Fresh air is an essential, life sustaining element. But what few people realize is indoor air quality can be as much as 10 times more polluted than the air outside. A few contaminants include toxic chemicals, dust, mold, carbon monoxide, radon, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). That is why you need proper ventilation. It will clear out old, stale air so you get more of the vital oxygen you need. Fresh air draws out toxins, relieves stress, boosts the immune system and so much more. But how do you improve ventilation in your home? Here are just a few ideas you can implement.

1. Open Windows and Doors

The best and oldest method for inviting fresh air inside is by opening windows and exterior doors. You will feel immediate improvement in the air quality. And you can capitalize on cross breezes by opening windows on opposite sides of the home. This improves the circulation throughout the house. Older homes were not sealed as tight and had more natural ventilation. But with improved building materials, better insulation, and tighter seals, you really need to open up your home if you want to get rid of stale, humid air.

2. Turn On Exhaust Fans

If your exhaust fans vent to the outside, they can be a valuable asset to ventilate your home. So use them! If you can, close off these areas of your home, like the kitchen and bathroom, until the foul or humid air clears out. And if there is a window, crack it so fresh air can pull inside as the stale air gets forced out.

3. Run Ceiling Fans

If you have them, run your ceiling and window fans on cooler evenings. Make sure the blades are tilted in the right direction to push air down while the fan runs counterclockwise at a higher speed. Keeping the air moving will make the temperature feel eight degrees cooler so you won’t need to use the air conditioning as much.

4. Open Interior Doors

If you are not cooking or showering, you should keep the doors inside your home open. This will help circulate the air and keep stale air from lingering in a small space.

5. Vent the Utility Room and Attic

These are areas of your home that are commonly exposed to high heat and humidity. If you haven’t before, touch your attic door on a hot day and see how warm it is. The insulation in your attic can only do so much. Heat needs a place to escape and vents or fans can help.

Best Windows for Ventilation

If you are looking to improve your home ventilation with replacement windows, you will want to find the right style. Some of the best options for ventilation include casement, single-hung, double-hung, sliding, and bay windows. All of these styles allow you to control ventilation for maximum comfort and fresh air.

Interested in learning more on how to improve the ventilation of your new windows in Highland Park, IL? Contact Scientific Home Services. You can call (847) 752-0370 or stop by 7240 Saint Louis Ave., Skokie, IL 60076 to set up an appointment. They will walk you through the best options for ventilation and give you a free, no-pressure quote.