IMPROVING INDOOR AIR QUALITY

A lot has been written lately about indoor air pollution.  Up until recently we have been preoccupied with outdoor pollution not realising that the everyday actions we take to make out homes more clean and comfortable expose us to pollutants that can be damaging to our health.

There are some fundamental changes and actions we can take to improve the air quality in our homes and reduce indoor pollution: –

• Let in the fresh air – opening your windows is the easiest way of removing pollutants. Humidity is high in winter so this is the time when we need to continue to open windows in spite of the cold weather.

This is very important when you are cleaning or decorating.  Chemicals found in cleaning and decorating products can release volatile organic compounds.

• Make use of an extractor fan – switch this on during and even after cooking to remove substances that enter the air and moisture generated by steam. An extractor in the bathroom will remove moisture and prevent mould spores from forming.  Extractor fans will also help remove harmful effects from cleaning products, sprays and toiletries.
• Vacuum regularly – this will remove particles that can potentially pollute the air and this is particularly important if you have pets. Pet hair and pollen brought indoors by pets can aggravate hay fever.
• Prevent damp and mould formation – when humidity levels are high indoors, mould spores can form and dust mites, fleas etc. can flourish. Try not to dry your clothes indoors but if you have to then ensure that you ventilate the room by opening windows or doors or alternatively use a dehumidifier.
• Reduce the use of sprays which are easily inhaled, scented candles, incense sticks and air freshener.

If you are fortunate enough to have sash windows then you will be pleased to know that they are the best window design for purge ventilation.  You get improved air quality due to eight air changes per hour.  By lowering the top sash and raising the bottom sash, warm air is able to rise towards the ceiling.  Cooler, fresh air being heavier is then drawn into the room and then drops to the floor, pushing more air towards the ceiling.  As this air rises it accelerates the process, drawing more fresh air into a room.

     

If you are considering replacing your old draughty timber sash windows with a modern low maintenance alternative then please find your nearest Bygone Collection specialist here.