[Home Tips] How to improve the poor indoor air circulation?
🏠 Why is indoor air not circulating? (Common in Hong Kong)
Hong Kong's buildings are densely packed with small units. To save on air conditioning electricity or block out noise, many people keep their windows closed for extended periods, which results in stale indoor air. Here are a few common reasons:
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Limited window design <br>Many new homes use "small windows" or "insufficient convection windows", resulting in poor natural ventilation.
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Turning on the air conditioner for a long time <br>When the air conditioner is turned on in summer, the doors and windows are closed, the air cannot be refreshed, and the carbon dioxide concentration rises sharply🫁.
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Furniture layout blocks airflow <br>Large furniture (wardrobes, bookcases) placed near windows or vents blocks air flow.
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Insufficient ventilation in toilets and kitchens <br>The exhaust fans are aging or lack power, which prevents odors and moisture from being effectively removed.
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Influence of external environment <br>Some areas in Hong Kong are close to roads or construction sites. Opening windows will result in dust, noise or pollutants, making residents prefer to close the windows.
💡 How to improve (Editor's Picks + Practical Tips)
1. Use the principle of "convection ventilation"
- Method : Open two opposite or diagonal windows at the same time and use the wind pressure difference to allow air to flow naturally.
- Editor's tip : If you only have one window, you can open the main door or corridor window to create a flow path. However, be mindful of safety issues.
2. Make good use of exhaust fans and ventilation systems
- Kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans should be cleaned regularly to ensure smooth exhaust.
- If the unit is unable to install a large exhaust system, you can consider using window exhaust fans to remove the dirty air from the room.
- Editor’s tip : It’s best to place the exhaust fan next to the window on the other side to create an “in, out” air flow.
3. Install an Air Circulator
- Unlike ordinary fans, circulating fans can disperse the indoor air and reduce "dead corners".
- Angle the circulation fan toward the window to help push the hot air out of the room.
- Editor’s tip : Hong Kong is humid in the summer, so using a circulating fan in conjunction with a dehumidifier is more effective in preventing musty odors 😌.
4. Open windows for short periods of time
- Even if you are afraid of heat or dust, you should open the windows for fresh air at least 2-3 times a day for 5-10 minutes each time.
- Editor’s tip : Open windows in the morning or evening when there are fewer cars to reduce the inhalation of pollutants.
5. Use an air purifier
- Suitable for situations where windows cannot be opened for long periods of time, such as near roads or construction sites.
- Choose a model with both a HEPA filter and an activated carbon filter to filter out both particles and odors.
- Editor’s tip : Don’t be superstitious about “negative ion machines”; the key is to have a high CADR (clean air delivery ratio) value📈.
6. Improve furniture placement
- Avoid large furniture blocking windows or vents.
- Editor’s tip : Use open shelves instead of sealed cabinets to allow for better air flow.
7. Consider installing a fresh air system
- Although the cost is higher, it can bring in fresh outdoor air and filter out pollutants with the windows closed.
- Suitable for families with high requirements for air quality, or those with elderly, infants, or people with sensitive respiratory systems.
🚨 Why is it necessary to improve air circulation?
If you stay in a poorly ventilated environment for a long time, you may experience:
- Headache, fatigue, decreased concentration
- High carbon dioxide levels can harm your health
- Bacteria and viruses can easily spread in confined spaces
- Indoor moisture accumulates, causing mold on the walls🦠
📌 Editor's Summary
While living space in Hong Kong is limited, it's still possible to maintain fresh indoor air even in the hot and humid summers by utilizing cross ventilation, exhaust systems, circulating fans, and air purifiers . We recommend regularly opening windows , using air handling systems , and paying attention to furniture placement to create a healthy and comfortable home environment.
