Is it advisable to sleep with open windows during winter? Understanding the advantages for both you and your bedroom.
In the cold winter months, the decision to open or close the windows can have a significant impact on indoor comfort, energy costs, and health. Francis Kaspar, a seasoned HVAC technician, offers insights into this balancing act.
For individuals with respiratory issues like asthma, it's advisable to keep the window shut. The cold, dry air can worsen symptoms, leading to discomfort. However, opening windows during winter may allow fresh air in, potentially reducing indoor pollution and carbon dioxide levels, according to Kaspar.
Kaspar warns that an open bedroom window may increase heating costs as the heating system will have to work harder to maintain room comfort. This is particularly true if temperatures are below freezing, as keeping the window open can make the room too cold, potentially causing issues like frozen pipes or damage to items in the room.
On the other hand, Kaspar points out that cool temperatures promote sound sleep and can help reduce the number of times a person wakes up during the night. He also suggests that outside ambient noises can serve as a white noise background, potentially drowning out inside sounds that could disrupt sleep.
However, winter air can worsen for sensitive individuals, potentially causing cracked skin, inflamed sinuses, or respiratory problems when windows are open. Winter evenings may still have traffic, animal noise, and city sounds that can cause unforeseen disruptions in sleep for light sleepers.
Kaspar recommends opening bedroom windows in winter to enhance indoor air quality and sleep quality. He suggests keeping a bedroom window slightly open to help remove extra humidity indoors, which can prevent the growth of mold, mildew, and dust mites.
When it comes to air purifiers, there are several options available. The Windmill Smart 3-in-1 True HEPA Air Purifier from Wayfair comes in a natural wood finish, while the WINIX A230 Bedroom Air Purifier from Walmart is a classic, portable air purifier priced at $78. For those dealing with high winter dampness, the Costway Portable Home Dehumidifier from Amazon is available in pink, yellow, and blue hues.
In areas with poor winter air quality due to smog or pollution, keeping windows closed can help avoid bringing in harmful particles. It is especially recommended not to open the bedroom windows in winter months during rainy or damp weather at night, as moist air can enter and increase humidity indoors. Instead, ventilate briefly and widely for 5 to 10 minutes in the morning and evening when it is dry and not raining.
In conclusion, the decision to open or close windows during winter requires careful consideration. While fresh air can have benefits, it's essential to balance these with the potential risks to comfort, energy costs, and health.
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