Breathe Easy: Ventilation Guide

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Breathe Easy

Improving air quality at home through ventilation

We spend 80-90% of our time indoors, so the air we breathe at home has a big impact on our wellbeing. Exposure to poor indoor air quality can cause a range of health issues, including respiratory illness, heart disease, cognitive impairment, and cancer.

There will always be some level of pollutants in the air you breathe - the key to reducing our risk is to keep those levels as low as possible.

Take a tour with us, and see how even small, simple habits can improve the air we breathe!

What is Ventilation

Ventilation moves stale or polluted air out, and brings fresh air in.

This helps:

reduce the concentration of indoor air pollutants, such as carbon monoxide, radon, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as well as particulate matter (PM) from dust, smoke and allergens.
limit the buildup of moisture (which can contribute to mould).
control odours.

Throughout our story, your score will increase when your chosen actions contribute to better indoor air quality.

Long day

Sniff test

Try the sniff test

When you first enter your home from the outside, it should smell fresh/neutral. If you can smell residual cooking odours, garbage, perfumes or mustiness, you may need better ventilation!

Even if your home smells fresh, if you aren’t regularly opening windows or using bathroom or kitchen fans, you should consider increasing ventilation as a way to improve indoor air quality.

Make it a habit to open doors and windows to let fresh air in, regularly using bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans to let stale air out and using fans to circulate air in and out of rooms.

Kitchen tea

Mould and mildew

Moisture in the air can lead to mould and mildew.

{% if responses['Kitchen tea'].you_turn_off_the_kettle_and == 'wipe_off_your_glasses' %}

You wipe the steam off your glasses +0 . This will help you see more clearly, but it won’t impact air quality!

Excessive moisture can lead to mould and mildew - so if things get steamy, ventilate by turning on an exhaust fan and/or opening doors and windows.

{% elsif responses['Kitchen tea'].you_turn_off_the_kettle_and == 'grab_a_tea_towel_and_wipe_down_the_cabinet' %}

You wipe down the cabinet +2 It’s a good idea to keep kitchen counters and cabinets dry. This will keep them from getting damaged and discourage mould and mildew.

{% else %}

You turned on the exhaust fan +10

{% endif %}

Even better, turn on the exhaust fan and/or open a window before you start boiling or cooking, and keep it on until you are done.

Kitchen dinner

DELETETHIS

Pollutants get released in the air when you cook, especially when using a gas stove.

{% if responses['Kitchen dinner'].time_to_prep == 'try_out_your_new_air_fryer' %}

An air fryer may help you cut calories, but it won’t do much to reduce air pollution +0. In fact, research has shown that air fryers produce fine particulate matter (PM). So if you want to air fry up your dinner - go for it! Just make sure your kitchen is well ventilated.

{% elsif responses['Kitchen dinner'].time_to_prep == 'take_out_your_wok_and_put_in_on_the_back_burner' %} Using the back burner will keep you from directly breathing in potentially hazardous fumes from cooking +2 It’s also helpful to match the burner size to the size of the cookware - and on most stoves the medium sized all-purpose burners are in the back. {% else %}

Cooking on the back burner and using the range hood +10 is a great idea, since pollutants such as particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and carbon monoxide (CO) get released in the air when you cook, especially when using a gas stove. The fan will vent more effectively from the back burners than the front, which are usually only partially covered by the hood fan.

{% endif %}

Using the back burner and the range hood (preferably on high) while you cook will help reduce particles and gases by more than 80%. So, get into the habit of using your range hood or fan every time you cook!

Bathroom tub

Mould and mildew bathroom

Mould and mildew love damp spaces.

{% if responses['Bathroom tub'].what_do_you_think == 'meh_its_probably_just_stains_from_your_new_body_wash' %}

That’s probably mould or mildew! Leaving it untreated -2 can cause damage to your home and be a risk to your health, especially for those sensitive to mould. You should clean it up as soon as possible.

{% elsif responses['Bathroom tub'].what_do_you_think == 'could_be_mildew_you_make_a_mental_note_to_deal_with_it_over_the_weekend'%}

That’s right! Mould and mildew can do damage to your home when left untreated and be a risk to your health, especially if you are sensitive to mould. You make a note to clean it soon +2

{% elsif responses['Bathroom tub'].what_do_you_think == 'sighbetter_deal_with_it_you_grab_that_bottle_of_commercial_cleaner' %}

{% else %}

The longer it's left untreated, the more damage it can do to your home, and the greater the risk to your health, especially for those sensitive to mould. You clean up mould and mildew immediately with some hot soapy water +10 , avoiding the harsh smells and chemicals of commercial cleaners.

