A typical modern home relies on its HVAC system for ventilation, keeping the windows closed at all times. If this is how your home is set up, read on as Masters Roofing discusses the benefits of opening your windows regularly.
Improved Indoor Air Quality
According to the U.S. EPA, indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air. This is due to indoor air pollutants coming from various sources: dust, mold and pet dander among them. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are substances off-gassed from common household items such as plastics, paint and aerosol-based products. Furniture made from pressed wood chips may release wood preservative particles in the air. In a closed environment, the substances mentioned above can accumulate over time.
Letting fresh air through the windows helps flush out indoor air pollutants and keeps indoor air within healthy levels. It also helps reduce the risks of triggering symptoms associated with respiratory illnesses like asthma and allergies, prevents mold growth and reduces persistent odors.
Lower AC Usage
A cooling breeze can serve as an alternative means to cool your home and save on your cooling costs. Given the higher demand for cooling during the summer season, your air conditioning system can use a break while you cool your home naturally. Regular breaks in AC usage can also help reduce wear on its mechanical components and lower the risks of a sudden breakdown. Additionally, the lower concentration of indoor air pollutants can give your HVAC air filters a longer service life.
How to Get Efficient Airflow Through Your Windows
Efficient airflow is key to flushing out indoor air pollutants and cooling your home. To create airflow, you need to have two openings in a room: the first one vents stale indoor air that creates a pressure difference, which pulls fresh air through a second opening. The easiest way to do this is to open two windows. In smaller rooms, you can open a sliding or double-hung window with the sashes situated in the middle, creating two openings. Keep the windows open for at least 15 minutes a day and you can enjoy the benefits discussed above.
When you need windows that facilitate efficient ventilation, give our team at Masters Roofing a call at (901) 871-7663. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve Memphis, TN, and the surrounding communities.