Can you believe we are halfway through February? We have already seen so many different types of weather this year, including the unexpected snow! And as we have to deal with our ever-changing weather we also have to deal with another issue: cold and flu season. While many focus on flu shots and other preventive measures, one crucial aspect often overlooked is the quality of the air we breathe indoors. Poor indoor air quality can intensify respiratory issues and can create an optimal condition for viruses like the flu, RSV and the common cold to grow and spread. Making sure your home has proper ventilation, effective air filtration and humidity control will not only keep your home comfortable, but will also keep everyone inside it safe and healthy. Continue reading as we discuss the different ways you can protect the quality of your indoor air during cold and flu season.
Let’s begin with discussing the health impacts that poor indoor air quality can have on your health:
Respiratory Issues: Poor air quality can aggravate issues like asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory illnesses, leading to increased symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Allergic Reactions: High levels of allergens, such as dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander, can trigger allergic reactions, causing symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, and skin irritations.
Increased Risk of Infections: Contaminated air can contribute to the spread of airborne viruses and bacteria, increasing the likelihood of infections, particularly respiratory infections.
Fatigue and Headaches: Poor air circulation, high levels of carbon dioxide, and the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can lead to fatigue, headaches, and overall discomfort.
Dizziness and Nausea: Exposure to harmful pollutants and chemicals in the air can cause dizziness, nausea, and even cognitive difficulties, affecting concentration and productivity.
Long-Term Health Effects: Prolonged exposure to indoor air pollutants can contribute to long-term health issues, including chronic respiratory diseases, heart disease, and even certain types of cancer.
Worsening Mental Health: Poor indoor air quality has been linked to increased stress levels and decreased mental clarity, potentially impacting overall mental well-being.
Now that we understand what can happen to our health if we live in a home with poor indoor air quality, we will explain what you should do to keep the air inside your home healthy.
Ventilation: Even in winter, it’s important to ventilate your home. Open windows on warmer days to allow fresh air in, and use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to reduce moisture and odors.
Use Air Purifiers: Invest in a high-quality air purifier with a HEPA filter to capture allergens, dust, and other pollutants in the air. This is especially beneficial if anyone in your home suffers from allergies or asthma.
Maintain Humidity Levels: Use a humidifier to keep indoor humidity levels between 30-50%. Also, check out our blog post (LINK) where we discuss indoor humidity and how to keep it under control inside your home.
Regular HVAC Maintenance: Schedule maintenance for your heating system, including changing filters regularly. Clean filters help improve airflow and reduce dust and allergens in your home.
“We work with many Aprilaire products and I always recommend their air filters to my customers, ” says JW East Mechanicical owner Jim East. “They have a new super air filter with a MERV 16 rating and will last three years. It’s a hospital grade filter and is a good option if someone in your home has asthma. For example, a filter with a MERV 6 or 7 rating will only last one year.”
Control Dust Accumulation: Dust and vacuum frequently to reduce allergens. This helps keep the quality of your air clean and healthy.
Check for Mold: Regularly inspect areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens, for mold growth. Address any leaks quickly and use dehumidifiers in damp areas to prevent mold growth.
We understand that people are going to get sick, but by following the advice listed above you can keep the indoor air inside your home clean, and this in turn will keep everyone inside your home healthier. If you have questions or concerns about the quality of the air inside your home, call the experts at JW East Mechanical.