7 Tips for Selecting an Indoor Air Quality Services Provider

Selecting the right provider for indoor air quality services is important. Not every company uses the best methods to check for mold, volatile organic compounds, inorganic chemicals, radon, asbestos, and other pollutants. Some businesses use ineffective tactics just to make money. That’s significant because what’s in the air can affect your comfort, energy level, and overall health. 

If you’re searching for an indoor air quality services company, here are some tips.

1. Look For Signs You’re Being Overcharged
2. Check the Company’s Experience
3. Read Customer Reviews
4. Verify It Complies with Health and Safety Standards
5. Research Contractor Certifications/Training
6. Ask About the Technology They Use
7. Know the Air Quality System that You Need

1. Look For Signs You’re Being Overcharged

Unfortunately, not all businesses that provide indoor air quality (IAQ) testing and solutions are trustworthy. You may be being overcharged (or charged for unnecessary services) if the company is pushing:

• Pre-Testing: The contractor insists on overly technical methods to test for mold, such as infrared testing.
• Air Quality Tests with Few Details: Air quality testing requires a scientific approach; if the company specializes in a specific method, it should provide data to show its effectiveness.
• Preventative or Recommended Treatments: If the company is upselling additional treatments on top of delivering services to address your immediate concerns, do more research.
• Unexpectedly Low Prices: Beware of a suspiciously low quote. It’s a sign the company is relying on inferior quality equipment, experimental methods, and an inadequately trained staff.

2. Check the Company’s Experience

The company should have several years of experience in assessing and improving indoor air quality. There must be clear evidence of a good track record. Ask to speak with experts who will consult with you and answer your questions. They should provide guidance based on the specific circumstances you’re dealing with.

An indoor air quality services provider should also have insurance coverage. Insurance covers any damages if something goes wrong during testing, cleaning, or installing an air quality solution. The company should also know how to work with your insurance company and file paperwork if air quality inspections or decontamination are covered under your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy.

3. Read Customer Reviews

You can learn a lot about a company by assessing previous customers’ experiences. Look for reviews and testimonials on the web; positive feedback can instill confidence a business will provide the high-quality service you need. Negative reviews can point to specific grievances a past client had with the company or widespread issues with its services. Additionally, check the reviews of specific air quality equipment before you invest in it.

If you’re looking for the most honest assessment of a contractor’s services, ask a family member, friend, or neighbor if they recommend a contractor they’ve used.

4. Verify It Complies with Health and Safety Standards

The contractor should know the latest Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. While OSHA lacks broader IAQ standards, it oversees standards on ventilation and certain contaminants. Make sure the company knows what contaminants can be most harmful and what acceptable concentrations for each. 

Also, its staff should have personal protective equipment and adhere to other safety precautions. Some decontamination and sanitization treatments involve using chemicals that can be toxic if touched or ingested. Make sure the company follows the proper procedures to clean up residue after treatment. 

5. Research Contractor Certifications/Training

An IAQ specialist must have completed a certification program approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and/or the state they do business in. Also, look for certifications from the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) and experience in Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) air quality assessments.

6. Ask About the Technology They Use

Familiarity with the latest technologies allows the company to address specific air quality concerns in your home or business. Some of the most effective IAQ technologies on the market include High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters. These can trap more than 99.9% of airborne particles. At Sky Heating & Air Conditioning, we can install electronic air cleaners, UV air treatment systems, and whole-house air purification systems as part of our indoor air quality services.

7. Know the Air Quality System that You Need

Before hiring an indoor air quality services company, do your best to assess your needs. Is there lots of dust or pet dander in your home? Are your allergies or asthma symptoms getting worse while indoors? Do you suspect certain air pollutants are present? Answering these questions can help a provider address your concerns. Other ways to determine your requirements include:

• Research Different Air Quality Systems: Knowing the types of equipment available, such as air purifiers, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, high-efficiency HVAC filters, etc. can help you work with your service provider. They can help you further explore the features and functions of each.
• Measure the Size of the Space: The air quality system you choose must be compatible with the square footage of your room or home. A system that is too small won’t clean the air effectively. However, a system that is too large may consume too much energy. Also, check for ENERGY STAR certification before installing a high-efficiency indoor air quality system.
• Look at Equipment Noise Ratings: Depending on the system, it can be too noisy for a bedroom or home office. Compare equipment that has noise ratings provided by the manufacturer and know what types of noise levels are suited for different environments.
• Learn About Maintenance Requirements: All air quality systems need regular maintenance. Some have filters that are easy to access, clean, and replace. Depending on the system, other parts may need replacement over time. The cost and availability of filters and parts are considerations when choosing air quality equipment.

Consult with Sky for Indoor Air Quality Services

At Sky Heating & Air Conditioning, we specialize in a range of indoor air quality solutions. Pollutants can be several times more concentrated in your home than outside. Therefore, it’s important to find an IAQ system that addresses specific requirements. From testing to the installation of one or a combination of air cleaning and purification systems, we ensure your home IAQ needs are met. To learn more about the benefits of indoor air quality testing or request IAQ services in Portland, OR, call (888) 900-2109 today.