{% endif %}

No need for bleach!
Many cleaning products can release irritating chemicals. Use non-toxic household cleaners or make your own. To help keep your home free of mould and mildew, common household products such as unscented detergent, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide or baking soda will do the trick!

Shower mould

Hot, moist air is the perfect environment… for mould.

{% if responses['Shower'].before_stepping_in__you == 'keep_the_door_closed_you_want_it_to_feel_like_you_are_in_a_sauna' %}

We get it - feels good to be in a steamy hot room, especially when it is cold out! Problem is, all that locked in moisture. -2 can damage cabinets and paint over time. And mould and mildew love dark damp places!

Excessive moisture can lead to mould and mildew - so if things get steamy, ventilate by turning on a fan and/or opening doors and windows.

{% elsif responses['Shower'].before_stepping_in__you == 'doodle_in_the_foggy_mirror_before_turning_on_the_bathroom_fan' %}

You watch your artwork disappear as the fan helps pull the moist air out +5 Remember to keep it running even after your shower is done, for at least 15 minutes!

{% else %}

You turned on the exhaust fan +10 This means that you allow moisture the chance to build up - good choice!

{% endif %}

Don’t have a fan, or need a new one? Look for the EnergyStar logo- you’ll be sure to get one that is energy efficient, and quieter too! Find certified products using the EnergyStar product finder (note, you’ll be directed to the US website – just select “Canada” as your market. )

You finish your shower. Ah…that was relaxing. You hang up the damp towel to let it dry +2

Shower

Living room

Building materials

Building and renovation materials can be hazardous!

{% if responses['Living room'].you_should == 'close_the_door' %}

Simply ignoring the issue +0 won’t help! Building and renovation materials like flooring, paints, varnishes and glues can release gases and other contaminants in the air such as formaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

{% elsif responses['Living room'].you_should == 'throw_a_tarp_over_the_cans' %}

Building and renovation materials like flooring, paints, varnishes and glues can release gases and other contaminants in the air such as formaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Adding a bit of ventilation by opening the window +2 is a good idea, but those paint cans need to be properly sealed and stored safely.

{% else %}

Building and renovation materials like flooring, paints, varnishes and glues can release gases and other contaminants in the air such as formaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Thankfully it is the low-VOC product you chose. You close the paint cans to make sure they are sealed and stored properly. +10

{% endif %}

Choose low-VOC products wherever possible, and make sure all potentially hazardous products are sealed, labelled and stored safely.
Off gassing from new furniture or carpeting can also be hazardous. Keep the area well ventilated by opening up windows and letting fresh air in.

Cold

Fireplaces

Fireplaces can be a source of air pollution, including CO, NOx, and VOCs!

{% if responses['Cold'].you_decide_to_make_a_wood_fire == 'tearing_up_some_old_magazines' %}

You throw in some torn magazines -2. Treated or coated paper releases noxious fumes, so only use kindling or newspaper to start your fire.

{% elsif responses['Cold'].you_decide_to_make_a_wood_fire == 'pick_out_some_kindling' %}

Burning logs will emit a number of chemicals. To reduce the amount of smoke produced, burn only dry, split wood +0

{% else %}

You opened the flue +10 . A flue (or damper) should always be open when a fire is burning in the fireplace. If it's closed, the smoke has nowhere to go but inside your home.

{% endif %}

Before you light that fire, make sure the flue is open and the chimney is clean. Inadequate ventilation of the fireplace can lead to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. Without proper airflow, this dangerous gas can build up in your home. This is also true for gas fireplaces. Have your fireplace inspected annually to make sure it is functioning properly and free of debris such as leaves or nests.

Never burn green, wet, treated or painted wood, garbage, plastic, cardboard or glossy or bleached paper. Doing so releases toxic emissions inside and outside of your home.

Choose your products wisely

Choose your products wisely.

{% if responses['Fire crackles'].there_are_markers_paints_glitter == 'sit_down_and_start_making' %}

You get really into this and make an abstract painting +0 of your cat. This is fun. You should really do this more.

{% else %}

Hobbies such as arts and crafts can be relaxing, inspiring, and fun. But when you aren’t using them, paints, glues etc should be safely stored away. +5

{% endif %}

Take care with hobbies like arts and crafts. Some products can release gases and particles that can cause health problems, like shortness of breath, dizziness, or an allergic reaction.
Check labels and choose low-VOC materials where possible. Keep your workspace well ventilated.

