Improving Your Home’s Ventilation
Good ventilation is one of those things that you probably don’t think all that much about. But, it’s one of those things that you probably should give more of your time and attention to. A home’s ventilation really can make all the difference in how healthy it is. Not to mention how it smells!
Let’s take a look at what you can do to improve ventilation in your home right now.
Let it Breathe
First things first: let your house breathe. It sounds obvious, but simply opening windows regularly is one of the easiest ways to refresh indoor air. Even cracking a window for ten minutes a day can help flush out stale air and bring in oxygen-rich fresh air. If you’ve got windows on opposite sides of the house, open them at the same time to create cross-ventilation. Nature does the hard work for you.
Exhaust Fans are Important
Next, you’re going to want to take a look at your home’s exhaust fans. Bathrooms and kitchens are humidity hotspots, and without proper ventilation, all that moisture hangs around, creating the perfect environment for mold and mildew. Make sure your bathroom fan actually vents outside (not just into the attic), and run it during and after showers.
In the kitchen, always use your range hood when cooking, especially if you’re frying, boiling, or accidentally burning dinner. We’ve all been there.
Show Your HVAC Some Love
Your HVAC system also plays a big role in air circulation. Changing your air filters regularly is a small task that makes a big impact. Dirty filters restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder while circulating dust and allergens around your home. Aim to replace filters every one to three months, depending on pets, allergies, and how often you run your system.
Fireplaces and Chimneys
Don’t forget about areas you might overlook, like fireplaces and chimneys. A blocked or dirty chimney can seriously affect airflow and even push smoke and pollutants back into your living space. Regular chimney cleaning isn’t just about fire safety; it also helps ensure proper ventilation and keeps air moving the way it should. Plus, a clean chimney means fewer weird smells drifting through the house when the fireplace isn’t in use.
Houseplants Can Help
Houseplants can help too, and they look good while doing it. While they’re not a substitute for proper ventilation, certain plants can help improve indoor air quality and regulate humidity. Snake plants and succulents are good because they are very easy to look after, almost thriving on neglect, and they will clear the air very effectively.
How Does it Feel?
Finally, pay attention to how your home feels. Do some rooms feel stuffier than others? That could be a sign of poor airflow or blocked vents. Make sure furniture or rugs aren’t covering air returns, and consider using ceiling or portable fans to keep air circulating, especially in rooms that don’t get much natural airflow.
Here’s to a better ventilated, less stuffy, better smelling home!
