We spend up to 90% of our time indoors. That’s one of the reasons it’s so important to keep your home properly ventilated. Several particles pollute the indoor air daily: smoke, pollen, and smog from the outside, for example.
But other day-to-day activities might contaminate the air too, such as cooking or burning a candle. The range of solutions is broad, from opening the windows to installing AOV smoke control systems. If you seek ways to improve your home ventilation, read on to find some tips.
1) Open the Windows and Doors
Not to state the obvious, but opening the windows and doors will bring in fresh air and thus improve ventilation at home. You don’t even need to open them wide – even slightly cracking them open will help.
- If possible, open several doors and windows to ensure airflow and renovation.
- If you tend to sleep with the windows closed, make sure to open them first thing in the morning.
2) Install Fans
Fans can be a great tool to improve airflow, as they force air to be in constant movement. However, here are some tips to consider:If possible, place the fan close to an open window. That way, you’ll blow the air outside and get rid of potentially harmful particles like a virus.
- Don’t point fans toward people. If you do, you might be directing contaminated air directly at them.
- Consider ceiling fans. They help improve airflow whether the windows and doors are open or closed.
3) Install AOV Smoke Control Systems
AOV stands for Automatic Opening Vent. These control systems vent air or smoke for natural ventilation. They come with sensors that determine when the building or room needs ventilation.
They mainly serve as prevention systems in the event of a fire – they detect smoke and other harmful particles and open the windows to prevent residents from inhaling them.
If you’re concerned about your loved ones’ safety and the potential damage contaminated air can cause, an AOV system is your go-to option.
4) Consider a Dehumidifier
These appliances remove excess moisture from the air and thus keep your room at optimum humidity. They help maintain optimal condensation levels, improving the air quality at home as a result. Here are some of their benefits:
- Cost-effective. You can buy a dehumidifier for an affordable value for money.
- Reduction in humidity levels, combatting mould, and improving air quality.
- Reduction in allergens. If you experience allergies frequently, a dehumidifier can reduce the allergen particles in the air.
- Small size. These devices don’t take up a lot of space, meaning you can place them anywhere at home.
5) Dry the Laundry Outside
The UK is well-known for its humid weather, especially in seasons like winter. That can lead us to dry the laundry clothes indoors. But drying the clothes inside can create condensation and accelerate mould growth.
Try to dry your clothes in a covered outdoor area like a patio. If indoors is your only option, open the windows to allow excess moisture to escape.
The Bottom Line
We spend a lot of time indoors. Home ventilation is necessary because it ensures the air you breathe is rich in oxygen and poor in allergens or toxic particles.
The best way to ensure home ventilation is to open windows and doors to allow airflow. Other tips are to install dehumidifiers or control systems that detect harmful particles and prevent you from inhaling them.