When temperatures drop, we naturally spend more time indoors. But with windows sealed shut and furnaces working around the clock, winter often brings an unwanted side effect: poor indoor air quality.
If you’ve been wondering how to improve indoor air quality in winter, you’re not alone. At Cross Country Mechanical, we’ve helped hundreds of local homeowners and businesses in Spruce Grove, Parkland County, Edmonton, and nearby communities breathe cleaner air during the coldest months of the year. And we’re here to tell you how.
Why Does Indoor Air Quality Get Worse in Winter?
When it’s cold outside, we close windows and doors to trap heat inside. But that means the air inside gets trapped too — along with dust, pet dander, cooking smells, and even chemicals from cleaning products. Your heating system runs more, which can stir up dust and allergens. This poor air quality in winter can lead to:
- Coughing, sneezing, or a dry throat
- Headaches or fatigue
- Worsened asthma or allergy symptoms
- Dry skin and irritated eyes
So, how can you improve indoor air quality when it’s too cold to open the windows? There are a few tips that may make all the difference.
8 Tips to Improve Indoor Air Quality During Cold Months
Here are 8 easy, proven tips to help you breathe cleaner, healthier air all season long:
1. Change Your Furnace Filter Often
One of the easiest ways to improve indoor air quality is to replace your HVAC filter every 1–3 months. Your furnace filter works hard in winter. If it’s dirty, it can’t catch dust and allergens like it should, so those particles float around your home.
2. Add Some Humidity
Dry air is one of the biggest reasons winter air feels uncomfortable. It can dry out your skin and irritate your throat. A humidifier adds moisture, making your home feel warmer and your air easier to breathe.
3. Get Your Air Ducts Cleaned
If it’s been a while, dust and allergens may be trapped inside your ducts. A professional cleaning is a proven method to improve indoor air quality. It increases airflow and reduces contaminants circulating through your home.
4. Ventilate Smartly
You don’t need to leave windows wide open. But even opening a window for a few minutes or running kitchen and bathroom fans helps push stale air out and bring fresh air in.
5. Add Indoor Plants
Looking for a natural way to make indoor air quality better? Certain houseplants act as air purifiers—absorbing toxins and adding oxygen. Bonus: they make your home feel cozier in winter.
6. Limit VOCs
Many household products release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. Try switching to natural cleaning products, avoiding aerosol sprays, and minimizing scented candles or air fresheners.
7. Use an Air Purifier
If you have pets, allergies, or just want extra protection, an air purifier with a HEPA filter traps tiny particles your HVAC system may miss.
8. Keep Your Home Clean
Regular vacuuming and dusting reduce allergens and keep your air feeling fresh. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter for best results.
Easy Winter Indoor Air Quality Maintenance Guide
If you’re looking for practical methods to improve indoor air quality, this easy-to-follow maintenance guide will help you stay on track and breathe easier during those cold months. Here’s how to stay on top of it:
Monthly:
- Check and replace your HVAC filter if it looks dirty
- Run exhaust fans during and after cooking or showering
- Dust surfaces and vacuum floors, especially around vents
Seasonally:
- Schedule duct cleaning and HVAC inspection with a professional
- Clean humidifiers and refill with fresh water regularly
- Inspect and clean air purifiers or replace their filters
Yearly:
- Have a professional HVAC tune-up to ensure your system is running efficiently
- Inspect home ventilation to confirm fresh air exchange is adequate
Call In the Pros
If you’ve been searching for how to improve indoor air quality during cold months, you’re already on the right path. But for long-term results, it often pays to bring in professionals who know your system inside and out. That’s where Cross Country Mechanical stands apart.
As an award-winning, factory-authorized dealer, we take pride in being the trusted HVAC partner for both homeowners and businesses. Our technicians can service any make or model, and we’re available 24/7 for emergency calls. Whether you need duct cleaning, HVAC maintenance, or expert advice on indoor air solutions, we can help.
Ready to Breathe Easier This Winter?
Don’t let poor indoor air quality steal your comfort this winter. Whether you want advice on how to improve indoor air quality or need a thorough system check-up, Cross Country Mechanical is ready to help.
Give us a call today or book your service online and start enjoying fresher, cleaner air indoors—without sacrificing warmth.