Michigan winters may keep us warm inside, but they also trap dust, allergens, and dry air indoors. With windows closed for months at a time, the air quality inside Troy homes often becomes worse than outdoor air, leading to allergies, dry skin, increased illnesses, and strain on your HVAC system.
At Birmingham Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, our licensed heating and air specialists help homeowners protect their health and comfort with simple steps that dramatically improve indoor air quality during the winter season.
1. Replace Your Furnace Filter Regularly
The furnace filter removes dust, pet dander, pollen, and other airborne particles. During heavy usage in winter, replace filters every 1-3 months to allow the system to operate efficiently and keep air clean.
A clogged or dirty filter will make the furnace work extra hard, hence high utility bills as well as reduced airflow. In case your system needs any kind of attention, then check out our heating services so that it runs safely plus efficiently.
2. Schedule Professional Duct Cleaning
Every time your furnace runs, it blows dust and debris from inside the ductwork out into your home. Professional duct cleaning will remove all that mess inside your ducts! Reduction in allergy symptoms, elimination of bad smells…even discovering build-up restricting airflow.
3. Add Humidity Back Into the Air
The air in Michigan is dry. The long heating season makes it even drier. Low humidity bothers most people by causing:
- Dry skin
- Static electricity
- Irritated sinuses
- Increased spread of viruses
A whole-home humidifier or portable humidifier can restore healthy moisture levels and relieve winter discomfort.
4. Improve Ventilation Where Possible
Keep the air moving, even in winter. Run bathroom and kitchen fans, do not place furniture over vents, or allow your furnace blower to restrict its own air flow by inadequately circulating air through the system.
If it appears that the unit is not pushing enough air out, a tune-up on our technician’s checklist during a heating system inspection will address this issue and check for related problems.
5. Consider Upgrading to a High-Efficiency Air Filter
HEPA or high-MERV filters remove much tinier particles than the normal standard filter. Suitable in a home with pets and allergies, or where outdoor air quality is bad. Our team can recommend the best filter for your system to balance performance, airflow, and safety.
Breathe Easier This Winter With Professional Help
Improving your home’s indoor air quality will make you comfortable, keep you healthy, and add to the durability of your HVAC system.
Contact Birmingham Plumbing, Heating & Cooling for duct cleaning and filter replacements, as well as an inspection of your heating unit, so that cleaner air can be ensured inside this winter.
