Winter in the Susquehanna Valley means cold temperatures, sealed-up homes, and heating systems running constantly. While these conditions help keep your home warm, they can also hurt your indoor air quality.
Indoor air quality affects more than comfort. Poor air quality can cause respiratory irritation, increased allergy symptoms, winter illnesses, and long-term moisture or mold issues. Protect your home and your health during the colder months by understanding why indoor air quality worsens in the winter and what you can do about it.
Let’s explore the most common winter indoor air quality problems in Lancaster County homes and outline practical solutions homeowners can consider.
Why Indoor Air Quality Gets Worse During Winter in Central Pennsylvania
Reduced Ventilation
During winter, windows and doors remain tightly sealed to keep cold air out. While this improves energy efficiency, it also traps airborne pollutants inside your home. Dust, pet dander, cleaning chemicals, and allergens recirculate inside without access to fresh outdoor air.
Constant Use of Heating Systems
Furnaces and heat pumps run frequently during winter, circulating air through ductwork every day. If filters are dirty or ducts contain dust and debris, these particles can be spread throughout your living space. In fuel-burning systems, improper operation can introduce combustion byproducts into the air.
Low Indoor Humidity
Cold outdoor air holds very little moisture. When that air is heated indoors, humidity levels often drop well below recommended levels. Many Lancaster County homeowners experience excessively dry indoor air from December through March. Germs and viruses thrive in this dry air, unfortunately!
Seasonal Pollutants
Winter activities can also impact air quality. Fireplaces, wood stoves, candles, and increased cooking during the holidays release particles that remain trapped indoors during colder months.
Condensation and Mold Risk
Older homes and poorly insulated areas may experience condensation on windows, walls, or attic spaces. Over time, excess moisture can create conditions that allow mold to develop, even during winter.
Signs Your Home’s Indoor Air Quality May Be Poor
Homeowners often assume indoor air quality problems are unavoidable in winter, but several warning signs suggest it may be time to take action:
- Dry or irritated sinuses and frequent nosebleeds
- Increased allergy or asthma symptoms indoors
- Static electricity buildup
- Excessive dust accumulation
- Condensation on windows
- Persistent odors or stale air
- Worsening sleep quality
If these issues persist throughout winter, your home’s air quality may need attention.
How to Improve Air Quality During Winter
Improving indoor air quality often involves a combination of filtration, humidity control, ventilation, and system maintenance. The right approach depends on your home’s age, size, and existing HVAC system.
Replace and Upgrade HVAC Filters
Air filters play a critical role in trapping airborne particles before they circulate through your home.
- Filters should typically be replaced every one to three months during winter.
- Many homes benefit from filters with a MERV (Minimum Efficiency Rating Value) rating between 8 and 11, which balance filtration and airflow.
- Higher-rated filters may improve air quality but should be selected carefully to avoid restricting airflow.
A technician can help determine the best filter option for your specific system.
Schedule Routine HVAC Maintenance
Professional heating maintenance ensures your system operates efficiently while properly filtering indoor air. During a tune-up, technicians inspect components, clean internal parts, and verify safe operation.
Regular maintenance can help:
- Reduce airborne dust and debris
- Improve airflow
- Identify potential carbon monoxide risks
- Extend HVAC system lifespan
Address Dry Air with Proper Humidity Control
The recommended indoor humidity level during winter is 30 to 50%. When humidity falls below this range, homeowners may experience discomfort and increased health issues.
Portable humidifiers provide limited relief and require frequent refilling. Whole-home humidifiers connect directly to your HVAC system and help maintain consistent humidity levels throughout the house. Proper humidity control can protect wood floors, furniture, and indoor comfort while reducing irritation to skin and airways.
Improve Ventilation Where Possible
Controlled ventilation allows stale indoor air to be replaced with fresh outdoor air without sacrificing energy efficiency.
In some homes, this may include:
- Short, scheduled window opening when weather permits
- Bathroom and kitchen exhaust fan use
- Mechanical ventilation systems designed to balance airflow
Consider Air Purification Systems
Air purifiers and advanced filtration systems are designed to remove fine particles that standard filters may miss. These systems can help reduce:
- Dust and pollen
- Pet dander
- Bacteria and viruses
- Smoke and odors
Not every home requires the same level of purification. The right solution depends on existing HVAC equipment, health concerns, and home layout.
Evaluate Ductwork Condition
Over time, ductwork can accumulate dust, debris, and contaminants that are circulated each time your heating system runs. In older Lancaster County homes, leaky or poorly sealed ducts may also pull air from basements, crawl spaces, or attics.
Duct inspection and cleaning may be recommended if:
- Dust buildup is visible around vents
- Airflow seems uneven
- The home has undergone recent renovations
- Allergies worsen when the system runs
DIY Steps Versus Professional Solutions
Homeowners can take several steps on their own, including:
- Replacing air filters regularly
- Using exhaust fans during cooking and bathing
- Reducing indoor pollutants such as candles or smoking indoors
- Making a checklist to winterize your home
Professional services may be needed for:
- Whole-home humidifier installation
- Air purification system selection
- Duct inspection or cleaning
- Heating system safety checks
Frequently Asked Questions About Winter Indoor Air Quality
What is the ideal humidity level for winter in Pennsylvania?
Homes tend to be most comfortable between 30-50% humidity during winter.
Is duct cleaning necessary?
No, EPA studies show that cleaning your air ducts will not have a meaningful impact on your air quality. You should only have your ducts checked/cleaned if you believe your system have a blockage somewhere.
Can indoor air quality affect sleep?
Poor air quality can contribute to congestion, dryness, and irritation that disrupt sleep.
Indoor Air Quality Services in Lancaster County
Improving indoor air quality in the Susquehanna Valley often starts with understanding your home’s specific challenges. Solutions are not one-size-fits-all, especially in homes with varying construction styles, insulation levels, and heating systems.
The award-winning team at RSC Heating and Air Conditioning can help evaluate your indoor air quality and identify improvements that align with your home, budget, and comfort goals. Each improvement to your HVAC system supports a cleaner and healthier indoor environment.
Our technicians can help you:
- Identify indoor air quality concerns
- Select appropriate filtration or purification solutions
- Improve humidity control
- Maintain safe and efficient heating operation
Schedule an indoor air quality consultation with RSC Heating and Air Conditioning today to evaluate your indoor air quality and find solutions to keep your home warm, healthy, and comfortable all winter long.
