Does Improved Indoor Air Quality Prevent Colds and the Flu?

Now that we’re in the midst of the cold and flu season, many of us are doing our best to keep healthy and avoid catching the sniffles. From getting the flu shot to taking vitamins to boost our immune system, there are many ways to keep from getting sick during the winter months. Yet, there are also other factors that you may not have considered when protecting yourself against falling ill.

Indoor air quality has become an important topic over the last decade. As we have learned more about the potentially harmful effects of indoor air pollution, the significance of maintaining optimal indoor air quality has become more apparent. This is especially true when trying to stop the spread of harmful bacteria and viruses.

Through our HVAC installation and maintenance expertise, RR Electric Heating & Air has found that improving indoor air quality leads to correcting potential problems that could contribute to the increased spread of pathogens. We are proud to provide affordable solutions, including home electrical panel upgrades, to Simi Valley, CA, residents.

So, what’s lurking in your indoor air? Let’s take a look!

Follow these steps to improve your indoor air quality!

Increased Ventilation

Recently, there has been a push to thoroughly seal homes before the arrival of the cold and flu season. While sealing a house and insulating it to better control interior temperatures and save energy is important, homeowners should also take into consideration the need for proper ventilation. When a home remains sealed for long periods of time, the chance for air contamination with particulate matter and microscopic organisms increases.

Through the use of a whole-home ventilation system or by manually ventilating your home, you can cut down on the concentration of indoor air pollutants that will negatively impact your health. A ventilation system will remove particulate matter and pathogens while supplying your home with clean, fresh air. If you do not have a ventilation system, you can also open the windows several times during the week, allowing fresh outdoor air to replace existing stale air within your home.

Air Purification

Air purification systems can significantly reduce the concentration of harmful air pollutants in any house. By using an air filter, most allergens and microorganisms can be eliminated, greatly increasing the quality of the air inside your home.

Correcting Humidity Issues

Having adequate humidity levels in homes can significantly reduce the transmission of colds and viruses. You can achieve optimal humidity levels in your home through the installation of a dehumidifier.

For more information about installing an indoor dehumidifier or humidifier to improve air quality, contact us today.

RR Electric Heating & Air has been serving our community for over 25 years. Our expert technicians are dedicated to providing professional and affordable repair and installation services to our clients. We offer heater repairs in Simi Valley, CA, and the surrounding areas if you get caught in the cold this winter. For more information regarding our wide range of home services, contact RR Electric Heating & Air.