Does Cold Weather Cause Colds?

I used to think so. (Hey, the name fits!) But even though winter is the "prime time" for colds, researchers say that sniffles and air temperature aren't necessarily related.

The seasonal occurence may be due to spending more time indoors.  And when indoor groups spend a lot of time together - such as in classrooms - the odds increase that germs will be spread.

Relative humidity may also be a factor.  In colder months, humidity is low, and that gives cold-causing viruses a better chance for survival.  Also, in cold weather, nasal passages' lining become drier and more vulnerable to viral infection.

To prevent colds:
*     Wash your hands.  Hand washing is the simplest and most effective way to avoid colds, especially after making hand contact with others.

*    Don't touch your nose or eyes.  Sneeze or cough into a facial tissue and throw it away.  Be aware that others with colds put you at risk.  Avoid close, prolonged exposure.

*     Check into a humidifier.  These keep the moisture in your home at the ideal level for your comfort and can reduce your chances of getting a cold.  (Plus, they can keep your furniture from swelling or cracking and doors from sticking!)  Call us and we will give you more information on these health and comfort marvels!  They really work.

*     Cold germs can live up to 3 hours on objects and skin.  Cleaning surfaces with a virus-killing disinfectant or a whole house air purification system also prevents spread of infection.

To learn more about preventing colds this season give us a call at 918-299-3433 or visit our website at http://www.callairsolutions.com/

5 Things You Can Do to Get Ready for Winter

By the time really cold wind starts to blow, it is to late to worry about whether or not your home is ready for the cold winter ahead.  What's done is done, and what's not done - well, it could cost you hundreds of dollars in home repairs.  Luckily there's no time like the present to make sure you're prepared before your hindsight kicks in....
1.    Have your heating system cleaned and tuned.  A pre-season tune-up is a good investment - it reduces chances of breakdowns in the middle of winter, improves safety, and pays for itself through more energy efficient operation.

2.    Test your system for hazardous carbon monoxide, which can be produced by dirty or malfunctioning furnace or water heater.  We can also install a low level carbon monoxide alarm.

3.    Have your duct system tested for air leaks.  According to recent research by the US department of Energy, the typical duct system loses 25 to 40 percent of the energy you put out by the central furnace, heater or air conditioner.

4.     Get your home's air checked to find our if the air you breathe is unhealthy.  Your indoor air can be much more polluted than what is outside,  and with all the time spent indoors during the winter, you'll want to ensure your family's health, safety and comfort.

5.    Consider replacing your old furnace or heat pump.  Just like a car, heating equipment doesn't last forever.  If your system is more than 12 years old, and you are planning to stay in your home more than a few years, it is wise to consider replacing it before it fails permanently.  A new system is safer, more dependable, and can pay for itself through energy savings as it is up to twice as energy efficient.

See what else you can do to prepare for winter here.