Unfortunately, there is some bad news that comes along with sealing windows, walls, and doors that may leak. That something is air pollution or contamination within the home. By sealing cracks, you’re saving heat but also giving pollutants less opportunity to escape your home. Carbon Monoxide, an odorless, colorless and very poisonous gas can also be trapped.

To reduce this risk, make sure you change the filter on your furnace often, preferably with a premium one that stops as much allergens and particles as possible. Be especially vigilant if you have household pets. Mechanical filters generally work best for the all purpose removal of dander, pet hair, allergens, and airborne particles. However these systems would probably require professional installation.

Electrostatic filters also work well, and are more economical than the standard disposable filters. They can be hosed off and cleaned. If you choose an electrostatic filter, make sure to clean it often since efficiency is greatly reduced when they are dirty.

Of course, make sure the return vent is kept clean and free of obstruction. Otherwise no filter in the world would be able to do its job effectively.

If you use gas in your home, such as in the furnace or stove, oven, hot water heater, etc, there is the potential for a Carbon Monoxide problem. The problem occurs when the gas is burned, or combusted. Most furnaces and appliances deal with the gas efficiently, so the risk is minimized. It is best to have the furnace inspected often to make sure it is in good working shape which can decrease the chance of Carbon Monoxide poisoning.

Install a Carbon Monoxide Detector, preferably one on every floor. This will alert you to rising or high levels of Carbon Monoxide. If there are Carbon Monoxide problems, call your local HVAC contractor immediately. And of course seek fresh air.

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