As winter settles in Collinsville, IL, we find ourselves spending more time indoors to stay cozy and warm. However, the colder season brings unique challenges to indoor air quality (IAQ), often leading to an accumulation of pollutants that affect both comfort and health. At Polar, your local experts in plumbing, heating, and cooling, we understand how winter can impact IAQ and are here to provide practical solutions for maintaining a fresh and comfortable home environment. Let’s dive into the main reasons winter can worsen indoor air quality and explore preventative measures to keep your home’s air safe, healthy, and comfortable.
Reduced Ventilation from Closed Windows and Doors
During the winter, we naturally keep our windows and doors closed to retain warmth. This reduced ventilation means that the stale indoor air, which could contain pollutants like dust, allergens, and pet dander, has nowhere to escape. Without fresh outdoor air cycling through, indoor contaminants can build up, contributing to a musty environment and potential respiratory irritations.
Solution: One effective way to improve ventilation is to utilize exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens. These fans help expel stale air and introduce a limited amount of fresh air into the home. Another excellent solution is to use an energy recovery ventilator (ERV), which brings fresh outdoor air inside while minimizing heat loss. ERVs can be especially effective for improving winter IAQ, as they maintain indoor temperatures and humidity levels.
Increased Use of Heaters and Fireplaces
During winter, we rely heavily on heating systems and fireplaces to keep warm. However, gas and wood-burning heating systems can introduce carbon monoxide, soot, and other pollutants into the air if not properly maintained. Even central heating systems can dry out indoor air, creating an uncomfortable and unhealthy environment by irritating respiratory systems and drying out skin and mucous membranes.
Solution: To counteract the effects of heating systems, invest in a high-quality air filter. Look for HEPA filters or filters with a high MERV rating, which can trap tiny particles and pollutants. Additionally, be sure to have heating systems inspected and cleaned annually by a professional, like the team at Polar to ensure safe operation. For those with fireplaces, regular chimney cleaning is essential to reduce pollutant emissions. Humidifiers can also be beneficial in counteracting the dryness caused by heating systems, keeping humidity levels balanced and comfortable.
Increased Indoor Contaminants from Household Activities
With colder weather keeping us indoors, activities like cooking, cleaning, and even certain hobbies can lead to a rise in indoor air contaminants. For example, cooking releases smoke, grease particles, and fumes, while cleaning agents can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Combined, these can contribute to poor IAQ if left unaddressed.
Solution: Simple changes can help reduce these contaminants. Use the kitchen’s range hood whenever cooking to capture smoke and grease particles. Opt for non-toxic, low-VOC cleaning products to limit the release of harmful fumes. Another helpful tip is to add air-purifying houseplants. Plants like spider plants, peace lilies, and Boston ferns act as natural air filters, absorbing pollutants and releasing clean oxygen into the air. For added efficiency, consider using portable air purifiers with HEPA filters in high-use rooms.
Inadequate Humidity Control
Winter air tends to be very dry, which can lower indoor humidity to uncomfortable and unhealthy levels. Low humidity can lead to dry skin, irritated respiratory passages, and an increased risk of respiratory infections. Furthermore, dry air can cause furniture to crack and wood floors to warp over time, adding to home maintenance issues.
Solution: Maintaining proper indoor humidity is essential for a healthy and comfortable living environment. Using a humidifier can help keep your indoor air within the optimal range of 30-50% humidity. Whole-home humidifiers, which can be integrated into your HVAC system, provide consistent moisture levels throughout the home. For best results, regularly clean your humidifier to prevent mold or bacteria growth, which can counteract its benefits. A hygrometer can be an inexpensive yet effective tool to monitor indoor humidity levels, helping you make necessary adjustments.
Higher Concentrations of Dust and Allergens
When windows stay shut, and heating systems circulate air, dust and allergens tend to accumulate more quickly during the winter. Dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens settle on furniture and in carpeting, contributing to respiratory issues, allergies, and overall discomfort. Without regular cleaning and air circulation, these irritants can worsen IAQ and make your home feel less clean and inviting.
Solution: Dusting surfaces, vacuuming carpets, and washing bedding regularly are essential steps in controlling indoor dust. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to capture even the smallest dust particles. Additionally, replace your HVAC system’s air filter regularly—every 1 to 3 months, depending on usage and filter quality. If allergies are an issue, consider using anti-allergen covers on bedding and furniture. Reducing clutter can also minimize dust accumulation, making it easier to keep surfaces clean. For more helpful tips, contact Polar today!
Let Polar Improve the Air Quality of Your Home
Winter can bring a unique set of indoor air quality challenges that impact your home’s comfort and safety. From closed windows and increased heating to higher dust levels, each factor can contribute to stagnant, polluted indoor air. By taking preventative steps such as improving ventilation, using effective air filters, controlling humidity, and maintaining a clean environment, you can enjoy a healthier, more comfortable winter indoors.
At Polar, we are committed to helping Collinsville, IL, homeowners create safe and comfortable living spaces, even during the toughest seasons. Don’t let winter indoor air quality issues disrupt your home. Call our team today at 618.772.7007 for expert HVAC services, from seasonal tune-ups to installing the latest IAQ solutions. Let’s work together to keep your indoor air fresh, clean, and enjoyable all winter long!
