How to Improve Indoor Air Quality During Winter: A Complete Guide

As winter sets in and we crank up the heat to get our homes cozy and ready for the cold weather, our Rhode Island home’s indoor air quality can suffer. The combination of closed windows, the furnace cranked up, and stale air and allergens can create discomfort. The good news is there are plenty of proactive steps you can take to get the air quality in your home back on track and keep your home feeling fresh and healthy all season long. The team at Martel Plumbing and Heating has the pro tips you need to improve your air quality and breathe easier this winter.

Common Winter Air Quality Issues

Winter air quality issues are common for just about every homeowner and can stem from several factors, including: 

1) Dry Air

Heating systems are big culprits for stripping the moisture out of the air and irritating your skin, drying out your nasal passages, and causing respiratory irritations. Your partner may even tell you that you’re snoring more than normal. Beyond how it impacts your health and body, the dry air can damage wood furniture and floors. 

2) Allergens and Dust

When you shut the windows tightly to keep out the cold and improve the energy efficiency in your home, you’re also keeping in the pet dander, allergens, dust, and dirt. All of these particles can trigger allergies and asthma and make your home feel less than inviting. 

3) Stale Air

When you limit the ventilation in your home, it also becomes stale. It doesn’t take long for the air to feel stale and irritating. Over time, carbon dioxide and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can also build up and put your health at risk.

4) Pollutants from Heating Systems

When you don’t properly maintain your heating system, you risk releasing harmful pollutants into the air. Everything from carbon monoxide to dust and debris can make their way into your home and cause breathing issues and harm your and your family’s health. 

Winter Air Quality Tips for a Healthier Home

Getting a handle on winter air quality issues doesn’t need to be complicated with these tips for fresher, cleaner air: 

1. Use a Humidifier

Regularly using a humidifier in your home adds the moisture you need back into your air. It helps alleviate dryness and makes your environment more comfortable. Try to keep your indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% for optimal comfort and health.

2. Clean or Replace Air Filters Regularly

When your home’s HVAC filters get dirty, they quickly circulate dust and allergens throughout your home. Check your filters monthly and replace them as needed, especially during periods of heavy use, like the middle of winter. We can help with Lincoln, RI AC maintenance during the summer as well.

3. Schedule Regular HVAC Inspections

Routine HVAC maintenance keeps your heating system running as efficiently as possible and improves your indoor air quality. The team at Martel Plumbing & Heating offers all the Providence HVAC services you need to keep your system in top working order. We’ll also test your system, change your air filters, and stay ahead of repairs.

4. Invest in an Air Purification System

A home air purification system helps capture allergens, bacteria, and even viruses to improve your indoor air quality. Consider options like HEPA filters or UV air purifiers for added protection against harmful contaminants. Give the team at Martell Plumbing & Heating a call and we’ll recommend an air purification system that helps keep you and your home healthier.

5. Ventilate Your Home Safely

Opening up your windows isn’t always a feasible option during the winter months, but you can still improve ventilation with fans, kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans, or cracking windows in unused rooms on milder days.Staying on top of ventilation helps reduce stale air while preventing pollution buildup. 

6. Control Indoor Allergens

Stay on top of indoor allergens by vacuuming frequently with a HEPA filter. You should also wash your bedding in hot water at least once a week to reduce dust mites and allergens from circulating throughout your home. While you’re at it, declutter your home to minimize dust and keep your pets well-groomed to reduce unwanted dander and fur.

7. Schedule Air Duct Cleaning

Your air ducts are a breeding ground for allergens, mold, mildew, and dust collection. Over time, dirty ducts can dramatically reduce your indoor air quality. Call the team at Martel Plumbing & Heating for air duct cleaning to help remove contaminants and improve airflow. Beyond improving your air quality, periodic duct cleaning can also maximize your HVAC efficiency and reduce your energy bills.

8. Consider Greenery

Adding more houseplants to your home helps purify your indoor air naturally and adds more peace and tranquility to your home. Choose spider plants, peace lilies, and snake plants that are known for their air-cleaning properties and are relatively easy to take care of.

Call Martel Plumbing & Heating for All Your Indoor Air Quality Needs

The colder winter doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your home’s air quality. Following a few simple steps and scheduling regular Providence HVAC maintenance can help purify your air, improve your HVAC efficiency, and lower your energy bills. Call the team at Martel Plumbing & Heating today and we’ll help you breathe easier all season long.