Tips for Ensuring Proper Ventilation during Winters

In the winter, you will want to keep every window and opening closed to prevent the cold air from flowing out. While it is reasonable to do so to maintain the interior temperatures, it is also important to ensure effective ventilation. A lack of proper ventilation can mean the indoor air can become extremely dirty and unhealthy. The indoor air can become a combination of airborne particulates such as pet dander, mold, volatile compounds, and pollen.

While having a well-insulated home is beneficial from the perspective of energy efficiency, it is also essential to ensure effective ventilation. At Air Texas AC, we suggest using the following tips to ensure proper ventilation during winter.

1. Use Heat Recovery Ventilators

A heat recovery ventilator works by using the heat of the indoor air to warm the fresh, cold incoming air. The system features the following functional components:

• Two Fans: The first fan removes the warm indoor air, and the second fan moves fresh air indoors.
• Heat Exchanger Core: This unit transfers heat from the outgoing indoor air to the incoming fresh air. 

2. Install Air Purifiers

An air purifier sanitizes the air in your home by removing toxins and pollutants. Air purifiers are different from air filters, humidifiers, and oil diffusers. It is recommended to invest in a purifier with the right capacity.

3. Use Air-Purifying Plants

You can also find plants that purify the air and create a healthier indoor environment without affecting the temperature of the heated air. They can absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. It is recommended to place a few of the following plants in areas where you and your family spend more time:

• Aloe vera
• English Ivy
• Chrysanthemum
• Spider plant
• Snake plant

4. Use Your Ceiling Fans in Winter Mode

If you have ceiling fans with reverse mode, use them in the winter mode. When the airflow direction is reversed, it helps pull up cold air and warm air is pushed down. This creates a ventilation pattern that helps keep the air indoors fresh for longer.

5. Use a Hygrometer

Use a hygrometer that allows you to track indoor humidity levels. This will make it easier for you to determine when to use the humidifier. The indoor humidity rate needs to be maintained at 40% to 50%. You can readily check the humidity levels on the hygrometer to ensure the humidifier is used at the right time.

When to Ventilate?

It is also important to know when you need to ventilate your home or rooms in the winter. It is recommended to keep the following points in mind as part of the effort:

• Make sure to open your home at least once a day. It can be just for a few minutes.
• You should also ventilate the indoors every time you turn off the heating system.
• If you turn off the heating system before you leave your home or before going to bed, make sure to open a window or door for a brief period of time. This will help lessen condensation.

So, follow these tips to improve indoor ventilation during winter. If you need more tips and guidance, feel free to contact us at Air Texas AC. You can give us a call at (210) 602-7181 or send us a message, and we will get back to you at the earliest.