Financing3 Indoor Air Quality Tips for Winter
As the colder temperatures and snow arrive, and the blankets and sweaters come out, a hidden adversary might be lurking inside your home: poor winter indoor air quality (IAQ).
Carrier Cooling Center can guide you along either route and help you attain the indoor air quality your loved ones deserve. Our network of Carrier Factory Authorized Dealers is here to help homeowners and businesses in Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, and Texas.
Click our Find A Dealer to get started on your journey!
3 Ways in the Winter to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality
An Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) study found the majority of Americans spend about 90 percent of their day indoors. The same study also found “levels of about a dozen common organic pollutants to be 2 to 5 times higher inside homes than outside.”.
Carrier Cooling Center is here to help you breathe easy all season long. Let’s combat winter’s IAQ woes with these three simple tips:
1. Breathe in Fresh Air—Breathe Out Pollutants
- Embrace the chill: Don’t let winter discourage you from opening your windows! Even short bursts of fresh air can significantly dilute indoor pollutants. Aim for a few minutes of open windows several times a day, weather permitting.
- Upgrade your air filtration: Your HVAC system’s filter plays a crucial role, but even the best ones have limitations. Consider high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters that capture even the tiniest nasties. Always check your manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure your filter is compatible with your system.
- Go greener: Houseplants aren’t just decorative; they act as tiny air purifiers, absorbing toxins and releasing oxygen. You can start with low-maintenance varieties like Spider Plants and Snake Plants.
2. Eliminate Dry Winter Air
- Humidify your home: Winter air and a furnace can lead to dry air, exacerbating allergy symptoms and respiratory issues. A humidifier can be your winter hero, adding moisture to the air and easing discomfort. Aim for a humidity level between 30 to 50 percent for optimal comfort and health.
- Clean with care: Harsh chemicals found in many cleaning products can linger in stagnant winter air, further compounding IAQ problems. Opt for natural alternatives or gentler products whenever possible. Baking soda, vinegar, and even plain water can work wonders on many surfaces!
3. Deep Clean for Deeper Breaths
- Ditch the dust: Regular cleaning is key to preventing dust from becoming an airborne nuisance. Pay special attention to carpets, upholstered furniture, and dusty corners where allergens and pollutants love to hide.
- Clean your air ducts: Schedule professional duct cleaning every 3 to 5 years, or sooner if you suspect mold growth or rodent activity. Clean ducts promote efficient airflow and keep harmful contaminants at bay.
- Don’t forget the furnace: A neglected furnace can be a breeding ground for dust and allergens. Regular cleaning and tune-ups ensure your heating system operates efficiently and delivers cleaner air.
Create a Healthy Home This Winter
Good IAQ is more than just comfort—it’s about your family’s health. Let Carrier Cooling Center connect you to a Carrier air quality specialist who can recommend tips to improve your home environment. Click our Find A Dealer button to find a trustworthy HVAC professional in your neighborhood!