The holidays are a time of joy, where many households traditionally use fireplaces and gas appliances to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. However, after the festive decorations are put away, the importance of good indoor air quality persists—especially during the colder months when we spend more time indoors. Air purifiers can play a significant role in this context.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Federal Association of Chimney Sweeps, combustion by-products from fireplaces and gas appliances, such as carbon monoxide (CO), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and particulate matter, can affect indoor air quality and pose health risks. Especially after the holidays, it is crucial to maintain heating devices and monitor the air for pollutants. Air purifiers with HEPA filters can help remove particles and pollutants from the air and reduce exposure to fine dust.
The German government, in the revised 1st Ordinance on the Federal Immission Control Act, has outlined measures to curb air pollution from small combustion plants. Heating with wood can lead to increased release of air-polluting emissions, including particulate matter and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), especially when many of these appliances are used simultaneously. These emissions can have health-hazardous consequences, from mucous membrane irritation to serious conditions such as stroke and cancer. The smallest particles can even enter the bloodstream and all organs. The dangers of air pollution from small combustion plants should not be underestimated. For this reason, open fireplaces should only be used occasionally, and closed wood-burning stoves should not be operated regularly.
Here are some measures to optimize indoor air quality after the holidays:
– Use air purifiers with high-quality filters to remove pollutants from the air.
– Install and regularly check carbon monoxide detectors, especially in bedrooms.
– Professionally inspect and maintain fireplaces and gas appliances to ensure efficient and safe operation.
– Replace air filters in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to maintain air quality.
– Ensure adequate ventilation through regular airing to avoid the accumulation of pollutants.
The Department of Energy also recommends considering energy-efficient devices with low emissions for new purchases. These measures, combined with the use of air purifiers, can contribute to improving air quality and creating a healthy indoor environment. Thus, after the holidays and throughout the winter months, we can ensure good air quality and contribute to a healthy living environment for ourselves and our loved ones.
Sources:
https://www.umweltbundesamt.de/themen/gesundheit/umwelteinfluesse-auf-den-menschen/besondere-belastungssituationen/emissionen-aus-kleinfeuerungsanlagen-in#einsatz-von-kleinfeuerungsanlagen-in-wohngebieten
https://sperdirect.com/blogs/news/breathing-easy-managing-indoor-air-quality-while-using-fireplaces-and-gas-appliances-during-the-holidays
