‘Tis the season for holiday lights, Christmas cookies, and … germs. Winter is peak season for cold and flu viruses, so if you’re stuck inside an office with sneezing co-workers and your kids are in close quarters with sick students at school, you’re all likely to bring germs home. To keep your family as healthy as possible this December and throughout winter, follow these tips.
It’s Not Too Late for a Flu Shot
According to the CDS, as long as flu viruses are spreading, it’s not too late to get vaccinated. The flu nasal spray is available for most non-pregnant patients from 2 years old to 49.
Keep Germs From Spreading in Your Home
Remind everyone in your family to wash hands often with soap and hot water, and remind anyone who is sick to sneeze into the crook of their arms instead of their hands. Also use Lysol wipes to wipe down faucet and door handles.
Turn the Thermostat Down
Warm air breeds viruses and dries out mucous membranes, making any cold symptoms you have feel worse, so lower the temperature in your home about five degrees.
Buy a Whole House Humidifier
Having moisture in the air can lessen the chances of viruses spreading. Your trusted Harford County HVAC company can install a whole house humidifier by attaching it to your water line and mounting it to your HVAC system where it can distribute moisture evenly throughout your home. A whole house humidifier can also relieve cold symptoms such as a sore throat and congestion (often which are made worse by dry air).
Upgrade Your Air Filter
An average furnace filter cannot trap tiny particles like viruses from making their way through your HVAC system. Look for a furnace filter with a MERV rating of 17 or 18, especially if you have someone in your house with a weak immune system.
Consider an Air Cleaner
Air that flows through your ducts and vents can carry viruses to every room in your home. We offer the OXY Quantum UV Air Cleaner to sanitize the air, killing airborne bacteria and viruses and improving your indoor air quality.
Talk to One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning About Improving Your Indoor Air Quality
Don’t let your family breathe germ-filled air all winter. We’ll help convert your HVAC system into a whole house air treatment center to keep you all healthier. Give us a call to find out how we can help!