What can be done to improve air quality during periods of high heat?

June 5th, 2022

Air pollution threatens health, it is a fact. But why are heat wave and pollution alerts often at the same time? Is there really a link between hot weather and reduced air quality? What can be done to improve the situation during periods of great heat? The following blog post will attempt to answer your questions on the subject.

Why does air quality decrease in hot weather?

When the weather is nice and warm, several sources of pollutants intensify. Sun and heat can transform some pollutants, making them even more toxic than usual. Heat waves are often accompanied by high atmospheric pressures, creating a layer of air that stagnates above the ground. When this happens over cities, polluting particles get trapped and the pollution increases in intensity.

There are essentially three main reasons for this phenomenon. The first being that, as we have just said, heat increases the emission of pollutants into the atmosphere. During these periods of heat, the use of air conditioning in buildings and cars intensifies, which increases energy consumption and becomes an additional source of pollution. The second reason is that the sun and heat transform air pollution. Indeed, solar radiation combined with high temperatures causes chemical reactions between primary pollutants such as nitrogen oxide (produced by engines) and oxygen, producing ozone. The hotter the day, the more sustained the radiation, the more ozone there will be. Ozone can exacerbate respiratory problems and is a major cause of air pollution. Eventually, the high atmospheric pressure keeps the polluted air on the ground, thus increasing the level of ambient pollution. Heat waves, combined with poor air quality, are often united, as continuous high pressures are responsible for stagnant air. In the absence of wind and precipitation, the pollutants are not disseminated and remain at ground level.

How can we improve the air quality in our homes?

Ventilation is a good solution to improve air quality by reducing the amount of pollutants inside. It also helps to limit the increase in humidity inside, which can contribute to the formation of mold. Ventilation also removes stale indoor air and increases the amount of outdoor air that enters. To improve ventilation in your home, be sure to have your air ducts professionally cleaned, leave interior doors open, use bathroom and kitchen fans, and ensure that baseboards or heater are not blocked by furniture. Open windows and doors when outside conditions permit, i.e. avoiding periods of high heat waves and pollution warning days. When outdoor air pollution levels are high, reduce the amount of outdoor air entering the house by closing windows and turning on the air conditioner. You may also consider using a mechanical heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system in your home with an induct filtration system and remember to replace or clean the filter according to the instructions from the manufacturer.

This way, you should have a pleasant summer without worrying too much about your indoor air quality. Do not hesitate to call a professional if you have any questions, your health and that of your family are at stake.