Did you know that the air quality inside your house fluctuates throughout the year thanks to the changing seasons?
“Each season brings its own air quality challenges and changes, and as the outdoor air quality changes, the air inside our homes, offices and other enclosed spaces also change. These changes bring different pollutants, humidity variations and temperature shifts and have a direct impact on the quality of the air we breathe,” says Bianca Leonard, marketing manager at lifestyle technology expert, Solenco.
“With winter now fast approaching, people living on the highveld are going to experience much drier air which can worsen respiratory problems like asthma, bronchitis and sinusitis. Low humidity can also dry out the mucous membranes, making people more susceptible to infections,” Leonard says.
For the coastal and winter rainfall areas humidity or dampness becomes an issue which can lead to the growth of mould and dust mites. High winds along the coastal areas bring dust and sand into homes.
“Winter – because we tend to close windows and rely on heating systems – produces some of the worst indoor air quality issues. This is due to poor ventilation which traps pollutants (volatile organic compounds, carbon dioxide and allergens) inside. These pollutants can become concentrated, increasing the risk of respiratory issues, headaches, and other health problems,” she says.
Symptoms often associated with air quality issues include sneezing, a runny nose, dry skin, frequent colds or respiratory infections, lack of sleep and fatigue.
Leonard says understanding the air quality and what can be done to improve it, is not always easy. “We become used to the way our environment smells and even how it makes us feel without realising the actual impact air quality has on our lives and health,” she says.
“Air purifiers, humidifiers and dehumidifiers can play a significant role in addressing your particular air quality issue, it’s just a matter of finding out which piece of technology can deal with your specific air issues,” she says.
“To help our customers seeking air quality products suited to their specific needs, we have developed a quiz which allows you to customise answers to your particular set of circumstances. For instance, someone in Johannesburg with concerns over pollution will get advice on how to mitigate the effects of pollution by using an air purifier,” she explains.
High humidity calls for a dehumidifier, where targeting mould calls for an air purifier. If you live in a dry climate, then a humidifier will work best, but when you have pets, an air purifier is also a consideration, she says. The quiz aims to help individuals navigate unique situations.
Results already show that a lot of homeowners are reporting issues related to lack of sleep quality and headaches, while associated mould and dampness have been particular concerns, she says.
“Air quality is an important part of our wellbeing and comfort, paying attention to it can improve your health and quality of life, especially as we enter a change of season” says Leonard.