We’re smack dab in the middle of “flu season” in the United States, but it might not be a strain of the virus that’s making you sick. Believe it or not, your very own home could be culprit and your hvac system could be making your symptoms worse. See below to find out a few ways that your heating system could be making you feel ill:

Airborne Pollutants

Most heating and air systems work by recirculating indoor air. This is good in a sense that it typically saves you money on energy bills, but it can also be very bad. Why? Well, if your HVAC filter is dirty, it means the air you’re breathing in is also dirty. Pollutants in the air, like pet dander, dust mites, mold and pollen, won’t get trapped as efficiently in a dirty filter and could end up in your lungs.

Inadequate Ventilation

If you have a gas furnace in your home, proper ventilation is an absolute necessity. A common byproduct of gas-powered equipment is carbon monoxide and yes, this stuff can really make you sick. It’s vital to make sure there are no cracks or gaps in the ducts and to make sure toxic gases are disposed of properly.

Lack of Humidity

Dry winter air can cause a variety of different health issues. While most of them aren’t anything too severe, it’s important to note that it can irritate your nose, chest and lungs and cause extremely dry skin. We recommend utilizing humidification systems in conjunction with your heating system during the colder months of the year.

Our family, serving Greater Covington and Northern Kentucky for 150 years, is dedicated to assisting you in finding a dependable, high-quality indoor comfort system that operates safely, can lower your monthly cost, reduce indoor air pollutants, and regulate temperature and humidity. Give Rusk Heating & Cooling a call today to learn more about our services!