Fire crackles

Glitter

Clean regularly

Clean regularly to keep dust, debris and allergens under control.

{% if responses['Glitter'].you_spilled_the_glitter == 'leave_it_be' %}

Okay, so you aren’t a clean freak and don’t want to deal with it right now +0 But both sawdust and glitter can make not only a mess- they can be irritants to your skin, eyes, and lungs.

{% elsif responses['Glitter'].you_spilled_the_glitter == 'quickly_sweep_up_glitter_and_sawdust' %}

Sweepingcan be a good way to quickly pick up larger messes +2, but it can miss finer dust and materials. It can also send the dust and dirt airborne. Mopping and vacuuming are more efficient ways of trapping and removing dust, dirt and allergens from the home.

{% else %}

You make short work of the mess with some thorough vacuuming +5That’s so much better.

{% endif %}

Regular cleaning will help reduce the presence of dust, allergens and other particulate matter that can impact your health. Clean floors with a damp mop or cloth, and vacuum regularly with a vacuum equipped with a high-efficiency particle air (HEPA) filter that traps small particles.

Bedroom

CO detectors

CO alarms can save your life!

{% if responses['Bedroom'].no_time_like_the_present == 'you_press_and_hold_test_button' %}

Testing your CO alarm is in good working order +2 is important, especially if you have a furnace. As with other fuel-burning appliances, furnaces can be a source of carbon monoxide which can’t be seen or smelled - only a CO alarm can alert you if levels are dangerously high.

{% elsif responses['Bedroom'].no_time_like_the_present == 'you_test_and_make_note_for_batteries_only' %}

A CO alarm can save your life! Make sure yours stays in good working order. That means testing it regularly, and making sure the batteries are good +5 you never know if there might be a power outage!

{% else %}

You want your home to be safe, so you keep it well maintained. That includes making sure you have a working CO alarm, and that your heating system is in good working order! You keep a stock of batteries and replacement filters +10 on hand for when you need them.

{% endif %}

Make sure you have at least one working CO alarm in your home, preferably close to your bedroom so you can hear it if it sounds during the night. Test it regularly to ensure that it's in good working order. Change the batteries annually or as recommended by the manufacturer.
Tip: Choose an alarm with a digital display. You will be able to monitor your exposure to CO, even if levels are too low to trigger an alarm. This can help you identify an issue early.
If you have a furnace – also remember to change your filters! Change or clear the filter every 3-4 months to keep your furnace working safely and efficiently.

Cat

Outdoor air quality

Check the outdoor air quality before letting it in your home!

{% if responses['Cat'].you_notice_that_the_sky_outside_is_hazy == 'you_close_the_curtains' %}

You closed the curtains +0 . But what if something is going on outside? The air quality outside will impact the air you are breathing inside.

{% elsif responses['Cat'].you_notice_that_the_sky_outside_is_hazy == 'open_window_is_that_smoke' %}

You are curious - the sky usually doesn't look like that! So it's natural to want to know why. Opening the window +2 a crack may allow you to see or smell if there is a wildfire or something going on, but most air quality issues aren’t so easily seen or smelled.

{% else %}

You check the Weather Network app +10 All good! Thankfully,the AQHI reading is low and there is nothing in the forecast to be concerned about.

{% endif %}

Allowing fresh air into the home is important, but not if the air quality is bad outside.
The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) provides local and real-time information, and recommends specific advice based on the health risks posed by air pollution levels in your area from forest fires and other sources.

Odours can linger

Odours can linger in closed rooms.

{% if responses['favourite time of the day'].you_put_on_your_favourite_slippers == 'curl_up_in_the_chair' %}

What a view! +0 . Lovely, but hasn’t done anything to make the bedroom feel less stuffy.

{% elsif responses['favourite time of the day'].you_put_on_your_favourite_slippers == 'turn_on_your_overhead_fan' %}

Overhead and stationary fans are a great way to help move air in and out of rooms. That will help keep the temperature more even across rooms, and keep the air feeling (and smelling) fresher +10

{% else %}

They may smell good, but you should avoid using scented candles, incense or air fresheners. -2 They don’t clean the air- they just mask the underlying odours, while releasing dangerous gases such as VOCs and particulate matter.

