Few buildings are designed to have ideal air exchange and a pleasant climate in all seasons. But there is an elegant solution to most shortcomings - and you don't have to dig deep into your pockets for it right away or move straight into a new building with built-in heat recovery and air conditioning.
When the air is dry at home
Dry air problems are a particular problem in many urban dwellings. The consequences come quickly: dry skin, dry lips and mucous membranes in the nose and throat, irritating cough.
The situation is worse in winter when radiators dry out the room. How to cope with dry air?
1. Ventilate, but properly. Always open the window wide and let the air in the room change quickly. Just ventilate for about half a minute to a minute when the air inside changes to fresh air without cooling the walls. If it's cold outside, leaving windows open for long periods of time to ventilate will only cool the window surroundings, causing water to precipitate on the glass and favorable conditions for mold to form.
2. No micro-ventilation in winter. Newer windows allow for micro-ventilation, where windows are not tightly closed, and air can flow between the frame and sash. But forget about it in the heating season and don't use it at all in the winter.
3. Get more greenery. Flowers increase the relative humidity in a room, but hand on heart, one pot won't make a noticeable change in the air. To solve the problem of a dry climate with flowers, you'll need to turn your home into a literal jungle.
4. Get a smart humidifier. There is a plethora of humidifiers on the market, few will really help. Avoid buying cheap half-measures and invest in a smart humidifier. The one from Tesla Smart, for example, features an ultrasonic atomizer, monitors its own water level, and communicates with your smartphone. For example, it can automatically start when you approach home.