Breathing Easy at Home: Understanding CO2 Levels and Minimising Them
In our quest for comfortable living, we often overlook the air we breathe within our homes. One crucial aspect of indoor air quality is the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2). Let’s explore the significance of CO2 levels in the home and discover effective ways to minimise them for a healthier living space.
Understanding CO2 Levels at Home
Carbon dioxide is a natural component of the air we breathe. However, in confined spaces, CO2 levels can rise, impacting indoor air quality and our well-being. The ideal indoor CO2 concentration is below 600 parts per million (ppm). Though the general expected levels can be between 400-1000ppm. Beyond this level, occupants may experience symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and fatigue.
General indoor environments: In most indoor settings, a CO2 concentration of 400-1000 ppm is considered acceptable. This range is commonly used as a guideline for maintaining good indoor air quality in homes, offices, and public spaces.
Offices and classrooms: In office spaces and classrooms, a common guideline is to maintain CO2 levels below 1000 ppm. This is because higher CO2 levels have been found to lead to decreased cognitive performance and reduced productivity.
Common Sources of Elevated CO2
- Poor Ventilation: Inadequate airflow can lead to the accumulation of CO2, especially in spaces with limited ventilation.
- Combustion Appliances: Gas stoves, heaters, and fireplaces can contribute to increased CO2 levels.
- Occupancy and Activities: The number of people in a space and certain activities (cooking, exercising) can generate additional CO2.
Higher levels of CO2 will start to take effect on the body quite quickly. Once the readings start to head over 1000ppm some people will start to report the feeling a little dizzy. It is at this point that you might notice the change in air quality.
At levels between 2000-5000ppm there will be signs of Headaches, fatigue, stagnant, stuffiness, poor concentration, loss of focus, increased heart rate and nausea. The initial feeling as the figure begins to reach 2000ppm is the start of a headache. The 2500ppm is achievable in occupied rooms with poor ventilation.
When the CO2 concentration reach between 50,000-100,000ppm there is an immediate risk to life. The body will begin to react severely due to the levels of toxicity in the blood stream. This is enough to cause death. This is though these levels are only made up 5-10% of the air content. These higher figures are only achievable through failure in a piece of equipment or in an enclosed environment with no fresh air supply.
Effective Strategies to Minimise CO2 Levels in the Home and Office:
- Enhance Ventilation:
Invest in Ventilation Systems: Mechanical ventilation systems, such as exhaust fans and air purifiers, can help maintain fresh air circulation.
Open Windows: Regularly open windows to allow for natural ventilation and the exchange of indoor and outdoor air.
- Indoor Plants:
Natural Air Purifiers: Incorporate indoor plants known for their air-purifying qualities, such as snake plants and peace lilies. They absorb CO2 and release oxygen. Though, according to NASA, you would need a lot of them to make a real improvement – The equivalent of a leaf the size of a single car garage in optimal conditions.
- Regular Air Quality Monitoring:
Use CO2 Monitors: Install CO2 monitors to keep track of indoor levels. This empowers you to take timely actions when needed.
- Mindful Habits:
Cooking Practices: Use exhaust fans while cooking to remove airborne pollutants and excess CO2.
Proper Ventilation During Activities: Ensure adequate ventilation during activities that may increase CO2 levels, such as exercising.
- Consideration of Building Materials:
Opt for Low-Emission Materials: Choose building materials and furnishings with low emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to maintain better indoor air quality.
Prioritising Your Well-being
With considerable changes to our homes over the last few decades we have seen our house become more and more airtight. The unfortunate by-product of this is a poor ventilation. A home with optimal CO2 levels is a home where you can breathe easy and thrive. By incorporating these strategies into your living space, you not only enhance indoor air quality but also contribute to a healthier and more comfortable environment for you and your loved ones.
Remember, your well-being starts with the air you breathe. Let’s create homes where every breath is refreshing and invigorating. When you are aware of the symptoms you become aware of the problems.
To find out more about air quality and our services contact VENTI and speak to one of our team. We will support you to find the air handling solutions to suit your needs. We will provide the advice to ensure that you can breathe easily in your home.