Everyone deserves a home that’s a cozy escape from the harsh winds and frigid temperatures that define Midwestern winters. But, while staying warm is the primary concern for most homeowners, ignoring your home’s IAQ (indoor air quality) could lead to a season filled with itchy and dry skin, respiratory issues, sinus problems…you get the picture.
Because we spend more time indoors during colder months, IAQ significantly impacts our overall health and well-being. Fortunately, there are several inexpensive ways to optimize air quality and create a healthier home environment. This article covers everything you need to know about improving IAQ during winter.
Monitor and Optimize Humidity Levels
If there’s another word associated with winter air besides “cold,” it’s “dry.” You may be surprised to learn that the latter has as much (or more) to do with seasonal sickness as the former.
As a general guideline, we recommend homeowners aim to maintain humidity levels between 40% and 60%. If you notice your thermostat shows humidity levels outside this range – and during winter, it’s likely to be below the 40% mark, you may want to explore options like whole-home humidification.
Change HVAC Filters Regularly
Winter is undoubtedly the “busy season” for your HVAC system as it works to meet your home’s heating demands. Because it’s running more frequently, your air filter becomes dirtier much faster than in the spring or fall months.
Let’s talk about air filters. If you ask us, they don’t get the credit they deserve. These valuable components improve IAQ by removing contaminants before air passes through your home’s duct system. But, if you don’t replace it, you could send harmful particles into your living spaces without knowing it.
Changing your air filter is easy, inexpensive, and takes less than a minute. For standard filters, opt for replacement every month. If you’d like a less labor-intensive solution, AprilAire media cabinet filters can last up to a year. In addition, media cabinet filters increase efficiency and reduce energy usage.
Invest in an Air Purifier
For families who are serious about their home’s IAQ, there’s no better solution than an air purification system. Hoock’s proudly sells and installs the Air Scrubber by Aerus. Here’s how it works:
The Air Scrubber uses ActivePure Technology to mimic the same process that the sun uses to cleanse the air we breathe – a process known as photolysis. Just as sunlight creates hydrogen and oxygen-based particles that inactive viruses, bacteria, mold spores, and unwanted gases., ActivePure Technology creates these same molecules. We install it directly into your ductwork, eliminating unwanted pathogens before they circulate through your home.
The bottom line? Air purification makes a significant difference by fixing the problem at the source. Get in touch with a Hoock’s team member today to learn more about your options and the latest industry technology.
Cleaner Home, Cleaner Air
We’re not here to lecture you on why it’s important to clean your home regularly, but it’s still necessary to talk about how your cleaning routine impacts air quality. To illustrate the point, think about your vacuum cleaner.
When you empty it, it’s not all crumbs and dirt. In most cases, the contents are primarily dust, dander, and other tiny particles that have settled on your floors. If they weren’t in the vacuum, they’d eventually circulate throughout your home as they get kicked up by foot traffic.
Regularly sweeping, dusting, and washing blankets and bedsheets dramatically reduces the amount of “debris” hanging out in your home. So next time you complete your cleaning chores, you’re helping everyone in the home breathe a little easier!
Add Indoor Plants (Responsibly)
Many scientific studies speak to the benefits indoor plants have on our physical and mental health. One of the many reasons is that certain indoor plants improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.
Now for a quick disclaimer. Plants can introduce mold to your environment if overwatered, something that’s common among inexperienced plant owners. To avoid this problem, choose low-maintenance options like snake plants or peace lilies and monitor their soil for moisture.
When In Doubt, Schedule Professional HVAC Maintenance
Good indoor air quality starts with a high-performing HVAC system, and the foundation of a high-performing system is a reliable HVAC team. A professional inspection or routine maintenance service gives you confidence that your system is ready for whatever the weather throws your way.
Remember, the best time to identify an issue with your heating system is before it stops working during a sub-freezing night. The expert technicians at Hoock’s Heating and Cooling are here to provide advice, recommendations, and service to keep you and your family cozy all winter.
When You Think Comfort, Think Hoock’s Heating & Cooling
True comfort is more than maintaining a comfortable temperature during extreme weather. We strive to give our customers the peace of mind that comes with knowing their HVAC system is efficient, safe, and reliable year-round.
Whether you need an immediate repair, routine maintenance, or have questions about adding features like zoning or whole-home humidificiation, our experts are here to deliver cost-effective solutions to home and business owners throughout the greater St. Louis area. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.