Should doors be left open in winter?

The cold weather makes many people hesitate to open windows in winter. However, is it good to always keep windows closed in winter? Should we open windows in winter or not? Let's find out together!

Benefits of opening windows

• Improve air quality: Opening windows can reduce indoor air pollutants such as carbon dioxide, fumes from cleaning products, and byproducts of cooking fuels.
• Control humidity: Dry winter air can be hard on your skin and lungs. Fresh air can help regulate indoor humidity, preventing excessive dryness.
• Deodorizing: Even with the use of a range hood or exhaust fan, food odors still permeate every corner of your home.
• Mental Health: Darkness until 5pm can be a bit depressing, but opening a window will help. Some people find fresh air refreshing and it can help improve mood and overall sense of well-being.

Should windows be left open all year round?

It depends on your specific circumstances and preferences.

In general, it is not a good idea to leave your windows open all year round. In the winter, keeping them closed to retain heat will save you more energy, while in the summer you may want to open them to ventilate your home.

When you open a window, your air conditioning unit will kick in to compensate for the heat or cool air escaping. This can reduce the energy efficiency of the unit and increase your energy bill. However, you may decide that the benefits of fresh air outweigh the costs.

If you're trying to improve indoor air quality, control humidity, or simply enjoy the benefits of fresh air, opening a window every now and then can be helpful.

The key is to strike a balance, ensuring that this does not result in excessive heat loss or discomfort. Opening windows for short periods on mild winter days can help achieve benefits without overworking your air conditioning system.

Leave windows open in winter if...

In stuffy or damp rooms: Kitchens and bathrooms benefit from fresh air exchange by reducing odors and moisture, but it's best to keep the relative humidity in your home between 35% and 55%. An inexpensive thermometer and relative humidity meter can help show the impact of a slightly open window and alert you to close it if too much damp/cold air is coming in.

When outdoor air quality is good: Air pollution contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are harmful to your lungs. Bringing fresh air into your home can dilute the VOCs, which can reduce the impact on people who are sensitive to chemicals, unless the outdoor air is more polluted than the indoor air.

On warmer, sunnier days: Give your air conditioning system a break by taking advantage of the good weather and natural heat from the sun. If you are sensitive to airborne allergens and dust, ventilation can reduce these contaminants. However, be mindful of humidity. Mold spores thrive in moist environments.