Improve Your Air Quality During the Winter

As the temperatures drop and windows start to close, the air inside your home becomes a much bigger part of your daily life. While many homeowners think of winterizing their homes in terms of energy savings and comfort, it’s just as important to think about indoor air quality, especially if you’ll be spending more time indoors over the coming months.

Winter brings a unique set of challenges that can degrade the air inside your home if you’re not prepared. From stale air and dry conditions to dust buildup and increased exposure to pollutants, it's the perfect time to take proactive steps to protect your indoor environment. Here's how to winterize your home for better air quality this season.

Why Winter Makes Indoor Air Quality Worse

During warmer months, most homes benefit from natural ventilation, which includes open windows, outdoor airflow, and the regular movement of fresh air through the space. But in winter, homes are sealed tightly to conserve heat. While this improves energy efficiency, it also traps pollutants, allergens, and moisture inside.

Several seasonal habits and environmental factors contribute to lower winter indoor air quality:

• Increased use of fireplaces, furnaces, and gas appliances
• Less ventilation from the outside
• More time spent indoors, raising human and pet-related particulates
• Use of holiday decorations or candles that emit VOCs
• Dry air that aggravates respiratory conditions and spreads dust

The good news is that with a few intentional steps, you can improve winter indoor air quality and create a healthier home environment.

1. Replace or Upgrade HVAC Filters

Your HVAC system will be working overtime in the winter, and its filter is your first line of defense against dust, allergens, and airborne pollutants. A dirty or clogged filter can circulate more contaminants through the air.

What to do:

• Replace standard HVAC filters at least every 90 days or more frequently if you have pets or allergies.
• Upgrade to a higher MERV-rated filter (MERV 8 or above) for better particulate capture.
• Have your ducts inspected if you suspect buildup or mold.

2. Clean and Service Your Heating System

Furnaces, boilers, and gas fireplaces should be professionally inspected before the cold season kicks in. Dirty systems can release harmful byproducts like carbon monoxide or circulate soot and dust throughout your home.

What to do:

• Schedule a seasonal HVAC inspection and cleaning.
• Make sure all combustion appliances are vented correctly and functioning safely.
• Check for signs of mold or moisture buildup in or around the system.

3. Add Moisture, but Not Too Much

Cold air holds less moisture, and indoor heating systems dry it out even more. This dry air can irritate your throat, skin, and sinuses, and it can increase static electricity and dust movement.

What to do:

• Use a humidifier to maintain indoor humidity between 30% and 50%.
• Monitor with a digital hygrometer to avoid over-humidifying (which can cause mold and dust mites).
• Use humidifiers in bedrooms or central living areas, and clean them regularly to prevent bacterial growth.

4. Ventilate When Possible

Even in winter, it's important to let in fresh air occasionally, especially after cooking, cleaning, or using products that release chemicals.

What to do:

• Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove moisture and pollutants. Learn more in our guide on warning signs of poor ventilation.
• Open windows briefly on milder days to flush out stale air.
• Consider installing a heat recovery ventilator (HRV) to bring in fresh air without losing heat.

5. Limit Use of Chemical Products

With doors and windows closed, chemical residues from cleaning products, air fresheners, and synthetic materials can build up in your indoor air.

What to do:

• Choose natural or low-VOC cleaners, paints, and furnishings.
• Avoid aerosol sprays and plug-in air fresheners.
• Use unscented candles or essential oil diffusers instead of heavily perfumed products.

6. Clean Smart, Not Just Often

Dust builds up faster in the winter due to low humidity and static. Regular cleaning helps reduce allergens and improve air quality, but how you clean matters.

What to do:

• Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to trap fine dust and pet dander.
• Wet-dust surfaces instead of dry dusting to avoid kicking particles into the air.
• Wash curtains, bedding, and pet beds regularly, especially in bedrooms.

7. Check for Carbon Monoxide and Radon

Winter is a critical time to test for carbon monoxide and radon, both of which are colorless, odorless gases that can be harmful or even fatal with prolonged exposure.

What to do:

• Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home and near sleeping areas.
  
  
• Test your home for radon, especially if you haven’t before. Kits are affordable and widely available, or you can hire a professional.

8. Keep Houseplants (With Care)

Some houseplants can help filter pollutants and add a touch of greenery to your indoor space during the gray winter months. However, they can also collect dust or grow mold if overwatered.

What to do:

• Choose low-maintenance plants like snake plants or pothos.
• Don’t overwater, and avoid soil that stays soggy.
• Wipe leaves regularly to prevent dust buildup.

Final Thoughts

Winter brings its own challenges, but with a little preparation, your home can remain both cozy and healthy. Focusing on winter indoor air quality ensures that your family is breathing clean, fresh air, even when the windows are shut and the furnace is running.

Small changes like replacing filters, maintaining proper humidity, and ventilating strategically can make a big difference. As the colder months approach, now is the perfect time to take control of your indoor air and enjoy the season with peace of mind. Contact us Today!