Are you noticing your family has more dry skin, sore throats, itchy eyes, or irritated sinuses now that it’s winter? If you’re noticing it just inside your home, this could be a result of poor indoor air quality.
You’re not the first person to wonder if the air quality at home gets worse during in the winter. At Suburban Services Group, we understand the challenges of maintaining a healthy indoor atmosphere when temperatures drop. Let’s take a look at how winter can impact your indoor air quality and what you can do to improve it.
Why Is Indoor Air Quality Worse in Winter?
During the colder months, we tend to spend more time indoors, and the closed-up environment can contribute to poorer air quality.
Several factors make winter air quality different from the rest of the year:
- Reduced Ventilation: We often seal up windows and doors to conserve heat, which reduces airflow. Without proper ventilation, indoor pollutants like dust, pet dander, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can build up.
- Increased Humidity Fluctuations: Cold air outside typically has less moisture, which can lead to very dry indoor air when it’s heated. This dryness can irritate respiratory systems and cause discomfort.
- Heating Systems: Furnaces and other heating systems, while necessary for warmth, can also circulate dust and allergens if not properly maintained. They may dry out the air, further exacerbating indoor air quality issues.
What Are the Health Implications of Poor Indoor Air Quality?
When the air inside your home becomes polluted, it can have a significant impact on your health.
Some common symptoms associated with poor indoor air quality include:
- Irritated eyes, nose, and throat
- Increased asthma or allergy symptoms
- Headaches and fatigue
- Dry skin
For those with respiratory conditions, like asthma or COPD, winter air quality can make symptoms worse, leading to increased discomfort or even health complications.
How Can You Improve Your Indoor Air Quality This Winter?
Luckily, there are several steps you can take to improve the air you breathe during the winter months. First, schedule regular HVAC maintenance. This ensures that your heating system is cleaned and the filters are replaced. Clean filters help trap airborne contaminants, improving the overall air quality. Second, consider whether you need a whole-home humidifier. Adding moisture to the air can prevent dryness, which in turn helps maintain respiratory comfort. Last, ventilate your home. Allow fresh air to circulate or use air exchange systems designed for winter or whole-home air purifiers.
Get Help from Suburban Services Group in Saratoga Springs, NY
At Suburban Services Group, we’re committed to ensuring that you and your family breathe easy throughout the year. If you’re concerned about your home’s indoor air quality this winter, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team can help with HVAC system inspections, air filtration solutions, and humidity control options.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and improve the air quality in your home!
