As the chill of winter continues to descend, homeowners are spending more time indoors, where the air quality is often significantly worse than outside. This is exacerbated by living spaces tightly sealed against the cold, trapping allergens and pollutants. Residential air conditioning service professionals from Shackelford Heating & Cooling understand this well. Learn how to improve your indoor air quality (IAQ) problems from one of the best local heating and air conditioning contractors.
Understanding the Common Indoor Pollutants
During winter, various sources such as combustion appliances, building materials and household cleaning products can release dangerous levels of pollutants. Wood-burning stoves, fireplaces and other fuel-burning appliances need regular maintenance to prevent emissions of harmful particles. Knowing the common household pollutants – VOCs, mold, dust mites, pollen and pet dander is crucial. These can contribute to immediate health issues like headaches and dizziness and long-term effects, including respiratory diseases and cancer.
Strategies to Improve Home Ventilation
Proper ventilation is a cornerstone of good indoor air quality, yet most heating systems do not bring fresh air indoors. In areas where the winters can be particularly harsh, it’s important to strike a balance between keeping warm and maintaining air circulation. Simple actions such as opening doors and windows when the weather permits and more technical solutions involving heating system checks by residential heating services contractors can significantly enhance air quality.
The Role of In-Duct Air Purifiers
Air purifiers installed inside the ductwork can help capture and eliminate allergens, bacteria and viruses around the clock. These indoor air quality solutions, often equipped with either HEPA or activated carbon filters, help reduce the level of particulate matter and gaseous pollutants in your home, making your indoor environment healthier during the winter months.
Regular Maintenance and Cleaning
Step up your cleaning routine to combat the buildup of pollutants. Regular dusting, vacuuming with HEPA filters and changing furnace filters frequently can prevent recirculation of contaminants. HVAC professionals can assist with duct cleaning and ensuring that your heating system is functioning efficiently.
Testing for Radon and Carbon Monoxide
Radon and carbon monoxide, two colorless and odorless gases, can pose significant threats to indoor air quality. Radon testing and carbon monoxide detectors are vital tools any homeowner can take advantage of this winter.
At Shackelford Heating & Cooling, we stand ready to help you navigate these wintertime woes with a range of solutions tailored to improve indoor air quality. For top-notch residential air conditioning service and heating installations, call us today at (608) 530-0667, or fill out this contact form to get started.
