When winter rolls around in Central Arkansas, we’ll all be grabbing our cozy blankets and warm drinks, and finally have an excuse to stay inside.
As lovely as that sounds, we should all be aware of some hidden threats to our health that will likely circulate in the air we breathe. Believe it or not, during winter, the air inside our homes can be more polluted than the outdoor air!
Sealed windows and limited ventilation may help with heating bills. However, they also trap pollutants and allergens that build up indoors, potentially causing respiratory issues, allergies, and other problems.
Let’s dive into what causes poor indoor air quality in winter and share some simple steps to keep your home’s air fresh and healthy all season.
Why Indoor Air Quality Worsens in Winter
Winter brings unique air quality challenges, both inside and out. We seal our windows and doors as temperatures drop to keep the cold at bay. Unfortunately, this also traps air pollutants inside our homes.
Unlike in warmer months, when a quick window opening can bring in a fresh breeze, winter’s cold air discourages us from ventilating. This lack of airflow causes dust, allergens, and potentially toxic substances to accumulate indoors.
In addition to the lack of ventilation, heating systems can contribute to indoor pollution. Natural gas or kerosene space heaters, wood-burning stoves, and fireplaces may release pollutants like carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide into the air. Without proper ventilation, these pollutants can linger and cause health issues, from headaches and dizziness to respiratory irritation.
If you feel extra congested, fatigued, or dealing with unexplained allergies during the colder months, it could be due to poor indoor air quality. Fortunately, several practical ways exist to reduce pollutants and freshen up your indoor air this winter.
Identify and Reduce Major Sources of Indoor Pollution
Knowing where indoor pollutants come from is the first step toward eliminating them. Here are a few familiar sources of pollution and simple ways to reduce their impact:
Combustion Appliances: Heaters, Fireplaces, and Stoves
Combustion appliances like gas stoves, wood-burning fireplaces, and space heaters are convenient for warmth. The flip side is that they can release harmful gases, including carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide. These pollutants are colorless and odorless, making them difficult to detect without special equipment.
If you rely on a space heater, opt for electric models that don’t produce combustion by-products. When using gas stoves or fireplaces, ensure they’re properly ventilated to direct exhaust outdoors. It’s also essential to have carbon monoxide detectors installed on each floor of your home to alert you to any dangerous levels of this gas.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
VOCs are chemicals that vaporize at room temperature and can be found in everyday household items such as cleaning supplies, paint, furniture, and even air fresheners. Breathing in VOCs can irritate the respiratory system and, over time, have more severe health effects.
Choose low-VOC or non-toxic alternatives when shopping for household products, especially those labeled as green or natural. Limit your use of scented products like candles and air fresheners, which release VOCs. Additionally, avoid home renovation projects involving VOC-emitting materials, like installing new carpets, until warmer months when you can open windows to air out your space.
Moisture and Mold
High humidity levels indoors create an ideal environment for mold growth, which releases spores that can worsen allergies and asthma symptoms. Winter humidity is tricky because our heating systems can dry the air. Still, too much moisture from cooking, showers, or laundry can result in mold.
- Aim to keep your home’s humidity level between 30% and 50%.
- When cooking or bathing, use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to remove excess moisture.
- If condensation appears on windows or pipes, wipe it away promptly. Consider using a dehumidifier to maintain a balanced moisture level.
Improve Ventilation for Fresher Indoor Air
Proper ventilation in your home can reduce the level of indoor pollution. Obviously, when it’s cold outside, you can’t open your windows… however, there are still ways to increase airflow and improve air quality.
Natural Ventilation
One of the simplest ways to freshen indoor air is by letting in a little outdoor air—even in winter. On mild days, crack open a window for just a few minutes to allow fresh air in. This brief burst of outdoor air can help dilute indoor pollutants and improve overall air quality.
Exhaust Fans in Bathrooms and Kitchens
Using exhaust fans in high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens helps prevent the buildup of moisture and contaminants. Pushing this air outside will help your indoor air quality. Run your kitchen exhaust fan while cooking to reduce smoke, grease, and cooking odors. In the bathroom, run the exhaust fan during and after showers to eliminate moisture that can lead to mold growth.
Consider Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs)
HRVs, also known as energy recovery ventilators, are advanced ventilation systems that bring fresh air into the home while maintaining indoor temperatures. These systems are energy-efficient and particularly useful in colder climates, where opening windows may not be feasible.
Clean the Air with Effective Filtration
Air filtration is another powerful way to improve indoor air quality in winter. Not all HVAC systems come with high-grade filters, so upgrading your filtration setup is essential if possible.
Install HEPA Filters
HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are designed to capture even the tiniest particles, including dust, pet dander, and pollen, which can irritate the respiratory system. Installing HEPA filters in your HVAC system or using a portable air purifier with a HEPA filter can make a noticeable difference. Check your HVAC filters regularly and replace them at least every three months or more frequently during heavy usage months. Look for filters with a high Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating, which indicates a greater ability to trap pollutants.
Portable Air Purifiers for Specific Rooms
Some HVAC systems do not support HEPA filters so that an alternative can be a portable air purifier. Using these in high-traffic areas like living rooms and bedrooms can help filter out particulates and make the air easier to breathe.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance Tips for Cleaner Air
Keeping your home clean can prevent pollutants from accumulating and re-entering the air. Regular cleaning of surfaces, carpets, and HVAC systems goes a long way in maintaining air quality.
Dust and Vacuum Regularly
Dust and pet dander are common allergens that settle on surfaces, only to be stirred up with daily activity. When you vacuum regularly, you can reduce these particles on carpets and upholstered furniture.
Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to capture fine particles and prevent them from being recirculated into the air. Dust surfaces weekly with a damp cloth to trap dust particles rather than spreading them around.
Replace Air Filters Frequently
Your HVAC system’s air filter traps dust, allergens, and other particles as air circulates. A clogged filter reduces the system’s efficiency and allows pollutants to linger in the air.
Change your HVAC filter at least every three months, and consider upgrading to a high-MERV-rated filter for optimal filtration.
Professional HVAC Maintenance
An annual HVAC inspection is a worthwhile investment for cleaner indoor air. During winter, Advantage Heating & Air Conditioning can check for issues like leaks, ensure your heating system is running efficiently, and confirm that no pollutants are being introduced from a malfunctioning system.
Why Indoor Air Quality Matters for Your Health
Poor indoor air quality can lead to symptoms like headaches, congestion, coughing, and even fatigue. People with respiratory conditions, allergies, or weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable to indoor pollutants. Long-term exposure to indoor air pollution can also increase the risk of chronic respiratory illnesses and cardiovascular disease.
Taking steps to improve indoor air quality benefits everyone in your home, especially during winter when we’re indoors for extended periods. Better air quality contributes to a healthier, more comfortable living environment. It can help prevent allergy flare-ups, asthma attacks, and other respiratory issues.
Final Thoughts
If you’re concerned about the air quality in your home this winter, Advantage Heating & Air is here to help. From HVAC inspections and filter replacements to advanced ventilation systems, we offer various services to keep your home comfortable and indoor air clean.
Our team of HVAC experts understands the unique needs of homeowners in Wynne, AR, and is dedicated to providing solutions that work for your home and budget. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your air filters, install a new ventilation system, or simply get a winter tune-up for your heating system, we’re just a call away.