Millions of Brits may not realise the air quality in their home is insufficient. If left unchecked, the ongoing effects of this indoor pollution can affect your comfort and health in the long run.

A 2015 report shows that a staggering 17 million households in the UK could be affected by Toxic Home Syndrome – a condition increasing the likelihood of breathing problems, heart disease and even cancer.

One of the main problems is detection. It’s not easy to distinguish between good and bad air, meaning a significant number of people are at risk without knowing it. This is why an efficient ventilation system is needed.

If you’re worried about air pollution within your home, here are five possible signs you need better ventilation.

HEALTH PROBLEMS

The most obvious sign your home needs better ventilation is when inhabitants are suffering health problems.

Indoor air contains more than 900 chemicals, particles and biological materials that can eventually result in asthma, cardiovascular disease and lung cancer.

Initial warnings should be acted upon before it reaches this stage. Headaches, coughs, sneezing, fatigue and breathlessness are all early indicators of ‘bad’ air.

MOULD GROWTH

The presence of mould is another tell-tale sign of polluted oxygen. Excess humidity and a lack of air flow will generate spores on walls, ceilings and floors.

They manifest in the form of green and black spots, especially in kitchens and bathrooms with the presence of water vapour and condensation.

However, sufficient ventilation will alleviate its presence by reducing the conditions mould thrives in.

LINGERING SMELL

Unpleasant odours are a major indication of poor air quality. They occur because stale oxygen particles aren’t being recycled efficiently.

If smells linger for hours then it’s clear you don’t have sufficient ventilation. No number of plug-in fragrances or air fresheners will get rid of the problem for good.

A natural ventilation system provides a clean flow of air into the room, replacing odorous smells with fresh oxygen on an ongoing basis.

DUST

A constant build-up of dust within the home should be of concern. It carries contaminants and other allergens that will worsen respiratory and skin conditions.

Without proper ventilation, dust mites can also thrive. They feed off pollen, fungi and pet dander that all need to be exhumed regularly.

Natural ventilation systems create a clean air flow without the use of expensive mechanised equipment which is both noisy and expensive.

HOME APPLIANCES

Some homeowners may not be aware that everyday appliances, such as gas hobs and gas fires, can result in dangerous fumes being spread around the property.

Carbon monoxide and radon are killers if not stopped at source or at least properly ventilated so the effects aren’t as severe.

If your home contains potentially dangerous equipment, we strongly recommend a natural ventilation system to keep oxygen particles safe to breathe.

At LJ Pratley, our solutions can be tailored to individual properties, both domestic and commercial, to achieve the very best ventilation strategy. If you’d like more information or advice, contact us on 01277 633933 or sales@ljpratley.co.uk.

One method of natural ventilation is installing window controls. Take a look at the pros and cons of adding window controls to your home.