There are many lessons to be learned from the COVID-19 pandemic years. One of the most important is that clean air matters. Proper ventilation and good air quality is important for our health. We spend so much of our lives indoors, so being regularly exposed to clean air is crucial for our physical and mental health. For this week’s Wellness Wednesday, we’re clearing the air by taking a look at the importance of good ventilation practices at home.
Clean Air, Clean Bill of Health
Particulates and pollutants in the air can cause a variety of health problems. Dirty air could trigger asthma attacks, coughing, or irritate your lungs. It can also lead to long-term health issues like cardiovascular disease and lung damage. Proper ventilation and filtration can reduce respiratory infections by reducing the spread of bacteria and viral bodies. Improving your air quality can also help reduce the spread of airborne diseases like COVID-19, influenza, and pneumonia.
Clear Your Mind
In addition to improving your health, studies have found there are cognitive benefits to clean indoor air. Researchers discovered that people working in an environment with higher concentrations of particulate matter and poorer ventilations displayed reduced concentration, slower response times to cognitive-heavy tasks, and less accuracy in their work. Poor air quality has also been linked to increased anxiety.
Blow Away Mold
Improved ventilation and filtration can also help reduce moisture from building up in your home. Keeping your home clean, dry, and free from lingering water damage is crucial for combating the growth of mold and mildew in your home. Mold and mildew spores can act as allergens and irritants; inhaling these spores over time could lead to health complications.
Keep Things Fresh
A simple way to improve the quality of air in your home is to keep fresh air circulating in from outside. Whenever possible “air out” your home by opening windows and cracking open doors. You don’t even need to open them all the while: even a tiny crack can improve ventilation. If you have pets, it may be worth investing in a screen door and/or window screens; that way you can enjoy the benefits of fresh air without worrying about your pets making a dash for it.
Change Your Filters
If you have a heating/cooling system in your home, it’s important to stay on top of changing the filters. A disposable filter can last an average of 3 to 9 months, depending on the thickness and quality of the filter. Check the packaging: the manufacturer should list the expected lifespan for their filters. Not changing your filters is a problem because they will eventually clog from all the dirt, grime, allergens, and/or pet dander that get trapped in the filter. A clogged filter will stop cleaning your air and can also impact the proper functioning of your HVAC system. This is an easily preventable problem: set a calendar reminder for yourself to change out your filter when it hits its manufacturer's expiration month.
Fan the Flow
Another way to improve your air quality is to use fans. Fans can improve air flow in the home and help steer harmful particulates out the door. The key is to place fans close to open windows and direct the fans to blow outside the window. Avoid pointing fans directly at people; while pointing a fan at them will cool them down, it could also mean they’re getting a faceful of contaminated air.
Article by Austin Brietta
Want more wellness tips? Check out these stories: