As winter approaches in Anchorage, Alaska, homeowners face more than just freezing temperatures—they also contend with flu season and the spread of germs. With the cold weather driving everyone indoors, maintaining clean indoor air becomes even more crucial. By focusing on indoor air quality, you can reduce airborne contaminants and help keep your family healthy all winter long. Here’s how to defend your home against germs during flu season, using air filters, UV lights, and regular heating system maintenance.
1. Upgrade Your Air Filters for Maximum Protection
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to improve indoor air quality is by upgrading your air filters. Standard filters are designed to trap larger particles like dust and pet dander, but high-efficiency filters—such as HEPA filters—can capture much smaller particles, including viruses and bacteria. Regularly replacing these filters, typically every 30 to 90 days, helps ensure that your home’s air remains clean and reduces the likelihood of spreading germs during flu season.
Pro Tip: Consider setting a reminder to change your air filters regularly. This simple habit can make a big difference in your home’s air quality during the winter months.
2. Consider Installing UV Lights in Your Heating System
Ultraviolet (UV) lights are an excellent addition to your heating system if you’re concerned about germs. These lights are designed to kill or neutralize airborne bacteria and viruses as air passes through your system, providing an extra layer of defense against the flu and other illnesses. UV lights work best when combined with high-quality air filters, significantly reducing the concentration of germs circulating in your home.
Pro Tip: Have your heating technician assess your system to determine the best placement for UV lights, ensuring they maximize germ-killing efficiency.
3. Keep Your Heating System Well-Maintained
Regular heating system maintenance is essential for keeping your system running efficiently and ensuring that it effectively filters out contaminants. A poorly maintained heating system can become a breeding ground for germs, mold, and bacteria, all of which can contribute to poor indoor air quality. During your maintenance appointment, ask your technician to clean the coils and ducts, check for any leaks, and ensure that your system is functioning properly.
Pro Tip: Schedule heating system maintenance before the coldest months hit. This proactive approach can help you avoid emergency repairs and maintain better air quality throughout the winter.
4. Use Portable Air Purifiers in High-Traffic Areas
If you want to take your germ defense to the next level, consider using portable air purifiers in rooms where your family spends the most time. These devices can help filter out airborne contaminants and improve air quality in specific areas of your home. Look for air purifiers with HEPA filters and UV light technology for the best protection against germs.
Pro Tip: Position your air purifiers in high-traffic areas like the living room and kitchen to target spaces where germs are most likely to spread.
5. Increase Ventilation to Circulate Fresh Air
While it’s tempting to seal up your home tightly during the winter to conserve heat, doing so can trap pollutants and germs inside. Increasing ventilation by opening windows for short periods or using exhaust fans can help circulate fresh air and reduce the concentration of germs indoors.
Pro Tip: Even in the coldest weather, try ventilating your home for at least 10 minutes a day. This brief exchange of fresh air can significantly improve indoor air quality without losing too much heat.
6. Humidify Your Home to Maintain Optimal Humidity Levels
Winter air tends to be dry, which can create an environment where viruses thrive. Keeping your home’s humidity levels between 30% and 50% can help reduce the spread of germs while also making the air more comfortable to breathe. Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air, especially if your heating system is causing dryness.
Pro Tip: Monitor humidity levels with a hygrometer to ensure you’re maintaining the ideal range. This helps prevent both dry air and excessive moisture, which can lead to mold growth.
7. Clean and Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces Regularly
While improving your indoor air quality is essential, don’t forget about cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and countertops. Germs can easily spread through contact, so regular cleaning is key to preventing illness. Use EPA-approved disinfectants and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
Pro Tip: Create a daily cleaning routine that focuses on high-touch areas, especially during flu season. This consistent approach will help minimize the spread of germs in your home.
Don’t Let Germs Take Over This Winter
By focusing on indoor air quality, you can create a healthier environment for your family during the winter months. From upgrading your air filters to installing UV lights and scheduling regular heating system maintenance, there are plenty of steps you can take to defend your home against germs. Remember, keeping your air clean is just as important as keeping your home warm—so take action now to ensure a safe and healthy winter.
For expert heating system maintenance and indoor air quality solutions in Anchorage, contact us today! We’re here to help you stay comfortable and healthy all season long.
