Sealing up tight for winter might keep the cold out — but it also traps stale air inside. That’s why indoor air quality (IAQ) can plummet during Minnesota winters. Common winter IAQ issues: Dry air that irritates skin and sinuses Trapped allergens, dust, and pet dander Reduced oxygen exchange from lack of ventilation Solutions: Install a whole-home humidifier Upgrade to HEPA or MERV-13 filters Consider an HRV/ERV for fresh air circulation ​ Cleaner air = a healthier winter.

When it’s -10°F outside, even a good furnace can struggle. But what’s normal... and what’s a sign of trouble? Signs your furnace is overwhelmed: It runs constantly and never reaches the set temp Some rooms stay cold while others overheat Your energy bill spikes unexpectedly What to do: Seal up drafts around doors and windows Add insulation in attics and crawlspaces Ask about dual-fuel or high-efficiency upgrades ​ Stay ahead of winter’s worst — and don’t wait until your system fails.

Minnesota winters are no joke — when the wind chill dips below zero, your furnace needs to be in top shape. Before the next cold snap hits, here’s how to make sure your system is ready: Change your filter — a clogged one makes your furnace work harder. Check your thermostat settings — set to heat, schedule is accurate. Inspect vents and intakes — make sure they’re not blocked by snow or debris. Schedule a quick tune-up — a technician can catch small issues before they become big problems. Prep n

Myth #1: Opening windows for a few minutes won’t help. Fact: Even short bursts of fresh air can reduce indoor pollutant levels. Myth #2: Humidifiers are just for comfort. Fact: Balanced humidity protects wood, electronics, and respiratory health. Myth #3: Your filter doesn’t need changing in winter. ​ Fact: Filters clog faster when homes are sealed tight. ​ Get the facts straight and breathe easier all season.

​Ice dams form when heat escapes through your attic, melts snow on your roof, and refreezes at the edge. This backup can damage shingles, gutters, and even seep into insulation. Your HVAC system ends up working harder to maintain comfort due to lost heat. Prevent ice dams by upgrading attic insulation, sealing leaks, and ensuring proper ventilation. A healthy roof supports a healthy HVAC system.

​Wind chill makes the outside feel colder than the actual temperature. While it doesn't directly affect thermostats, it increases the rate of heat loss through walls, windows, and cracks. If your home feels drafty when wind picks up, it might be time to assess insulation and exterior sealing. Reducing airflow leaks keeps your heat in — and your energy bills lower.

Negative temperatures aren’t just hard on your fingers — they push your furnace to the limit. Here’s why heating efficiency drops during the worst cold snaps: Heat Loss Increases Windows, attics, and even light switches leak heat. Sub-zero air finds every gap. Longer Run Times Your system has to run longer to reach the same indoor temp. That means higher bills and more wear. Systems Reach Their Capacity Furnaces are designed for "design temps" — but a -25°F day can exceed what your system was si

When your furnace works harder than it should, it ages faster. But most homeowners don’t know what overworked looks like until something fails. Here’s what to watch for: Constant Running - It shouldn’t run all day long. If it never stops, it could be fighting drafty rooms, poor insulation, or filter issues. Uneven Temperatures - Hot upstairs, freezing downstairs? Your furnace might be compensating for bad ductwork or a sizing mismatch. Energy Bill Spikes - If you haven’t changed habits but your

You winterize your car, your boat, even your sprinkler system. But what about the thing keeping your home warm all season? It might sound funny, but your HVAC system deserves a "Winter Readiness Day." Here’s why: Prevent Emergency Breakdowns Systems fail when they're overworked and under-maintained. A quick tune-up can catch: Cracked heat exchangers Failing ignitors Weak airflow due to dirty filters Improve Efficiency Before the Deep Freeze Even a slightly clogged filter or blocked vent can: Rai

The first real snowstorm of the season has officially hit Minnesota—and it didn’t hold back. With several inches of snow, icy roads, and school closures across the Twin Cities and beyond, winter has made its dramatic entrance. Whether you’re in Anoka, Blaine, St. Cloud, or anywhere in between, now’s the time to make sure your home (and heating system) is ready for whatever else the season throws our way. What the First Snowstorm Means for Minnesota Homeowners FOX 9 reported widespread snow total