Imagine you’re sitting by the fire during the winter but you can’t stop coughing and sneezing. You blame the weather, but it might not be the culprit.

87% of homeowners don’t know the air inside could be worse than the air outside. Dust, dander, and other irritants can keep you from enjoying the most wonderful time of the year.

Read on to learn about ways to improve your indoor air quality.

Use an Air Purifier

Air purifiers are an increasingly popular way to improve indoor air quality. They remove pollutants, irritants, and allergens from the air. Each one has specifications as to what size of room it’s suited to.

You can also buy more than one for individual rooms. Certain types have sensors that adjust their fan speeds as necessary so they don’t waste energy.

Clean the Ducts

Duct cleaning is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. They circulate warm and cool air throughout the household. If they gather dirt, dust, or debris, it’ll go through your house.

Call a local ductwork professional before winter arrives. They can inspect them to make sure they’re sealed and don’t need repairs and clean them out while they’re at it.

Maintain the Furnace

Neglecting furnace maintenance causes it to work harder. This stirs up dirt and pollutants and leads to higher energy bills.

Check for dirt or damage around its most important parts, such as the:

• Filter
• Blower motor
• Air vents
• Ducts
• Exhaust flue

Have the furnace checked by a professional every year. The fall is one of the best times to do it to ensure it can handle the upcoming winter.

Control the Humidity

Maintaining the proper humidity levels leads to better air quality. The benefits include reduced:

• Reduced pollutants
• Reduced respiratory discomfort
• Lower heating and maintenance costs
• Better hair and skin

Excessive humidity increases pollutant levels and the growth of mold, mildew, and dust mites. It also increases your home’s temperature and makes your air conditioner work harder, leading to higher energy bills.

The ideal humidity level is 30-40% in the winter season. Use a humidifier if it goes too low or a dehumidifier if it goes too high. 

Ventilate

In a recent Instagram poll, 60% of respondents said they didn’t open a window in the winter. 40% said they did.

Try letting quality air from outside in for even a few minutes. It pushes pollutants and stale air out while reducing humidity levels and moisture buildup.

You can also look for areas in your home where there may not be enough ventilation. Do you have windows covered in condensation, moldy doorframes, or stuffy art rooms? 

Check the Air Filters

Maintaining the air filters is one of the most often ignored parts of HVAC care. 82% of homeowners don’t do it every month, and 29% never do.

They need to be checked regularly, especially in the winter. This includes seeing if they’re installed properly and replacing them when they get dirty.

Find an Indoor Air Quality Expert 

Improving your indoor air quality in the winter helps you enjoy the season. Use air purifiers, ventilate your home, control humidity,  and get professional HVAC care for the entire system.

A1 Refrigeration & Air Conditioning has a certified and experienced staff ready to serve you. Schedule a service with us today.