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Now that the cold weather is rolling forward in Northern Indiana and Southwest Michigan, you’ve probably closed your home to keep the cold drafts out and the heated air inside. While a tight home saves on your heating bills and keeps you more comfortable, it can also build the levels of indoor air pollution in your home.

The Environmental Protection Agency has found that indoor air contains enough pollutants to place it on the list of top health hazards you encounter daily.

You’re not helpless against indoor air pollution, however. You can use a number of strategies to manage the level of contaminants in your indoor air. Air filters, ultraviolet treatment and duct maintenance all contribute to good indoor air quality. To improve the quality of the air you breathe, you might:

• Change your HVAC system’s air filters regularly. Choose filters that both protect your heating and cooling equipment and trap the contaminants in your home.
• Consider having your ductwork cleaned to help remove irritants from your air. People who suffer with allergies may benefit from cleaning that removes minute particles from the ducts.
• Repair your leaky ductwork. Leaky ducts can contribute to the dust and pollen levels in your home, along with creating higher energy bills in summer and winter.
• Add “germicidal lights” to your heating and cooling system. Ultraviolet (UV) disinfection kills airborne microorganisms such as mold, bacteria, viruses and fungi.
• Purchase another type of air cleaning device. Electronic air cleaners trap dust, pollen and dander in the air. Electrostatic filters also reduce particle loads in the air and can be part of your HVAC system or used independently.

If you have any concerns or questions about indoor air pollution and what you can do to address it, contact Home Comfort Experts. Serving Northern Indiana and Southwest Michigan, we would be happy to answer your questions.