Breathe Easy: Improving Indoor Air Quality Before Winter

As the crisp days of October settle in, our homes become sanctuaries from chilly winds – but that means spending more time indoors. It’s the perfect time to get ahead of winter’s impact by refreshing your indoor air. A few smart steps in preparation can help ensure a healthier, more comfortable season ahead.

Indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outside air, especially in tightly sealed homes during colder months. These conditions can elevate risks of respiratory irritation, allergies, and even long-term health issues. Here are some ways you can improve your indoor air quality before winter begins.

1. Change Filters & Boost Filtration

HVAC Filters: Replace or clean filters every one to three months. Do this more often if you have pets, allergies, or heavy usage. Dirty filters impair airflow and worsen indoor air quality.

Upgrade Filters: Consider higher-efficiency options like MERV-13 for better particulate capture.

2. Use Air Purifiers (Portable & DIY)

Portable HEPA Purifiers: These are highly effective at trapping pollutants and are ideal for bedrooms or living areas.

DIY Option: Corsi–Rosenthal Box: A budget-friendly homemade purifier using MERV-13 filters and a box fan, offering impressive clean-air delivery at a fraction of commercial costs.

3. Enhance Ventilation

Let Fresh Air In: Open windows or ventilate for 10–15 minutes daily to reduce trapped indoor pollutants.

4. Manage Cleaning & Dust

Routine Cleaning: Vacuum with HEPA-filter-equipped vacuums at least twice a week, dust with damp microfiber cloths, and wash bedding weekly.

Declutter & Minimize Fabrics: Fewer surfaces for dust collection means cleaner air and less cleaning hassle.

Seal Entry Points: Stop dust from coming inside by using doormats, enforcing a no-shoes policy, and sealing window or door gaps.

5. Bring in Helpful Houseplants

Though their impact is modest in most homes, some houseplants can and improve air quality and ambiance. Best picks include spider plants, snake plants, and peace lilies – but don't overwater to avoid mold risks.

6. Control Humidity & Purify Ducts

Humidify Carefully: Winter air tends to dry out; aim for 30-50% relative humidity to stay comfortable and reduce static and respiratory irritation.

Whole-Home UV Purification: Some HVAC systems benefit from UV lights that neutralize microbes on coils and ducts, boosting air quality and system lifespan.

7. Focus on Source Control

Reduce Air Pollutant Sources: Avoid scented candles, strong-air fresheners, paints, and harsh cleaners. When you must use them, ventilate thoroughly.

Kitchen & Bath: Use exhaust fans while cooking and showering to expel moisture and pollutants.

About Ruoff Mortgage

At Ruoff Mortgage, we understand that buying a home is one of life’s biggest moments – not just as a financial decision, but a personal one. For more than 41 years, we’ve proudly helped families turn their dreams into reality. From our roots in northeast Indiana to now serving homebuyers throughout the Midwest, our focus has stayed the same: delivering exceptional service rooted in care, speed, and community. With an average 15-day clear-to-close time, our team is here to make your journey to homeownership as smooth and stress-free as possible. When you're ready to take the next step, we’re here to walk with you, every step of the way.