Should you ventilate your flat in winter when there is SMOG outside the window?

Winter is a difficult time for almost everyone, and it is not just about the low temperatures outside. Dry air in the home is not conducive to good health, and neither is the smog outside. A supply of fresh air is very important. It improves not only our health, but also our well-being. The question arises, however, whether to ventilate the flat when the concentration of particulate matter outside is high? Should you refrain from ventilating the flat and leave the windows closed, or is it the other way round?

Should I ventilate my flat in winter?

In winter, there is usually very dry air indoors. The heating of radiators dries out the air even more, making it necessary to ventilate the flat. And let’s not forget, dust and airborne mites. In addition, a lack of ventilation, also in winter, can cause the development of mould and fungus, which is dangerous to our health and, in some cases, life.  Therefore, we should not forget to open the windows regularly throughout the year. Unfortunately, smog has been a very serious problem for a long time and it does not only affect large cities. In addition, when the concentration of particulate matter is at its highest, local authorities call for people to avoid long walks and not to leave their homes. And this is where a major problem arises: should we air out the flat when we know there is smog outside? How do we take care of the quality of the air we breathe at home?

Should you ventilate your home during smog?

When particulate matter concentrations are high, it is better to refrain from ventilating the premises. If we do, we run the risk of letting pollutants into our home. Of course, we can control pollution levels through special mobile apps, or by buying an air purifier. Smog data are also provided by the local media. These are compiled by specialists, and therefore their reliability should not cause us any concern. However, it does happen that the air inside the flat is worse than outside. In the latter case, an air purifier will come to our aid, with a carbon and HEPA filter to eliminate pollutants. Take devices continuously monitor the indoor air quality and switch on automatically when it is too low.

How do you ventilate your home in winter?

If the level of air pollution outside is not high, we should decide to ventilate the rooms. And here, it is not the quantity but the quality that counts. So, it is best to open all windows and doors as wide as possible for a few minutes, rather than leaving one or two ajar for longer.

How often should I ventilate my flat in winter?

It is recommended to ventilate at least once – twice a day, in the morning and in the evening, just before bedtime. Of course, smog can be a bit of a nuisance and prevent ventilation, although, as soon as it is possible, we should not give it up.

Will efficient ventilation help to air out a flat in winter?

Mechanical ventilation can be an effective solution for improving the microclimate in interiors. The air taken in from outside passes through an exchanger, where it is heated and purified, and only then is it blown into the rooms. In addition, mechanical ventilation reduces the concentration of carbon dioxide and gets rid of dust and allergens.

Ventilating the rooms, even in winter, is advisable. However, it is important to monitor the level of pollution on an ongoing basis.