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As the chill of the winter months sets in, homes and businesses alike are sealing up tight to stay warm. While this does wonders for energy efficiency, it can wreak havoc on your indoor air quality (IAQ). In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the necessary steps to maintain your indoor air quality during the colder season.
The first line of defense against poor IAQ is understanding and controlling the source of your pollutants. Furnaces, wood stoves and other combustion appliances can emit carbon monoxide and other toxins. Ensure that your devices are examined and maintained by professionals to mitigate the risk. Should you require heater repair or air conditioner service, it’s critical not to postpone it. A well-functioning HVAC system greatly contributes to a healthier indoor environment.
Adequate ventilation can dilute the buildup of indoor air contaminants. On milder days, the simple act of opening a window can help exchange stale indoor air for fresh outdoor air—even if just for a short time. However, in the depths of winter when this isn’t possible, consider an energy-recovery ventilator (ERV) as a means to maintain your indoor air quality without eroding energy efficiency. ERVs exchange the energy captured from the indoor air being vented out with the fresh, outdoor air that’s flowing in, ensuring minimal loss of warmth and maintaining air quality.
Dust, debris, and contaminants have fewer avenues to escape in winter, causing them to accumulate in your HVAC system’s air ducts. Consider scheduling a professional air duct cleaning service to remove buildup and improve airflow. Regularly replacing furnace and air conditioner filters is also imperative. A HEPA filter, in particular, can capture a significant number of particulates, helping alleviate the load on your HVAC system and ensuring that the air circulating in your space is as clean as possible.
Dry indoor air can aggravate respiratory conditions and facilitate the spread of viruses into your home. With a whole-home humidifier, you can maintain a comfortable humidity level, enhancing comfort and IAQ. However, caution is necessary—too much humidity can lead to mold and mildew. It’s a balance that needs to be struck; the typical sweet spot for indoor humidity is between 30% and 50%.
Incorporating air purifiers with HEPA filters adds an extra layer of pollutant-trapping power to your home’s defense system. This is particularly beneficial in times when opening windows isn’t practical. Consider the size of the space and the specific needs of your household when selecting an air purifier for maximum effectiveness.
Regular HVAC system check-ups, ideally before the onset of the cold weather, can preempt issues that negatively impact your IAQ. Consider scheduling furnace repair and maintenance services annually to ensure your system is not contributing to IAQ problems. A well-maintained system operates more efficiently, leading to cleaner air and potentially lower heating costs.
Don’t compromise on your indoor air quality. For expert assistance on your HVAC system or with your heater and AC repair needs, Mechanical Technologies is the expert to call. We’re dedicated to keeping the air in your home or workspace clean and comfortable all year round. Call us at (915) 544-1550 or visit our contact page to schedule an appointment.
