8 Tips for Better Indoor Air Quality in the Winter
Unhealthy indoor air quality (IAQ) can cause both short-term and long-term health effects, according to the EPA. Luckily, these issues are preventable by taking some simple measures in your home. Here are eight steps you can today take to improve your indoor air quality this winter.
1. Keep your home clean
Start your spring cleaning early to keep your home sanitary and improve your IAQ this winter. One of the best steps you can take today to improve your indoor air is to remove the dust and debris from around your home. This dust can contain allergens, pet dandruff, and other pollutants that can contaminate the air you are breathing. Common areas in your home, such as rugs, carpets, windowsills, and floorboards, can trap dust and increase symptoms of respiratory issues, such as allergies. Cleaning these areas at least once a week can make a difference in your air quality. Make it a habit to dust and vacuum on a regular basis to sanitize these high concern areas and help you breathe easier at home.
2. Check your air filters
As a part of your cleaning routine, be sure to check your air filters as well. Air filters trap the dust and debris that is released into the air and prevents other outside contaminants from circulating in your home. These filters should be inspected and replaced regularly to ensure they are preventing buildup and working properly. The EPA recommends that homeowners replace their air filters at least every 90 days, or 60 days if you are a pet owner. Replacing your air filters regularly can also reduce unnecessary strain on your HVAC system which can prolong the system’s lifespan.
3. Check the humidity
When the temperature drops, the air becomes dry and humidity levels can impact the air quality of your home. Humidity levels indoors should ideally be kept between 30-50 percent. There are several different methods you can use to keep your humidity levels in your home at a comfortable level. If you are running a humidifier regularly, be sure to add some ventilation to your room by running a fan or opening a window. You can also take simple steps such as running the bathroom fan after a hot shower and using a range hood when cooking on the stove.
If you notice your home is irregularly humid, it may be an issue with your HVAC system. A Chas professional can assess your system to determine if you need to replace your system and provide a free in-home estimate.
4. Let in the fresh air
We are lucky enough to have some of the most beautiful winter weather in Arizona. When the weather is nice, be sure to open up your home to increase the ventilation. Opening your windows at least once a week can help with the ventilation in your home and bring in fresh air from outside. Natural ventilation can help moderate the temperature in your home and dilute the contamination levels of your indoor air.
If it is too cold outside for the windows to be opened, opt for running a fan for an hour each day to help regulate the air flow. This can help with air circulation and maintain a stable temperature in your home.
5. Have your furnace cleaned
If you find yourself using your fireplace or furnace more often during the winter months, you may be releasing more gas and pollutants into your air than you realize. The dust and smoke from the fireplace can escape into to your home which can make it uncomfortable to breath or increase respiratory issues. By regularly cleaning your furnace, you can help decrease these potential issues and prevent unhealthy air quality in your home.
6. Install an air purifier
Upgrading your HVAC system with an air purifier can greatly reduce pollutants in your home to help you breathe easier. Air purifiers help prevent respiratory issues that are commonly associated with allergies, asthma, and other respiratory diseases. These systems are designed to remove airborne particles, neutralize odors, and eliminate germs and bacteria. There are several types of air filtration systems you can utilize in your home, such as ionizing purifiers and ultraviolet radiation purifiers, which each come with their own benefits. If you have questions on the right air purifier for your home, you can contact the qualified technicians at Chas Roberts to help.
7. Avoid fragrant products
When using cleaning products in your home, make sure to opt for non-fragrant or natural products. Although these traditional cleaners may smell fresh, these harsh chemicals can lead to more pollutants being released into the air. Cleaning products such as air fresheners, bleach, detergents, soaps, and sanitizers can be replaced with more natural alternatives. You can identify environmentally friendly products as they typically will have an Ecolabel or Safer Choice Label.
You can also DIY your own natural cleaners with some common household products. A simple solution of four tablespoons baking soda with one quart of warm water, can make an effective and natural kitchen cleaner. Lemon is also a natural deodorizer than can add a fresh scent to your home without the unnecessary toxic chemicals of air fresheners.
8. Get professional maintenance
Regular HVAC maintenance can help prevent many of the concerns that are associated with poor indoor air quality. Chas Roberts offers a 26-point maintenance plan that will keep your home’s air quality at its best and your HVAC systems at peak performance. Not only will our professionals identify potential hazards in your home’s air quality, but we will resolve the issue right away. Routine maintenance is the best way to keep your air clean.
Contact Chas for your HVAC needs
Whether you want more information on keeping your indoor air quality at its best, or want a professional to evaluate your home, Chas Roberts is the one to trust. We have been keeping Arizona families safe, happy, and secure in their homes by providing quality service for more than 75 years. Contact us today for all your HVAC needs.
