As the frost settles on rooftops and icy winds whip through Northern Virginia streets, the sniffles and coughs inevitably begin their annual invasion. While we bundle up and stock up on tissues, sometimes the culprit behind our winter misery might be closer than we think. A neglected or dysfunctional heating and cooling can actually worsen your cold and flu.

Mold Mayhem

Damp, dark corners of your ductwork can become cozy havens for villainous mold spores. These microscopic menaces trigger allergies, irritate airways, and even lead to respiratory infections, turning that sniffle into a symphony of sneezes.

Dust Devils

Imagine settling in for a cozy movie night, only to be bombarded by a dust cloud every time the furnace kicks on. That’s your HVAC system sending allergens and irritants like dust mites, pet dander, and pollen swirling through the air, exacerbating allergy symptoms and making you feel even more miserable.

Dry Air

Winter air in Northern Virginia is naturally dry. Cranking up the heat only exaggerates the problem, turning your home into a desert. This parched air dries out your nasal passages and throat, making you more susceptible to infections and sometimes leaving you feeling sicker.

Dirty Ducts

Think of your ductwork as a highway for air. If it’s clogged with dust, grime, and debris, it’s not just inefficient, it’s a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses. These unwelcome hitchhikers get recirculated with every gust of air, transforming your home into a germ-infested sauna.

So, how do we avoid becoming victims of our own cooling and heating systems?

Proactive Maintenance: Don’t wait for trouble to knock. Schedule regular heating and cooling maintenance by a Falcon technician to keep allergens, dust, and debris at bay.
Change your air filters: Think of air filters as the gates of your air system, filtering out unwanted guests. Change them monthly during peak season, and more frequently if you have allergies or pets.
Air Purification: Invest in a good air purifier to trap airborne allergens and pollutants, keeping your Northern Virginia air cleaner and your lungs happier. You can even consider UV air purification as an updated option to zap airborne pathogens, adding an extra layer of protection against viruses and bacteria
Humidifier: Dry air is a cold and flu season ally. Adding moisture to the air can soothe irritated airways and make breathing easier.

By taking these steps and calling Falcon at (703) 596-9998, you can transform your heating and cooling system from a potential health hazard into a powerful weapon against winter illnesses. Remember, a healthy home starts with healthy air, and a well-maintained furnace is the key to unlocking that happy, sniffle-free haven this winter season.