We all know that airing out the house is beneficial, but we may not always know how often and for how long it should be done to be truly effective, and why it is so important.
When it comes to airing the air, people can usually be divided into two main categories. In one category are those who fanatically open their windows as soon as they wake up in the morning, regardless of whether it is sunny, rainy or snowy outside, and leave the windows open for a long time. In the other category are those who open the windows reluctantly, only for a few moments, a minute or two, only occasionally, when they remember or when the weather conditions seem “appropriate”.
We know that ventilation is essential in everyday life, but here's why it's so important and how long it's desirable to last.
Reduces the concentration of microorganisms and harmful particles
"It is true that opening windows can bring dust, pollen and pollutants into the home. However, airing the home is always a healthy habit, because it reduces the accumulation of carbon dioxide that is produced at night, as well as other chemical compounds that may be present in the indoor environment. It also helps limit the density of microorganisms that multiply in closed spaces, especially in humid or poorly disinfected environments," explains María Dolores Cima Cabal, biologist and director of the master's program in environmental and energy management at the Universidad Internacional de la Rioja, reports the Telegraph.
Rules for good ventilation (without losing thermal energy)
Both Cima Cabal and Prof. Nistal agree that airing should last between 10 and 20 minutes.
"This is enough time to renew the air without unnecessarily wasting thermal energy used for heating during the winter," says Cima Cabal.
Prof. Nistal recommends airing early in the morning, when the concentration of heat in the air is lower. This way, once the windows are closed again, the initial temperature is restored within a few minutes, avoiding unnecessary heat loss.
How to optimize air exchange
To ventilate the house as quickly and efficiently as possible, it is useful to create cross ventilation, by opening windows on opposite sides of the apartment, to create air currents that ensure a rapid change of air (in this case, only 5 minutes are enough). The windows should be opened completely, not just in a tilted position, because during the winter this would dissipate a lot of heat and would not allow rapid air circulation, promoting heat loss and cooling of the walls. This quick process can be carried out 2–3 times a day (in the morning, afternoon and evening before bedtime).
What to avoid
When the smog level outside is high, it is good to ventilate the house for a few minutes, about 5–10, creating air currents and, above all, choosing the right time. The best is early in the morning, when the air is cleaner, after dark or late in the evening, when traffic is less intense, opening opposite windows for faster air exchange.
Less accumulation of pathogenic organisms
Although ventilation does not make a house sterile, air exchange reduces the possibility of pathogenic microorganisms accumulating in closed spaces, reducing the risk of infections for residents. Virologist Nistal explains that living in a sterile environment is not necessary, since our immune system is capable of interacting with most microorganisms. The goal of ventilation should not be to create a sterile environment, but to maintain air quality.
Should you air every day even if you live alone?
"It is true that ventilation significantly reduces the risk of spreading respiratory diseases among people who share the same apartment, but it should be a regular practice even if you live alone," emphasizes Cima Cabal.
"Although it is not a magic solution, it remains an excellent practice for creating a healthy living environment, regardless of the number of people living there," adds Nistal.
What if you don't ventilate?
Air exchange during the winter is very important, because harmful and potentially toxic substances are produced in the home, such as dust, carbon monoxide released from the stove flame, carbon dioxide, and water vapor created by daily activities such as washing, showering, drying clothes, or simply the presence of people.
All of these substances reduce the amount of oxygen available in the environment. Without proper air exchange, they accumulate, creating a stuffy, poor-quality environment. So-called “stagnant air” can cause watery eyes, headaches, difficulty breathing, and poor concentration. /Telegraph/
