Clean, fresh air is essential in sustaining life. On average a person breathes 12,000 liters of oxygen in a day. Unfortunately, people spend the majority of their day inside without realizing indoor air can be five times more polluted than outdoor air. With better building materials, insulation, doors, and windows new homes are sealed up tight. And while this is good for efficient cooling and heating, it means stale air full of contaminants gets trapped inside. From opening interior doors to getting window replacement in Danville, CA, here are a few things homeowners can do to improve ventilation in the home:

Keep Interior Doors Open

Many homeowners tend to close off unused areas of their home, thinking this will save money on heating and cooling. What they don’t realize is the HVAC system has to work harder when rooms are closed off, preventing natural air flow. It is more efficient to open all vents and keep interior doors open to help circulate the air. This also prevents the air from getting stale.

Turn on Ceiling Fans

Another way to improve ventilation and air flow is by employing the ceiling fans. During warmer months, homeowners should run fans counterclockwise at higher speeds. This can make any space feel five to eight degrees cooler. During colder months, homeowners should switch the fan’s direction, running clockwise to circulate warm air from the ceiling back down towards the floor. This will help keep the air moving and reduce the strain on heating and air conditioning.

Use Exhaust Fans

Most homes have exhaust fans homeowners can use in kitchens and bathrooms. These should vent to the outside, that way humid or smelly air won’t circulate through the living space. To keep air fresh homeowners should use vents when cooking or showering. It also helps to crack a couple of windows to pull fresh air back inside the home and force the stale air out. Homeowners can employ window mounted fans in a similar manner.

Change Air Filters

Another way to get rid of dust and contagions in the air is by checking the air filters once a month. These appliances trap dust, pollen, dander, and dirt so it does not circulate through the HVAC system and back into the air. During peak use, the filters clog faster, which is why checking and replacing them as needed is so important.

Invest in Window Replacement

Perhaps homeowners don’t get enough ventilation because they have the wrong windows. Some of the top styles for ventilation include casement, sliding, single hung, and double hung windows. Placement is also important in generating cross breezes to help move air through the home.

If you have questions about window replacement in Danville, CA contact us today. With over 20 years of experience, the experts at Quality Windows and Doors Inc. can help you choose the best styles for better ventilation in your home. To schedule an appointment call (925) 484-1747. Or to check out products stop by 3732 Stanley Blvd. Ste. B, Pleasanton, CA 94566.