Why Indoor Air Quality Matters During the Holidays

As Atlanta families gather indoors for the holidays, air quality becomes more critical than ever. The winter season can strain your home’s air from allergens to dust buildup. Discover how to improve indoor air quality with AComfort’s expertise for enhanced comfort and peace of mind.

Why Indoor Air Quality Drops During Winter and the Holidays

When the temperature drops, Atlanta homeowners and businesses seal windows and doors to keep warm. While this helps retain heat, it also traps pollutants, allergens, and moisture. Combine that with increased cooking, decorations, and foot traffic during the holidays, and your indoor air can quickly become stale or contaminated.

Other factors that contribute to poor winter air quality include:

• Reduced ventilation from tightly sealed homes

• Increased humidity from indoor heating systems

• Pet dander buildup from more time spent indoors

• Cooking emissions and cleaning chemicals during holiday prep

  
  

All these elements combine to create a stuffy environment that can trigger allergies, headaches, and respiratory irritation, especially for children, seniors, and guests with sensitivities.

Allergens, Dust, and Increased Indoor Activity

Holiday gatherings bring warmth and joy but involve more activity that can stir up hidden dust and allergens. Here’s what often impacts air quality this time of year:

• Christmas trees and decorations can introduce mold spores and dust mites.

• Extra guests mean more carbon dioxide and airborne particles.

• Candles and fireplaces release soot and fine particles into the air.

• Pet hair and dander spread faster in enclosed spaces.

Without proper filtration and ventilation, these particles recirculate through your HVAC system, reducing air quality and comfort throughout your home or workspace.

Solutions: Air Purifiers, Duct Cleaning & Better Filters

Improving indoor air quality doesn’t require an overhaul, just smart, preventive steps that make a big difference. AComfort recommends:

1. Upgrade Your Air Filters

Use high-efficiency filters (MERV 11–13) to capture smaller particles, such as pet dander, dust, and pollen. Replace them every 1–3 months, especially during high-usage seasons.

2. Schedule Professional Duct Cleaning

Dust and debris accumulate in air ducts over time. A professional cleaning removes buildup, improves airflow, and reduces the circulation of allergens throughout your home.

3. Install a Whole-Home Air Purifier

Modern purifiers with HEPA or UV technology remove up to 99% of airborne particles, such as viruses, bacteria, and mold spores. They integrate directly with your HVAC system for consistent, clean air in every room.

4. Control Humidity Levels

Atlanta’s fluctuating winter humidity can promote mold growth or dryness. A humidifier or dehumidifier helps maintain an ideal indoor range (30–50%) for comfort and health.

Benefits for Families, Employees & Holiday Guests

Whether you’re hosting family gatherings or running a busy workplace, clean indoor air affects everyone’s well-being and even their mood.

For Families:

Cleaner air supports better sleep, fewer allergy symptoms, and a healthier environment for children and seniors.

For Employees:

Improved IAQ reduces absenteeism, enhances focus, and boosts morale during the busy holiday season.

For Guests:

A fresh, comfortable atmosphere makes your home or business feel more inviting and welcoming, creating an environment that people remember.

Investing in air quality improvements isn’t just about comfort, but also about protecting the people you care about most.

Breathe Easier with A Comfort by Design This Holiday Season

As a family-owned HVAC company in Atlanta, AComfort understands the importance of comfort and health during the holidays. Our air quality solutions ensure your home, business, or community space stays safe, clean, and cozy, so you can focus on what matters most: celebrating with the people you love.

Schedule an Indoor Air Quality Inspection or Contact Us today to prepare your home for the holiday season.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Indoor Air Quality

Why does air quality get worse in winter?

Because windows stay closed, ventilation decreases, and indoor heating recirculates air, allowing allergens and pollutants to accumulate.

How often should air ducts be cleaned?

Every 3 to 5 years, or more often if you have pets, allergies, or notice visible dust buildup around vents.

Do air purifiers really make a difference?

Yes. HEPA or UV air purifiers significantly reduce airborne allergens, germs, and odors, improving comfort and respiratory health.

Does A Comfort by Design offer air quality services in Atlanta?

Absolutely. We provide air purifier installation, duct cleaning, humidity control, and HVAC maintenance tailored for Atlanta’s winter conditions.