Utah launches furnace filter exchange program to improve indoor air quality

SALT LAKE CITY — Utah lawmakers have launched the Furnace Filter Exchange Program trying to lower indoor air pollution. The initiative will provide 100 families on the west side of Salt Lake City with respiratory-safe furnace filters for free.

Led by Dr. Daniel Mendoza, the program aims to address the often-overlooked issue of indoor air quality.

We’re going to exchange the furnace filter with some high-efficiency filters, as well as discuss with the participants the problems of indoor air pollution,” said Mendoza.

“We’re looking for families that have small children that are either diagnosed or suspected to have a respiratory disease because all too often we look out the window, for example, and see an inversion, and are concerned about it, but the reality is that our indoor air could potentially be up to five times worse,” Mendoza said.

Related: University of Utah project aims to protect kids from bad air