Winter and lack of ventilation can be a harmful combination.
According to Nyheder24.dk, a recent member survey conducted by LB Insurance reveals that 42% of people do not ventilate their homes sufficiently during winter. Inadequate ventilation can have serious consequences for both health and home, potentially leading to the development of mold.
The Importance of Proper Ventilation
Anne Mette Kirkegaard, Vice Director in Damage and Law at LB Insurance, emphasizes the importance of ventilation for both personal well-being and the health of the home.
Without proper ventilation, indoor air can become heavy and polluted with high levels of CO2, emanating from cooking odors and chemicals from products like hairspray and deodorants. This poor air quality can lead to headaches, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. It can also create conditions favorable for mold growth due to stagnant, moist air.
Candle Usage and Indoor Air Quality The use of candles, particularly during the dark winter months and Christmas season, can further deteriorate indoor air quality. Candles release many particles that are harmful to both health and the indoor environment. LB Insurance advises trimming the wick of candles to minimize particle spread and avoiding drafts when lighting them. They also suggest reducing the use of real candles and considering alternatives like LED lights.
Ventilation Tips LB Insurance recommends ventilating 2-3 times daily for 5-10 minutes each time. Despite these guidelines, 42% admit to not ventilating enough, often due to concerns about heating bills. However, ventilating can actually be more cost-effective, as heavy, moist air takes longer to heat, requiring more energy. Regular ventilation can therefore be beneficial for both health and finances.
Simple Habits for Better Ventilation To improve ventilation habits, LB Insurance suggests making it a routine, such as ventilating when waking up, brushing teeth, or cooking. Turning on the exhaust fan during cooking is essential to remove steam and grease, and it's important to ventilate after showering to manage moisture. Drying clothes outside or in well-ventilated areas is also recommended.
