Staying warm during the frigid winter can be a nuisance. While being comfortable when the temperature is its coldest is a big priority, how often do you think about the air stuck inside with you? Assuming your home is appropriately sealed and you don’t feel drafts of cold air making their way in, your indoor air quality might be lower than you’d like.
Sure, indoor air quality isn’t the most exciting thing to think about when it’s way too cold outside, but it is important to consider during the colder months. The good thing is that improving your indoor air quality is quite easy and doesn’t require a ton of effort on your part. From furnace filters to routine winter maintenance, improve the air you’re breathing with a few of these simple tips:
Check your filter
Keeping contaminants out of your home starts with filtration. Not only do furnace filters keep contaminants from constantly circulating in your home, they help decrease the chance of those contaminants worsening allergies, disease and other illnesses. Scheduling time to check your furnace filter once a month can help make sure your system is running at its top efficiency and keeping contaminants out of your air. If you recognize that your filter is dark or dirty, go ahead and swap out the filter with a new one.
Size makes a difference
Furnace filters come in various sizes and thicknesses, and choosing the incorrect one can have a negative effect on the cleanliness of your air and its efficiency. Filters that are too small allow unfiltered air through, sending dirty particles out into your home. Picking a filter that is too big simply won’t fit your system correctly, bringing about its own problems. To make sure you choose the correct size, check the size of the old filter, or look at the owner’s manual of your furnace.
Improved results
When you go to get furnace filters, you’ll see various options, everything from your most basic models that serve their purpose, to the higher end filters that catch more contaminants. The truth is that the basic filters are made up of loose fiberglass mesh, and do offer some protection for your home, but not as much protection as the filters that cost a little more. The difference between the filters has a large impact on your indoor air quality, and ultimately keeps your air free from more contaminants. More often than not, the filters that are a little more expensive offer greater energy efficiency, potentially saving you money in the long run.
Keeping your air clean and comfortable is one of our top priorities, and keeping an eye on your furnace filter can help you boost your indoor air quality and ensure your home will stay as comfortable as ever. If you’re interested in hearing more about furnace filters and how they affect your indoor air quality, give us a call at 201-268-5663.