As the days get colder and the nights get longer, many of us retreat to the comfort of the indoors, sealing up all of the windows and doors to keep out any trace of Old Man Winter. But that lack of fresh air can actually be detrimental to your indoor air quality. Stale air that doesn’t get enough ventilation or circulation can become dry, dusty, and difficult to breathe, and might even lead to respiratory problems.
While a well-insulated home is important for efficient heating and cooling, you also want your HVAC system to give you the best air quality possible. Here are three ways you can breathe a little easier this winter without sacrificing the comfort of your home.
- Check and Change Filters
The filters in your system are the first line of defense for keeping dust and debris from circulating in your indoor air. Regularly changing your HVAC air filters will not only keep your system clean, it will also help it run better. EnergyStar recommends replacing all HVAC filters (heating and AC) every one to three months, depending on how much and how often they get used.
- Humidify
The dry winter air can be particularly harsh in Michigan, so investing in a whole-house humidifier system can help improve air quality for everyone in your home. Alternatively, you can use individual room humidifiers, which are particularly useful in bedrooms to make nighttime breathing more comfortable.
- Stay Clean
One of the best ways to reduce dust and pollutants in your home is to clean regularly. When vacuuming, be sure to use a HEPA filter to ensure that dust is actually collected instead of spread around. On the other hand, if you’re using harsh chemicals to clean, be sure to do so in a well-ventilated area. Crack the windows when using any cleaning products.
Surviving through a Michigan winter is hard enough without having to worry about your air quality. Keep your system filtered, humidified, and clean all season long for a happy home and an even happier set of lungs. For more information about what you can do to improve your indoor air quality, call us at Hager Fox today for an air testing or inspection.
