As you start to rely on your heating system more and more to keep you warm through the coming cold months, you should be aware of a couple of things. Primarily, you need to be aware of certain indoor air quality concerns that are exacerbated during winter. If not addressed properly, these concerns can lead to greater instances of illness and other problems. Let’s take a look at why this is a greater issue during winter, and what you can do about it.
Airborne Contaminants
Most of us use forced-air heating systems, like furnaces, to warm our homes. Most of us also keep doors and windows shut during the heating season in order to avoid letting the heat out. The problem is that running your furnace or other forced air system tends to circulate contaminants throughout your house. These contaminants, which include pollen, dander, germs, and mold spores, can cause all sorts of health problems if you are exposed to them in large amounts. So the best thing to do is to install a whole-house air purifier. This will allow you to keep using your heater, without having to worry about it circulating airborne contaminants.
Humidity Issues
Repeated use of a forced-air heater will dry out the air in the house, which will in turn have certain negative effects on your health. Specifically, your skin and the membranes in your nose will dry out and crack. This makes it much more likely that you will be infected by viruses and bacteria. The best way to prevent this from happening is to install a whole-house humidifier in your home. That will keep your home’s humidity levels balanced, even when you’re using your heating system.
If you need indoor air quality services in Tacoma, WA, call Sound Heating. We provide comprehensive indoor air quality services.