Staying warm during the chilly winter can be a challenge. While being comfortable when the temperature is its coldest is a major priority, how often do you think about the air stuck inside with you? Assuming your home is correctly sealed and you don’t feel drafts of cold air coming in, your indoor air quality could be less than desirable.
Sure, indoor air quality isn’t the most thrilling thing to think about when it’s freezing cold outside, but it is important to consider throughout the cooler months. The good thing is that increasing your indoor air quality is simple and doesn’t require a bunch of effort on your part. From furnace filters to routine winter maintenance, improve the air you’re breathing with a few of these easy 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 lessen the chance of those contaminants worsening allergies, disease and other illnesses. Making a point to check your furnace filter once a month can ensure your system is operating at its peak efficiency and keeping contaminants out of your air. If you recognize that your filter is dark or dirty, go ahead and change out the filter with a new one.
Size makes a difference
Furnace filters come in a variety of 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 let 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 headaches. To make certain you’ve got the correct size, check the size of the old filter, or look at the owner’s manual of your furnace.
Improved results
When you shop for furnace filters, you’ll see various options, everything from your most basic models that serve their purpose, to the higher end filters that capture more contaminants. The truth is that the basic filters are created with 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 big impact on your indoor air quality, and can help keep your air free from more contaminants. Typically, the filters that are a little more expensive offer greater energy efficiency, and could end up saving you money over time.
Keeping your air clean and comfortable is one of our greatest priorities, and keeping an eye on your furnace filter can help you better your indoor air quality and ensure your home will stay as comfortable as ever. If you’re interested in knowing more about furnace filters and how they affect your indoor air quality, give us a call at 435-753-5515.