RW - foRWard Health & Wellbeing eMag - Feb26 - Flipbook - Page 41
AIR FIRST
Indoor air is often more polluted than outdoor
air. Moisture, mould and poor ventilation
drive respiratory symptoms and asthma. The
World Health Organization’s guidance is clear.
Prevent and 昀椀x damp, control condensation
and ensure effective ventilation. If there is
visible mould, remove it safely and 昀椀x the
source of moisture, not just the stain.
In Australia, the evidence base is
strengthening as housing becomes tighter
for energy ef昀椀ciency. CSIRO research shows
that well sealed homes are more comfortable
and can have healthier air, provided you also
ensure controlled ventilation. Without it, low
air昀氀ow raises the risk of condensation and
poor indoor air. The practical take away is
simple. Seal, then ventilate on purpose with
trickle vents, exhausts that actually vent
outdoors, or a balanced system with heat
recovery where feasible
DAY TO DAY MOVES:
• Run kitchen and bathroom
exhausts during and after
cooking or showering.
• Open opposing windows for
a short cross breeze when
outdoor air is good.
• Use a certi昀椀ed HEPA air
puri昀椀er during smoke events
or allergy season and replace
昀椀lters on schedule.
• Avoid un昀氀ued gas heaters
and limit indoor burning that
creates particulates.
For more on indoor air, see
Australian Government
guidance which covers
ventilation, puri昀椀ers and wood
heater alternatives.
THERMAL COMFORT
Thermal comfort is not only
about set points. It is also about
air movement, humidity, clothing
and activity. Australian green
building guidance expects
comfortable conditions for
almost all occupied hours.
At home this means good
insulation, draught management,
shading and smart zoning so
bedrooms can stay cooler at
night without over conditioning
the whole house.
Quick wins:
• Shade east and west glazing
with external blinds or
deciduous planting.
• Seal obvious leaks around
doors and downlights, then
verify with a blower door test
if you can access one.
• Use ceiling fans to extend
comfort without overcooling
or overheating.
