When the heat kicks on across Camrose and the surrounding communities, most of us shut the windows, seal up the drafts, and settle in for the long Alberta winter. That’s when indoor air quality really starts to count. The dry air, longer hours spent inside, and constantly running furnace can all affect how your home feels and how your family breathes. The good news is, there are simple ways to make your air cleaner and your home more comfortable. At Battle River Plumbing & Heating, we’re here to help with friendly local advice and practical solutions that fit your home.
WHAT “GOOD AIR” LOOKS LIKE IN WINTER
In cold weather, the sweet spot for indoor humidity is usually between 30 and 50 percent. Many Alberta homes feel best in the low to mid-thirties once the real chill sets in. Staying in that range helps prevent static, dry skin, and irritated sinuses, while avoiding condensation or mould. Health Canada recommends the same range for keeping indoor air healthy through the season.
Fine particles are another part of the picture. They come from everyday things like cooking, cleaning, and even outdoor air that finds its way in. Keeping levels low with good filtration and steady ventilation can make a big difference for comfort and health.
And don’t forget about carbon monoxide. Every home with a fuel-burning appliance should have working CO alarms and a yearly inspection of the furnace and vents. These checks are simple, affordable, and keep your family safe all winter long.
FILTRATION THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE
Your furnace filter isn’t just there to protect your equipment. It plays a big role in your air quality too. When your system allows for it, a higher-efficiency filter can capture more of the fine particles that cause irritation and allergies. If your furnace and ductwork can handle a MERV 13 filter, it’s a great way to catch smaller particles. If not, we’ll help you find the best balance between air quality and proper airflow.
Here’s a local tip. If you live on a gravel road or in an area where wood smoke is common, your filter will clog faster than you’d expect. Take a peek at it once a month through the winter and swap it out when it looks dirty. A clean filter means better air and a happier furnace.
KEEPING HUMIDITY IN CHECK
Cold outdoor air doesn’t hold much moisture, and once it’s warmed up inside, it can feel extra dry. A properly sized whole-home humidifier can help keep the balance just right without adding too much moisture. Most homes in this area do well in the 30 to 40 percent range during the coldest months. That helps you breathe easier and also protects wood furniture and flooring from drying out.
If you notice condensation on your windows, that’s a sign humidity is too high for your home. On the other hand, if you’re getting static shocks, dry skin, or a sore throat, it’s likely too low. We can help you set a target and recommend the right humidifier or small adjustments to keep things steady.
GETTING FRESH AIR WITHOUT LOSING HEAT
Fresh air is important, even in the dead of winter. Heat-recovery ventilators (HRVs) and energy-recovery ventilators (ERVs) bring in fresh air while saving the heat from the outgoing air. They’re designed for our kind of climate and can really help reduce stale air, moisture buildup, and lingering odours.
If you already have one, make sure it’s serviced before winter. We can clean the filters, inspect the core, and ensure everything is balanced. If you don’t have one, we can look at your home and discuss whether adding one would make sense.
Even without an HRV, you can still improve ventilation by running your range hood when cooking and the bathroom fan during and after showers. Proper airflow helps prevent moisture and cooking particles from hanging around. If your fans are noisy or weak, we can help you find quieter and more effective replacements.
CARBON MONOXIDE: SIMPLE TIPS FOR SAFETY
Carbon monoxide has no smell or colour, which is why alarms are essential. Place one on every level of your home and near sleeping areas, test them regularly, and replace them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Have your furnace, water heater, and any other fuel-burning appliance inspected each year, and make sure outdoor vents are clear of snow and ice. These small steps make a big difference in keeping your family safe.
A QUICK WINTER AIR QUALITY CHECKLIST FOR CAMROSE HOMES
- Change or upgrade your furnace filter before the cold hits. Ask us if your system can support a higher-efficiency option.
- Check and maintain your humidity levels. We can install or service a whole-home humidifier if you need one.
- Service and balance your HRV or ERV for proper airflow and fresh air exchange.
- Run your range hood and bathroom fans whenever you cook or shower.
- Test carbon monoxide alarms and schedule your annual furnace inspection before the deep freeze.
WE’RE YOUR LOCAL INDOOR AIR QUALITY EXPERTS
Every home is different. A newer place in town, an older farmhouse, or an acreage outside Camrose each comes with its own challenges. Our team can look at your furnace, ductwork, ventilation, and humidity levels, and recommend the right solutions to make your home more comfortable. Sometimes that means a simple filter upgrade. Sometimes it’s a tune-up for your ventilation system or adding a humidifier.
Whatever you need, you’ll get honest advice and friendly service from people who live and work right here in your community.
If you’d like to improve your indoor air this winter, give Battle River Plumbing & Heating a call. We’re proud to serve Camrose and the surrounding area, and we’re here to help you breathe easier all season long.
