With colder temperatures and increased indoor living, winter can take its toll on the quality of air in your home. Winter generally means you’ll spend a lot more time inside, so it’s important to make sure the air you breathe is clean and fresh. Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) may trigger allergies, asthma, and other forms of respiratory discomfort. Fortunately, there are several things you can do that help make sure you have healthy indoor air quality all winter.
Why Indoor Air Quality Matters
Indoors or out, the quality of the air you breathe is critical to your overall health. In winter, homes are shut tight against the cold. Dust, allergens, and moisture can be trapped inside, making the air in your home stuffier and less clean. The air can also dry out to such an extent that it irritates the skin, throat, and nose.
How to Better Your Home’s Indoor Air Quality in Winter
Simple things you can do start with changing air filters regularly. HVAC systems use their filters to capture dust, pollen, and other types of particles. These clog up with time and lose their effectiveness. Replace them every one to three months for system efficiency and better breathing.
Other ways of enhancing indoor air quality involve regulating your home’s humidity levels. If there is too little humidity, you can experience dry conditions, and too much humidity can create a mold or mildew problem in your home. A humidifier or dehumidifier can help keep the relative humidity in your home at a desirable 30% to 50% year-round.
You should also pay attention to ventilation. Even in winter, you need proper airflow to help remove pollutants from your home. Consider using exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom or opening windows for a few minutes each day to allow fresh air to circulate. Ventilation also helps reduce harmful chemicals that come from cleaning products, cooking, and even furniture.
Invest in Air Purifiers
If you’re concerned about your IAQ, an air purifier can be a good investment. These devices remove particles like dust, pollen, and pet dander from the air, helping to improve air quality. Some air purifiers even have HEPA filters, which are designed to capture small particles that may cause breathing issues. Choose one that fits the size of your space well to get the best results.
Keep Your Home’s Air Quality Safe This Winter
Being healthy this winter starts with being proactive about your home’s indoor air quality. Taking small steps in replacing the filters, using air purifiers, and maintaining HVAC systems will go a long way toward keeping the inside of the home fresh and healthy.
If you need indoor air quality services in Magnolia, TX or the surrounding area, let our professionals at Cover HVAC help!
