Can Pets Damage Indoor Air Quality in Wintertime in Redding, CA?

As much as your pets love the chillier weather in Redding, CA, it turns out they can impact your home’s indoor air quality (IAQ) in the wintertime. Here’s what you need to know about how pets can damage IAQ and what you can do to keep your home safe and healthy for both you and your four-legged friends:

Pets and Poor IAQ: What’s the Link?

When it comes to IAQ, pet dander is one of the biggest culprits. Dander consists of tiny flakes of your pet’s dead skin cells. So, even if your pet doesn’t have fur, they could still be shedding enough dander to impact your IAQ.

Pets Track Outdoor Allergens Into Homes

In addition to dander, pets also track in dirt, dust and other outdoor allergens, which can further contribute to poor IAQ. And when residents seal their doors and windows during the winter months to keep out drafts, it creates a perfect storm for IAQ problems.

Pet Feces and Urine Can Become Airborne Pollutants

Pet feces and urine can be a major source of IAQ issues. When pet waste isn’t disposed of frequently, it can break down and release harmful particles into the air. And since these particles are so small, they can linger in the air for a long time before dissipating.

Fur Can Clog Air Filters

Another issue is that pet fur can clog air filters and ventilation systems, leading to poor air circulation. Clogged ducts can cause stale air in your home and increase dust levels.

How to Keep Your Home’s IAQ Healthy

The best way to keep your home’s IAQ healthy during winter is to take preventative measures. Start by grooming your pet regularly to reduce the dander they shed. Vacuuming, mopping and dusting can also help reduce the amount of dust and allergens in your home.

Additionally, you can invest in an air purifier to actively remove pet dander, dust and other allergens from the air. Contact Cascade Comfort Services, Inc. to discover how we tailor our IAQ solutions to fit your home and lifestyle in Redding, CA.

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