Is It Winter Allergies Or Poor Indoor Air Quality?

Understanding The Impact Of Indoor Air Quality In Winter

As winter sets in, homeowners often find themselves nestled in the warmth of their homes, seeking comfort from the chilly outdoors. While this scene may sound cozy, many find themselves facing health dilemmas as temperatures drop.

Some are quick to blame winter allergies, but there may be another cause — poor indoor air quality. At Air Tech of Katy, our team is here to explain how the air quality in your home can cause allergy-like symptoms. We’ll also share what steps you can take to treat this problem.

Indoor Air Quality vs. Seasonal Allergies: How Do They Compare?

For many people in Katy, TX, the arrival of winter also means the arrival of winter allergies. This is due to increased allergens in the area, such as mountain cedar and mold.

While these allergens may create problems, they aren’t the only source of concern. Indoor air pollutants can cause allergy-like symptoms that leave you feeling ill. Here are some of the symptoms that seasonal allergies and poor IAQ can share:

• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Itchy nose, eyes or throat
• Headaches
• Runny or stuffy nose

While you can’t control what allergens arrive in winter, you can take steps to protect your indoor air quality! This starts with an understanding of what causes IAQ to suffer.

What Causes Poor Air Quality Indoors?

Homeowners often blame their symptoms on outdoor allergens, but indoor contaminants can be just as hard on your immune system. Some examples of common indoor pollutants include:

• Pet hair and dander accumulation
• Mold growth in moist conditions, such as hot water showers that create steam
• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) spread from using chemical cleaning solutions or burning candles
• Carbon monoxide from furnaces and fireplaces

With cold temperatures encouraging families to spend more time at home, it’s crucial to understand what causes poor IAQ. This understanding will allow you to address any concerns quickly and efficiently.

How To Allergen-Proof Your Home

There are several steps you can take to allergen-proof your home. Try the following methods to improve your indoor air:

• Use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in your HVAC system to trap finer particles.
• Regularly clean and vacuum your home, paying special attention to carpets and upholstery.
• Consider using a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels and prevent mold growth.
• Keep pets out of certain areas, especially bedrooms, to minimize pet dander.

By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the allergens in your home. This will lead to better indoor air quality in winter and beyond.

Improve Air Quality And Allergies With Professional Service

When DIY IAQ steps are paired with professional service, you’ll be able to ensure your home’s air is as clean as possible. At Air Tech of Katy, we make the comfort and health of our community a priority — which is why we’re here to share how our services can help!

Ventilation Strategies and Air Duct Services

One effective way to combat poor indoor air quality is through improved ventilation. This can be as simple as opening windows or using exhaust fans in high-moisture areas. However, for a more comprehensive solution, consider professional air duct repair or replacement services.

Over time, ducts can accumulate dust and other allergens. This debris is then circulated throughout your home. If you suspect a problem with your ducts, our team can investigate your concern and determine if professional service is needed.

Regular HVAC Maintenance

Regular AC and heater maintenance is crucial for maintaining good indoor air quality. This process can prevent the accumulation of dust and debris in your system as well as improve its efficiency. Be sure to schedule annual service for both your AC and your heater!

Indoor Air Quality Testing

At Air Tech of Katy, we provide professional air quality testing! This allows us to identify what contaminants are in your air. With this information, you’ll be able to understand what steps need to be taken to improve your health and comfort.

Contact Air Tech Of Katy For Air Quality Solutions

Determining whether your symptoms are due to winter allergies or poor air quality can be challenging, but Air Tech of Katy is here to help! Whether you’re looking to schedule air quality testing or seeking professional advice, you can put your trust in our expertise!

We proudly serve our Katy community, and we’re ready to help your home. Reach out today to schedule your service!