Question 1

What causes poor indoor air quality in Calgary homes?

Accepted Answer

Calgary's dry climate and long heating season (furnaces run 6–8 months/year) create specific indoor air quality challenges: low humidity (below 30% RH) from forced-air heating, accumulation of VOCs from building materials and cleaning products, fine particulate matter from wildfire smoke infiltration, carbon monoxide from gas appliances, and biological contaminants (mold, dust mites) that thrive in poorly ventilated homes. Alberta Indoor Comfort tests for all of these.

Question 2

How do I test indoor air quality in my Calgary home?

Accepted Answer

Alberta Indoor Comfort performs a whole-home indoor air quality assessment using calibrated instruments that measure PM2.5 particulates, VOCs, CO levels, CO2 (a proxy for ventilation adequacy), temperature, and relative humidity. We test each major zone of the home and provide a written report with findings and recommended improvements. Book online or call (587) 792-1456.

Question 3

Can a heat recovery ventilator (HRV) improve indoor air quality?

Accepted Answer

Yes. An HRV continuously exchanges stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air while recovering 70–80% of the heat — preventing the energy penalty of simply opening a window in a Calgary winter. HRVs reduce CO2 buildup, dilute VOCs, and lower biological contaminant levels. They are the single most effective mechanical improvement for chronically poor indoor air quality in tightly built Calgary homes.

Question 4

Do I need a whole-home humidifier in Calgary?

Accepted Answer

Most Calgary homes benefit from whole-home humidification. Forced-air heating drops indoor relative humidity to 15–25% in winter — well below the recommended 30–50% range. Low humidity causes respiratory irritation, static electricity, wood floor gaps, and increased susceptibility to airborne viruses. A whole-home bypass or steam humidifier, professionally installed and sized to your HVAC system, is the most efficient solution.

Question 5

What is a PM2.5 reading and should I be concerned?

Accepted Answer

PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter smaller than 2.5 microns — small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs. Health Canada considers indoor PM2.5 above 10 µg/m³ (24-hour average) a concern. During Calgary wildfire smoke events, outdoor PM2.5 regularly exceeds 150 µg/m³ and infiltrates homes through normal air exchange. An Alberta Indoor Comfort air quality test will measure your actual PM2.5 levels and recommend filtration or air purification if elevated.

Indoor Air Quality Testing Calgary | Air Quality Assessment | Alberta Indoor Comfort

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