When we spend more time inside during the winter months, indoor air quality is more important than ever. Some issues are simple fixes you can address on your own, while others require the help of an HVAC contractor. Here’s a look at making your home’s air more breathable when the season turns cold and dry.   

What Are Some Common Winter Indoor Air Quality Issues?

With the home closed up to keep cold weather out, dust, dirt, and other particles get trapped indoors. Pet dander and combustion fumes from fireplaces or heating systems can also accumulate in the home along with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from chemical cleaners and other products, leading to an environment that can be more polluted than the outdoors.

While you can eradicate some particles with routine cleaning, others may settle in your HVAC system. The air filter will take care of most, but some can recirculate through your home. Since the air is much drier during the winter, particles can travel farther.

Promoting optimal indoor air quality can help your home smell fresher and stay cleaner. Additionally, it’s essential for anyone with allergies or asthma, as they can experience worsening symptoms with exposure to triggers. 

How Can You Enhance Your Indoor Air?

Schedule a Furnace Inspection 

HVAC contractors can clean and inspect your furnace to minimize any debris caught in the system that could otherwise circulate through the ductwork. Schedule an inspection as early in the season as possible to proactively mitigate air quality issues. A fresh air filter upgrade should be implemented at this time.

Purchase Air-Purifying Plants

Certain plants can reduce indoor air pollutants, such as cigarette smoke and organic solvents. While those with allergies may be triggered by floral scents with high pollen concentrations, non-floral specimens like snake plants, Areca palms, and English ivy are good pollution fighters to try.

Consider an Air Purification System

Installed by HVAC contractors, these systems capture contaminants by passing air through a dense web of fine fibers. With HEPA filters, these systems can remove the vast majority of particulate matter.

Use Natural Cleaning Products

Ingredients like ammonia and bleach can trigger allergy symptoms. When possible, look for cleaners with all-natural ingredients and no VOCs, or make your own from household products like baking soda and vinegar.

Whether you have indoor air quality concerns or you’re seeking heating and cooling services, turn to Kevin’s Plumbing & Heating. Specializing in installations, repairs, and air quality solutions, this Archbold, OH, HVAC contractor offers tailored services and top-of-the-line equipment for local homes and businesses. Find out about the company online or call (419) 445-4715 to request an estimate.