Smog vs. fresh air: The critical choice for apartment dwellers

The benefits of airing out your apartment during winter are widely known. Indeed, fresh air is good for both the apartment and its occupants. However, this benefit depends on the quality of air. Regrettably, the air quality in many Polish cities is severely degraded due to smog in winter. This raises the question: Is it worthwhile to air out the apartment when the outside air is heavily polluted? Let's delve into the details.

Airing out your apartment in winter is essential, unless there's smog. Letting in fresh air dispels dampness, primarily on windows, and discourages mold growth. Moreover, it positively influences the health of residents. Proper air circulation is essential to maintain lower virus and bacterial concentrations inside the apartment.

The influx of clean air helps purify your residence from residues of cosmetics and other substances that could potentially make you feel ill. Poor air circulation in rooms can affect your physical health (headaches, throat irritation, and more) and mental well-being (disturbed sleep or focus).

Smog is a widespread issue in many cities. When pollution levels peak, it's best to keep your outdoor activities to a minimum. Inhaling smog-polluted air could adversely affect your health, with risks including asthma, allergies, weakened immunity, respiratory failure, heart diseases, and disorders of the circulatory system.

If it's harmful to be outside in smog, should you allow polluted air into your home by airing it out? The sensible answer is no. Experts recommend keeping windows closed when the air quality is poor. It's advisable to constantly monitor air pollution levels using dedicated apps. As air pollution fluctuates throughout the day, you can seize the moment when it dives to a safe level to air out your apartment.

You're now aware that airing out your apartment when there's smog outside is not sensible. But when the air quality is good, do you know how to air out your apartment efficiently? There are a few techniques you should adhere to. Airing out the apartment should be brief but intense to prevent excessive heat loss—just a few minutes a day suffice. Turn off the radiators 10 minutes before airing and switch them back on after you've closed the windows—to conserve heat.