Alaska winters mean closed windows, constant heat, and months spent indoors. Below are answers to common questions homeowners search for when it comes to indoor air quality during the winter season.
Q: What causes poor indoor air quality in winter?
During winter, homes are sealed tightly to conserve heat. This traps dust, pet dander, allergens, moisture, and airborne pollutants inside, allowing them to circulate continuously through the heating system.
Q: What is the ideal humidity level for a home in winter?
The recommended indoor humidity level is 30% to 50%.
- Below 30% can cause dry skin, sinus irritation, static electricity, and respiratory discomfort
- Above 50% may lead to condensation, mold growth, and moisture problems
Maintaining balanced humidity improves comfort and helps reduce airborne particles.
Q: How often should I change my air filter in winter?
Most homeowners should check filters every 30 days during winter.
- Replace filters every 1 to 3 months
- Homes with pets, allergies, or high heating usage may need monthly changes
Clean filters help capture dust and prevent recirculation of contaminants.
Q: Can my heating system affect indoor air quality?
Yes. Heating systems that burn fuel or move large volumes of air directly affect indoor air quality.
Regular maintenance helps:
- Ensure clean operation
- Reduce airborne debris
- Prevent carbon monoxide risks
Q: Do humidifiers actually help indoor air quality?
Yes. Proper humidity levels help reduce airborne dust, ease respiratory irritation, and improve overall comfort during dry winter months.
Q: Should I ventilate my home during winter?
Yes, even in cold weather.
Using exhaust fans and allowing brief fresh air exchanges helps remove stale air, excess moisture, and indoor pollutants without significantly affecting indoor temperatures.
Q: Does vacuuming improve indoor air quality?
Yes, especially when using a HEPA-filter vacuum.
HEPA filtration helps capture fine particles that standard vacuums may release back into the air.
Q: What household activities worsen indoor air quality?
Common contributors include:
- Burning candles or incense
- Using strong chemical cleaners
- Idling vehicles in attached garages
- Poorly vented wood stoves or fireplaces
Reducing these activities helps maintain cleaner indoor air.
Q: How do bathrooms and kitchens affect air quality?
Cooking and showering release moisture and particles into the air.
Running exhaust fans and controlling moisture helps prevent mold growth and lingering odors.
Q: When should I call a professional about indoor air quality?
If your home feels consistently dry, dusty, or uncomfortable despite basic maintenance, professional evaluation can help identify airflow, filtration, or humidity issues within your heating system.
Indoor air quality plays a major role in winter comfort, especially in Alaska’s long heating season. If you are unsure whether your heating system, air filters, or humidity levels are helping or hurting your air quality, Diamond Heating can help.
Our team works with business owners and homeowners every winter to improve comfort, efficiency, and the air they breathe. Reach out to Diamond Heating today to schedule service or discuss indoor air quality solutions for your home.
