Summer can sometimes become so warm that you may need to open your windows to allow in fresh air and stop overworking your air conditioning system. But is this really a good idea?
Important Considerations
Keeping your windows open for at least 15 minutes a day can help improve indoor air quality by flushing out stale indoor air. The concentration of indoor air pollutants – which includes mold spores and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from common household materials like paint and plastics – will be kept to a minimum.
Keeping the windows open during summer sounds sensible, given that, at the right direction, a cool breeze can provide cooling as much as air conditioning systems can. There are, however, some factors you have to consider if you’re thinking of keeping your windows open for cooling and ventilation:
Home insulation – Your home’s exterior, which includes the roof and siding, contribute to your home’s insulation. If it feels uncomfortable even when your air conditioner seems to be working properly, then your home may be lacking in insulation. A steady breeze would only circulate radiant heat throughout your home. Investing in energy-efficient replacement windows can also help improve home insulation.
Air conditioning system – Your air conditioner has to be properly sized for your home. A unit that’s too small would be redlining all the time just to meet your home’s cooling needs. A unit that’s too large would be stopping and starting intermittently, which would result in insufficient cooling and early failure. A well-maintained air conditioner can help make sure that your home is properly cooled.
Should You Keep Your Windows Open or Closed?
Considering the factors described above, keeping your windows closed is better if your home is properly insulated and cooled by an efficient air conditioner. Also, lack of a continuous breeze wouldn’t be as effective in cooling your home: you’ll still need to run an electric fan or blower to create airflow. Having said that, you shouldn’t overlook the benefits of opening your windows every once in a while. In addition to maintaining indoor air quality, allowing fresh air into your home can help eliminate odors and excess humidity.
Twin Cities Siding and Roofing is your leading provider of siding and window installation services. Give us a call at (651) 967-0873. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in St. Paul and Minneapolis.