natural ventilation: Open windows during cooler times of the day or night to let in fresh air and create a cross-breeze. Ceiling fans or portable fans can also help circulate air and create a cooling effect.
• Utilize shading: Close curtains, blinds, or shades during the day to block out direct sunlight and heat. Use light-coloured window coverings that reflect heat instead of absorbing it.
• Minimize heat sources: Turn off unnecessary lights, appliances, and electronics that generate heat. Use energy-efficient lighting options like LED bulbs that produce less heat.
• Insulate and seal your home: Properly insulate your home to prevent cool air from escaping and hot air from entering. Seal any air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork to improve energy efficiency.