Maintaining Good Indoor Air Quality London

Indoor Air Quality in London, Ontario: A Complete Guide for Homeowners

Date posted: June 26, 2026

It's estimated that roughly 90% of people in Canada spend their time indoors. Unfortunately indoor air is more concentrated with dust and allergens than the outside world. However, it doesn't have to be this way, because in your home, you're in control. Join us at My Fireplace as we go over how you can improve the air quality in your home.

Improve Ventilation With an HRV or ERV

Stale air, humidity and pollutant build up can be an issue in modern day homes, due to how well homes are sealed now. This is where Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRV) and Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERV) can make a huge difference. Both allow for a continuous exchange of indoor air for fresh outdoor air while recovering the heating or cooling energy you've already paid for. However, which one is right for you?

Heat Recovery Ventilators

As the name suggests, Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRV) transfer heat. HRV's are best suited for colder climates, or for homes that are in need of some extra humidity control. For those harsh winters, this piece of machinery can dry out your indoor air, making it perfect for any London residents who find them selves with this issue every winter.

Energy Recovery Ventilators

Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERV) specialize in heat and moisture transferring, and work best in homes with hot and humid summers, or year-round moisture management in general due to its ability to balance humidity between seasons.

With Canada's wild range of temperatures throughout the year, what you need depends on which humidity problems your house specifically suffers from. If you find yourself in the presence of dry air in the winter seasons, look into investing in an HRV. If you have a problem with condensation or musty basements in the summer, then an ERV is the way to go for you.

See our Lennox HRV options | See our Lennox ERV options

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Vacuum and Furnace

Dust is the delivery vehicle for most indoor allergens and chemicals, including lead residue, flame retardants, pet dander, pollen, and dust mites. Ensuring you have a vacuum without a true HEPA filter is key, as ones without just recirculate harmful particles back into your air instead of trapping them. This same way of thinking can be applied to your furnace as well. A basic 1-inch filter will catch large debris, but that's about it. To get those pesky small particles under control, upgrading to a high-MERV pleated filter, or investing in a whole-home air purification system like the Lennox PureAir is a sure fire way you keep your indoor air clean.

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Get Your Humidity Right

If your homes humidity is too high, it can feed mould and dust mites. Alternatively if you keep it too low, you get dry skin, static, and cracked woodwork, a common complaint once the furnace kicks on for the season. A good method for keeping your humidity under control is by installing whole-home humidifiers and/or dehumidifiers, like Lennox's Healthy Climate line, to keep your home in the 30–50% relative humidity sweet spot year-round. Again, as the names suggests, these units provide air control over your entire home, not just a single room. See our Lennox Healthy Climate Whole Home Dehumidifiers

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Test For Radon

Radon is an odourless and colourless gas that can be found in old and new homes. Radon is currently the second leading cause of lung cancer in the Canada after smoking. The only way to know if you have it in your home is by having a professional come in to test for it.

FAQ:

Do I need an HRV or ERV if I already have central air and a furnace?
Yes, furnaces and air conditioners heat and cool recirculated indoor air, but they don't bring in fresh outdoor air. An HRV or ERV work hand in hand with your HVAC.

Does a furnace filter actually improve indoor air quality?
Yes, but only if it's rated highly enough (MERV 11+) and changed regularly. A whole-home air purification system filters more effectively than a standard filter alone.

How often should I test my home for radon in Ontario?
Health Canada recommends testing every home at least once, and re-testing every 2–5 years or after major renovations, since foundation changes can alter radon entry points.

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When to Bring in a Professional

When it comes to ensuring the air quality in your home is as good as it can be, invest in an HRV or ERV, upgrade your filtrations, install whole home humidifiers and/or dehumidifiers, and have your home tested for radon. DIY steps handle the basics. But mould, persistent humidity swings, elevated radon, or a home that always feels stuffy or stale usually points to a ventilation, humidity, or filtration gap that needs a proper assessment. Our team services HVAC systems across London and St. Thomas and can recommend the right combination of filtration, humidity control, and ventilation. Including whether an HRV or ERV makes more sense for your home. Request a FREE In-Home Consultation Today!‍

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