Winter Weather & Air Quality
The Spring and Summer seasons are a critical time for North Texas regarding air quality initiatives. Ground-level ozone layer is at its peak and a threat to residents’ health. However, the Center for Science Education emphasizes there are other types of pollution that are worse in the winter cold than in warm weather. Idling is an issue year‑round, but it becomes more common in cold weather when drivers let their vehicles warm up. In addition to idling, the use of energy increases when households raise their heaters. On the other hand, much like the 2021 winter storm, Texas experience an unforgettable power outage, where residents had to burn wood in their chimneys to keep warm.
There is no doubt that winter weather can be perilous; therefore, finding ways to stay warm is crucial. However, it is important to proceed with caution, as improper heating methods can cause more harm than good.
Clean Driving Tips in Cold Weather
As mentioned above, a common practice in the winter season is to turn on your car for a while to warm up before taking off to your next destination. The Environmental Protection Agency, along with Firestone complete Auto Care deems it as unnecessary to preheat your car for long periods of time prior to getting in. Additionally, Firestone listed five surprising downsides to idling during the winter, engine damage, vehicle staying colder longer, illegal in some areas, money loss, and environment polluting the environment.
- Damaging your Engine: Idling in the cold weather will strip vital oil of engine components like cylinders and pistons. This increases friction, wear, and long-term engine damage.
- Delay in the Heating Process: Modern engines warm up more efficiently when the vehicle is driven gently rather than sitting idle. In most cases, it takes 5 - 15 minutes of normal driving for the engine to reach optimal temperature.
- It’s Illegal: Most states have laws restricting unattended idling to reduce vehicle theft and improve safety.
- Waste of Money: The Department of Energy and Argonne estimate that nearly 6 billion gallons of fuel are exhausted each year from idling. Whether the fuel prices are high or as low as $2, the overall loss of money is roughly $11 billion - $20 billion annually.
- Increase in Pollution: Idling results in 1.6% of all pollutants in the country. That’s roughly 130,000 tons of carbon dioxide. According to the Environmental Defense Fund, each year we would need to plant an area the size of Manhattan with trees to offset these damages. Needless to say, it’s important to practice better habits for the sake of our planet, and ourselves.
Indoor Air Quality: Heating & Power Concerns
Weather conditions significantly influence indoor air quality as well, whether it’s turning up the heater, wood burning in the chimney, or needing your backup generator for power outages. Heating your home safely and efficiently is key to protecting indoor air quality, for your household and your neighbors. Below are the best practices to keep indoor air cleaner and healthier.
If you burn wood, use only dry, seasoned wood to reduce smoke and air pollution. Have your wood-burning appliance, chimney, and vents inspected each year, and consider upgrading to an EPA-approved appliance for cleaner, more efficient heating.
Power outages can also affect indoor air quality. To stay warm, let sunlight in during the day by opening drapes and blinds, then close them at night to hold in heat. Use flashlights or battery-powered lanterns instead of candles whenever possible and never leave candles unattended.
Never use fuel-powered generators indoors or in garages, basements, or sheds; always operate them outdoors at least 20 feet from buildings. Keep generators and appliances dry and away from standing water. Do not use gas stoves, ovens, grills, or unvented heaters to heat your home, and avoid using gas-burning heaters in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas, especially bedrooms.
Call to Action
While winter weather in North Texas may be temporary, its effects on air quality are very real. By driving smarter, heating homes safely, and avoiding unnecessary pollution, North Texans can protect both the air we breathe and the well-being of our communities. This winter, let’s stay warm, stay safe, and do our part to protect the planet we all share