During New England winters, we seal our homes tight to keep the cold out. But in doing so, we also trap pollutants, allergens, and stale air inside. The EPA estimates that indoor air can be 2-5 times more polluted than outdoor air — and in winter, that problem gets worse.
Here are 5 effective ways to improve your indoor air quality during the cold months:
1. Upgrade Your HVAC Filter
The filter in your furnace or air handler is your first line of defense against airborne pollutants. Most homes come with basic fiberglass filters (MERV 1-4) that only catch large particles.
Upgrade to a MERV 11-13 filter to capture dust, pollen, mold spores, pet dander, and even some bacteria. Change it every 1-2 months during heavy use periods.
2. Install a Whole-Home Humidifier
Winter air in Massachusetts is brutally dry. Low humidity causes: - Dry, cracked skin - Irritated sinuses and respiratory issues - Increased susceptibility to colds and flu - Static electricity - Damage to wood floors and furniture
A whole-home humidifier integrates with your HVAC system to maintain optimal humidity (30-50%) throughout your entire home.
3. Consider UV Germicidal Lights
UV-C lights installed in your HVAC system kill mold, bacteria, and viruses as air passes through. They're especially effective at preventing mold growth on the evaporator coil — a common problem that affects both air quality and system efficiency.
4. Schedule a Duct Cleaning
If you can't remember the last time your ducts were cleaned, they're likely harboring years of accumulated dust, pet hair, allergens, and potentially mold. Professional duct cleaning removes these contaminants and noticeably improves air quality.
5. Add Ventilation Without Losing Heat
An Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) brings fresh outdoor air into your home while recovering up to 80% of the heat from the exhaust air. You get fresh air without significantly increasing heating costs.
Start Breathing Better Today
Mass HVAC offers complete indoor air quality assessments for Massachusetts homes. We'll test your air, identify problems, and recommend the most effective solutions for your specific situation.
Contact Mass HVAC for a free indoor air quality consultation.
