When Minnesota homes are sealed tight for the winter, indoor air quality (IAQ) often suffers. Dust, pet dander, and allergens linger longer indoors, while poor ventilation allows pollutants to build up. For families in Farmington and Kenyon, improving IAQ is about more than comfort—it’s about protecting your health.

At Streitz Heating & Cooling, we provide custom IAQ solutions that go beyond basic filters. Here’s how you can keep your home’s air fresh, clean, and healthy this winter.

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Why Indoor Air Quality Matters

Poor IAQ can contribute to:

• Allergies & asthma flare-ups – Dust and pollen circulate more indoors.

• Dryness & irritation – Low humidity leads to nose, throat, and skin issues.

• Mold & bacteria growth – Poor ventilation creates a breeding ground.

• Fatigue & headaches – Pollutants like carbon monoxide or VOCs impact well-being.

The EPA has noted that indoor air can be 2–5 times more polluted than outdoor air. For Minnesota families spending most of their winter indoors, IAQ deserves serious attention.

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Filters: Your First Line of Defense

Not all furnace filters are created equal.

• Standard fiberglass filters – Inexpensive, but only trap large dust particles.

• Pleated filters (MERV 8–13) – Capture smaller allergens like mold spores and pet dander.

• High-efficiency filters (MERV 13+) – Great for allergy sufferers, but require systems that can handle higher airflow resistance.

💡 Local Tip: Many Farmington and Kenyon homes benefit from an upgraded pleated filter for better protection without overloading the furnace.

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Air Purifiers & UV Lights

For homes that need extra protection:

• Whole-home air purifiers – Work with your HVAC system to capture fine particles.

• HEPA filtration – Hospital-grade air cleaning for sensitive households.

• UV lights – Kill bacteria, mold spores, and viruses inside ductwork.

These are especially beneficial for families with allergies, pets, or respiratory conditions.

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Ventilation: Fresh Air Without the Drafts

Tightly sealed homes are energy-efficient but often lack fresh air circulation. The solution is a heat recovery ventilator (HRV) or energy recovery ventilator (ERV).

• HRVs – Exchange stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air while transferring heat.

• ERVs – Also balance humidity, ideal for year-round comfort.

💡 In Minnesota winters, HRVs and ERVs ensure you get fresh air without losing heat or skyrocketing your energy bills.

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Duct Cleaning & Sealing

Dirty or leaky ductwork can undermine even the best IAQ upgrades. Regular duct cleaning and sealing:

• Reduces dust buildup

• Improves airflow balance

• Prevents pollutants from circulating

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Streitz IAQ Solutions for Farmington & Kenyon Homes

Every home is different. That’s why we create tailored IAQ plans combining filters, purifiers, humidifiers, and ventilation based on your family’s needs.

📞 Call (507) 645-4040 today for a consultation in Farmington, Kenyon, or nearby towns, and breathe easier all winter long.