Stale air is defined as recycled air combined with humidity and certain chemicals. It produces an unpleasant smell as contaminants build, and oxygen decreases. While stale air won’t immediately cause you harm, the air that contains certain toxins, chemicals, and bacteria can be harmful over a long time. When indoor air smells stale or feels stuffy, carbon-based molecules that occur from breathing, form together to produce the musty smell known as stale air.
Common side effects of inhaling stale air for an extended period can include fatigue, dry skin, respiratory irritation, congestion, allergy symptoms, and headaches.
Here are some are steps to fix stale air and prevent it in the first place:
Installing Fans
Fans are incredibly helpful when it comes to air circulation. Your HVAC expels fresh, clean air, and fans can circulate that air, so it doesn’t settle. By operating your ceiling fans to switch counterclockwise during the summer, it will move the cold air down into the rooms. By running in a clockwise direction during the winter allows warm air to be distributed throughout the room.
Using Exhaust Fans
By using exhaust fans in moisture-heavy, enclosed spaces, you can air out stale, humid air. We recommend using an exhaust fan when cooking or taking a shower. Hence, condensation is limited, and the moisture doesn’t settle in spots to create mold. It’s also energy-efficient and will help shave money off your energy bill.
Replacing Air Filters Regularly
A clogged old air filter decreases air quality considerably. Mold and bacteria can build up in an old air filter and blow contaminated air into the rest of your home, creating a space for heavily contaminated air to build up. If you start to notice musty air in your home, start with your air filter to ensure your HVAC isn’t circulating contaminated air.
Opening Your Windows
Opening your windows is a simple solution to airing out your home, office, or building. It’s an easy and cost-effective way to let out the old air and bring in the fresh air. It’s essential to ensure that the air coming in is low in pollen and mold spores; otherwise, you’ll be circulating the same poor air.
Using Air Purifier
By using an air purifier, you’re working double-time with your air filter to ensure the cleanest air possible. POLAIR recommends the REME-HALO Air Purifier because it isn’t stationary like ordinary air purifiers. It installs into your air duct, so it works with your AC unit to reach every inch of your home. This product actively kills airborne bacteria and surface germs to prevent illness, allergies, and flare-ups for the immunocompromised.
Stale air isn’t terrible for you, but if left untreated, it could cause more significant air quality issues down the road. A well-maintained HVAC system should decrease humidity and circulate fresh air. Increasing a room’s ventilation to combat moisture and poor circulation can reduce any stale air you might experience.
