Improving Indoor Air Quality During Ottawa’s Winter Months

Winter in Ottawa means staying cozy indoors—but sealed-up homes and dry, cold air can make indoor air quality (IAQ) a real challenge. From humidity control to filtration and ventilation, here’s how to keep your indoor air clean, comfortable, and healthy all winter long.

Winter IAQ Challenges in Ottawa

Ottawa’s cold, dry winters often mean:

Low humidity from constant heating, leading to dry skin, irritated sinuses, and static shocks.
Stale air since windows stay shut, trapping allergens and pollutants.
Increased dust and allergens from spending more time indoors.

That’s why IAQ solutions are especially important in colder months.

Humidity Control

Balanced humidity is essential for comfort and health. The ideal indoor range is 30–50%.

Ercan’s offers whole-home humidifier options such as:

Evaporative humidifiers – efficient and low-maintenance.
Steam humidifiers – precise humidity control, ideal for larger homes.

Proper humidity not only eases breathing but also reduces the spread of viruses and prevents static electricity.

Air Filtration in Winter

When homes are sealed tight, filtration becomes even more important. Ercan's recommends checking filters monthly and replacing them at least every 3 months—or more often if you have pets.

For Ottawa winters, use filters rated MERV 8 or higher to capture dust, pollen, and other fine particles.

Ventilation Tips

Fresh air circulation is key, even in winter:

Open a window briefly on mild days to let stale air out.
Consider installing a Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV), which exchanges indoor air with fresh outdoor air while retaining heat, improving IAQ without raising energy bills.

Common Winter Pollutants

Be aware of these indoor air offenders:

Smoke from fireplaces.
Pet dander that accumulates when pets stay indoors.
Mold caused by excess humidity or hidden leaks.

Solutions include using air purifiers with HEPA filters, cleaning filters regularly, and inspecting for water damage or mold growth.

Checklist for Clean Air

Here’s a quick winter IAQ checklist for Ottawa homeowners:

Replace furnace filters regularly (MERV 8+).
Use humidifiers to balance indoor air.
Run air purifiers or install UV lights (such as REME Halo).
Dust and vacuum often.
Schedule duct cleaning if buildup is noticeable.

Need Professional Guidance?

Maintaining healthy indoor air quality in winter can be a balancing act.

Need help navigating indoor air quality options in Ottawa? Ercan’s Heating & Cooling offers personalized recommendations to keep your air clean, safe, and comfortable.

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