Simple test to ensure your home's ventilation is effective
Ventilation in our homes plays a crucial role, although it is often underestimated. It is through these inconspicuous wall grates that regular air exchange occurs, protecting our interiors from excessive moisture. When our ventilation system starts to fail, it's worth checking its operation with a simple paper test.
Unfortunately, even systematic airing of the apartment will not be effective if the basic ventilation system is not functioning properly. The shortcomings in its operation are most noticeable in areas such as bathrooms and kitchens, where it is essential to remove odours and moisture. Excessive moisture can lead to the development of mould, which appears on the walls as brown or green spots. This is not only unsightly but also harmful to health.
How to check if the ventilation works?
The ventilation grate is often treated as a decoration rather than a functional element, leading to overlooking its actual role. It is necessary to regularly clean the ventilation grates, as accumulated dust significantly limits airflow. It is worth wiping the grate occasionally and even dismantling it to thoroughly clean any accumulated dirt, preventing moisture problems.
To ensure that the ventilation is working properly, it's best to perform a test using a piece of paper. Simply hold the paper against the ventilation grate—properly functioning ventilation should suck the paper. If the paper falls to the floor, it may indicate that the ventilation requires attention.
Non-functioning ventilation - what to do?
Instead of panicking, it's better to take action and clean all the grates of accumulated dirt, which often blocks airflow. The grate can easily be removed from the wall yourself, but you need to know how to effectively remove the dirt that hinders its operation.
To start, simply wipe the grate "dry" to remove excess dust. Then, soak it in water to remove both dirt and potential mould. You can use dish soap and vinegar for cleaning, which will effectively clean the grate. After this treatment, it's a good idea to conduct the paper test again, and if the airflow problem persists, call a specialist.
