With the introduction of social distancing and isolation from Covid-19 most of us are likely to be spending more time at home than we are used to. The quality of your internal air is something to be mindful of as you adjust to a new way of life for an indeterminate period.

We spend 90% of our time indoors, and until recently 60% of that time was in the home, that percentage will now increase. Click here to see our previous blog on the importance of microbial pollution.

With more people in your home for extended periods of time the air will be more humid than usual as a result of common activities – “..some one put the kettle on..!” – and so on. “High humidity levels can affect allergies and complicate respiratory diseases brought on by certain biological agents such as mites and mildew.”1

Each home will have a different construction, finishes, occupation pattern, geographic location, and so forth, so you should be alert to your specific circumstances. Be mindful of the following possible signs:

*  Feeling tired, drowsy or unable to concentrate while working;
* Developing headaches, hypersensitivity and allergies or sinus congestion (note headaches can be affected by incorrect light levels); 
* Condensation collecting on the internal face of glazing;
* Condensation visible on walls and ceilings at high level corners of rooms.

To help to manage signs of high humidity levels ventilation may require adjustment. Experiment with different measures, such as:

* Open the window to half-catch;
* Open the trickle vents;
* Create a through-flow of air around the property by opening doors and windows;
* Go outside (if safely possible) for a change of atmosphere.

Click here to refer to an earlier blog on ventilation management for greater detail.

After a period of time you may start to develop a closer relationship with your home than you might ever have had the opportunity to do. Use this time to tune in to your surroundings and learn how to make those subtle adjustments for the benefit of your overall physical and mental wellbeing. Most importantly keep safe.

1 https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/homes-and-property/interiors/sort-it-poor-ventilation-can-have-serious-health-consequences-1.2829959