Winter is a time of the year when most homeowners close windows, stay indoors for longer periods, and heat their homes for most of the day. All this to keep warm and comfortable in cold conditions. But a side effect is that air pollutants can be more concentrated inside than outside, lowering indoor air quality. Poor indoor air can cause discomfort, trouble sleeping, and even breathing problems. Fortunately, there are some simple things people can do to breathe better indoors in winter.
Salmon HVAC makes it easier to have quality air indoors during winter through its heating and air system services. Homeowners can avoid sacrificing comfort or air quality when winter hits.
Why Indoor Air Quality Is Important in Winter
Indoor air quality is a general term for how comfortable and healthy the air in a home is to breathe. In winter, homes are better sealed to prevent heat from escaping. This lack of ventilation limits the amount of fresh air coming in and the buildup of pollutants from dust, dander, moisture, and other sources.
Forced-air heating systems can exacerbate the problem by blowing these airborne particles through the home if filters or other components are not maintained regularly.
Studies have repeatedly found that indoor air is often more polluted than outdoor air. In the winter, the first suspected cause of symptoms like headaches, dry throat or mouth, fatigue, or allergy and asthma flare-ups should be poor indoor air quality. Improving the air people breathe inside can help respiratory health and overall well-being when they are spending more time indoors.
Sources of Indoor Air Pollution
Indoor air pollution can come from a variety of sources. Dust, pet dander, mold spores, pollen, and other allergens easily accumulate in homes that have limited ventilation in winter. Volatile organic compounds from household cleaners, paints, adhesives, fragrances, and other products can also release into the air and linger indoors.
The heating systems themselves can also be a source if filters, vents, or ductwork are dirty. In addition, moisture from cooking, showering, and dry winter air itself can create the ideal conditions for mold growth. By identifying and addressing these sources, people can help improve their air quality in winter.
Ventilation During Cold Weather
Ventilation, or air exchange with the outside, is one of the simplest ways to improve indoor air quality. But, of course, in winter, opening windows is not a practical solution for very long. Kitchens and bathrooms tend to have higher humidity and produce more odors or particulate that require additional ventilation, especially in homes without mechanical ventilation systems.
Exhaust fans can help, particularly if they are run during and after cooking and bathing. On the other hand, homes with mechanical ventilation systems such as heat recovery ventilators can use these to increase ventilation. These systems are especially helpful in winter because they allow fresh air to be brought in while retaining most of the heat indoors, improving air quality without losing efficiency.
Heating Systems
Heating systems like furnaces and heat pumps recirculate the air inside to warm the home. These systems are responsible for most of the airflow in the average home. If they are not well maintained, they can distribute dust and allergens around the home.
Filters are a particular area of concern. Dirty or old filters allow particles to escape instead of being captured by the HVAC system. Maintenance of heating systems, including changing filters, cleaning, and inspecting them, can help ensure clean and efficient airflow.
Air Filters and Purifiers
Air filtration is another of the best ways to improve air quality indoors. Filters with a higher MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) rating will capture smaller particles such as dust, pollen, and pet dander.
Replacing filters regularly, especially every 1 to 3 months during winter, is important to keep these systems running well. Air purifiers are another solution for air filtration. People can choose portable units or systems that cover the entire home. HEPA filtration is effective for removing most airborne particles, while activated carbon filtration can also help absorb odors and chemical pollutants.
Humidity Control
Humidity is another factor to consider for winter indoor air quality. On the one hand, too little humidity can lead to dry eyes, skin, and sinus irritation. At the other extreme, too much moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth. Maintaining an indoor humidity level between 30% and 50% is ideal for comfort and health.
Humidifiers can be beneficial during winter when humidity is low. Monitoring indoor humidity with a hygrometer is essential to know when it is necessary to take action to address either high or low humidity. Proper humidity also helps heating efficiency.
Natural Indoor Air Quality Solutions
Indoor plants are another natural way to help support better air quality in homes. Certain plants absorb some airborne toxins while releasing oxygen and other compounds that help freshen indoor air.
Plants also help naturally moderate humidity levels in the home. In addition to plants, using natural essential oils, vinegar cleaners, simmered citrus, or herbs can also help deodorize indoor spaces without contributing to air pollution.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is one of the most important keys to better indoor air quality. Checking HVAC system components, replacing filters, and making sure vents are not blocked prevents dust and allergen buildup. Homeowners can have their systems inspected to help ensure efficient and safe operation by HVAC professionals.
Salmon HVAC can help with both heating and air system services that can help improve air circulation, filtration, and system performance. Proper care can prevent indoor air problems and help keep homes comfortable indoors.
Conclusion
Improving indoor air quality during the winter months requires a combination of good ventilation, filtration, humidity control, and heating system maintenance. Simple changes can have a big impact on comfort and health when homes are sealed up against the cold. Homeowners can enjoy a healthier and more comfortable winter indoors by putting an emphasis on clean air and reliable HVAC systems.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why does indoor air quality get worse in winter?
The combination of closed windows, less ventilation, and more time heating the home allow air pollutants to become more concentrated indoors.
How often should HVAC filters be replaced in winter?
HVAC filters should be checked monthly and replaced every 1 to 3 months during winter, depending on the household and system use.
Can heating systems affect indoor air quality?
Yes. Dirty filters, ducts, or other system components can help recirculate dust and allergens throughout the home.
Is a humidifier helpful during winter?
Yes. Proper humidity control can help reduce dryness while preventing mold growth.
Do air purifiers really help in winter?
Air purifiers with HEPA filters can significantly reduce airborne particles, especially when windows are closed for long periods.