{% endif %}

Odours can linger in closed rooms. Get into the habit of leaving the inside doors open. Fans are also a great way to encourage air to circulate freely throughout your home.

favourite time of the day

Bedroom - where to

Kitchen - where next

Bathroom - where next

Living - where to

laundry

What a chore

What a chore…

{% if responses['laundry'].ugh_there_is_already_a_load_of_towels == 'actually_forget_it' %}

Laundry is definitely not your favourite activity - so you are going to put it off for another day. +0 . You are just going to have to wear that same blue sweater tomorrow. Again!

{% elsif responses['laundry'].ugh_there_is_already_a_load_of_towels == 'you_take_the_towels_out_and_get_started' %}

But you really need some clean clothes… so you empty out the machine by dumping the towels out onto the floor +0 . You’ll hang them up to dry later.

{% else %}

But you really need some clean clothes, so you move the towels into the dryer. Before you turn it on, you check the lint trap +10 . Good thing, it was full!

{% endif %}

Regularly cleaning out your lint trap will ensure your dryer is ventilating properly. If that hot air can’t escape, your dryer can overheat. And since lint is highly flammable, you run the risk of a fire

Radon kit

Radon info

Every home has radon - the only question is, how much?

{% if responses['Radon kit'].on_the_shelf_you_notice_radon_test_kit == 'no_time_like_the_present' %}

You pick up the test kit and read the instructions - setting up the detector is going to be a breeze! +10

{% elsif responses['Radon kit'].on_the_shelf_you_notice_radon_test_kit == 'you_set_a_reminder' %}

There is radon in every home, the only question is how much. You took an important first step in ordering a test kit, now you just have to set it up. So don’t forget! +5

{% else %}

You may not feel it, but there is radon in your home - the only question is, how much? Testing for it is the only way to know for sure -2

{% endif %}

Radon is a radioactive gas that can lead to lung cancer. In fact, it is the #1 cause of lung cancer in non-smokers.

The only way to know for sure whether your home has dangerous levels of radon is to test for it. You can test for it yourself- it’s simple and inexpensive. For more information or to order a test kit go to takeactiononradon.ca

Laundry - where to

The end

{% if score < 20 %}{% assign level = 0 %}{% assign leveltext = 'poor' %}{% assign levelclass = 'poor' %}{% assign badgeclass = 'warning' %}{% assign badgetext = 'Warning' %}{% assign groupClass = 'under50' %}{% assign descriptionText = 'Yikes. Good thing this is just a game! In real life, poor indoor air quality can cause significant health issues, so you need to take action to protect yourself and your loved ones.' %}{% elsif score > 19 and score < 60 %}{% assign level = 1 %}{% assign leveltext = 'could be improved' %}{% assign levelclass = 'better' %}{% assign badgeclass = 'small-actions' %}{% assign badgetext = 'Small Actions' %}{% assign groupClass = 'under50' %}{% assign descriptionText = 'Good try, but remember that even small, everyday actions can impact the quality of the air you breathe! Take care to improve ventilation and reduce the air pollutants in your home.' %}{% elsif score > 59 and score < 100 %}{% assign level = 2 %}{% assign leveltext = 'good' %}{% assign levelclass = 'best' %}{% assign badgeclass = 'regular-habits' %}{% assign badgetext = 'Regular Habits' %}{% if score < 66 %}{% assign groupClass = 'under50' %}{% else %}{% assign groupClass = 'over50' %}{% endif %}{% assign descriptionText = 'Well done! Throughout the story, you made some good choices to improve the air quality of your home.' %}{% elsif score > 99 %}{% assign level = 3 %}{% assign leveltext = 'excellent' %}{% assign levelclass = 'best' %}{% assign badgeclass = 'high-impact' %}{% assign badgetext = 'High Impact' %}{% assign groupClass = 'over50' %}{% assign descriptionText = 'Great work! Throughout the story, you made high impact choices, which improve air quality.' %}{% endif %}

Thanks for joining us in this story!

{{score}}out of 134

Your score {% if level != 1 %} is{% endif %} {{leveltext}}.

Remember these strategies:

recognize and change the activities that contribute to bad air quality in your home
eliminate sources of pollution in and around your home
improve ventilation.

Have questions?

Want to know more about indoor air quality and your health?

Connect with Environmental Health Protection staff at Health Canada, either by phone at 1-833-223-1014, or you can send an email to AIR@hc-sc.gc.ca.

Note that due to the volume of calls and emails most requests are responded to within one week.