Indoor Air Quality: Why Clean Filters Matter More Than Most People Realize

Indoor air quality is one of those things people only think about when something is wrong. Stale office air, headaches, constant dust, allergies, weird smells, people getting sick more often than usual, you name it. But most of the time, the real problem is simple. It starts with neglected HVAC filters and outdated air circulation systems.

Back when I worked in the equipment rental industry, I had to learn pretty much everything about HEPA air scrubbers, negative air machines, and HVAC filtration. It ended up blending perfectly with my health and safety background, and it showed me how overlooked indoor air quality is in both workplaces and homes.

HEPA filtration, MERV ratings, filter changes, air exchanges per hour. These aren’t just technical terms. They directly affect health, productivity, and even WorkSafeBC compliance in some industries.

Why Filter Replacement Actually Matters

Every manufacturer gives recommended replacement intervals. Most people treat those like a polite suggestion. The problem is that filters load up faster depending on:

• dust levels

• foot traffic

• pets

• building age

• nearby construction

• seasonal allergens

Once the filter is clogged, your system starts struggling. Airflow drops, your energy bill climbs, and the air quality tanks.

Older HVAC Systems Struggle the Most

Older commercial buildings and homes were never designed to meet today’s required air changes per hour (ACH). Many systems have been grandfathered in because replacing them would cost people a fortune. So if you’re running an older system, your best defense is:

• strict filter replacement

• additional HEPA air purification units

• regular HVAC inspections

• improving fresh-air intake wherever possible

The newer systems are built to meet modern ACH requirements, but they still need clean filters to function properly.

What I Do in My Own Home

I run multiple HEPA filtration units. I usually grab them when they go on sale, because here’s the funny part. The machine itself is about $100, but the replacement filters are usually $40 to $60 each. And you’ll go through them a couple times a year if you actually use the unit properly.

They’re worth it though. Especially if you have allergies, kids, pets, or live on Vancouver Island where the humidity and pollen like to team up on you.

Air Quality and Allergens Go Hand in Hand

Dust, pollen, mould spores, and pet dander float around constantly. Good filtration helps, but so does:

• cracking your windows to get fresh air in

• using HEPA filtration in bedrooms or high-traffic areas

• keeping humidity in a healthy range (more on that in the next post)

Humidity control, allergens, and filtration all tie together, and I’ll dig into that in the next article.

If your home or workplace is dealing with stale air, dust problems, headaches, or ongoing indoor air quality issues, I offer a free review of your current health and safety program and/or space. I can help you identify the cause, improve comfort, and reduce risks for your team.