How to Use Ventilation to Protect Health

Use exhaust fans in bathrooms to remove moisture and gases from the house.

Fit your kitchen with an exhaust fan that moves the air to the outside. Use the fan or open a window when cooking to remove fumes and airborne particles.

Make sure gas, propane, wood or other combustion appliances vent completely to the outside. Do not use ventless stoves. Install a carbon monoxide detector in multiple locations in your house.

Vent clothes dryers to the outdoors, too. Clean out the vent regularly to make sure the dust does not block air flow.

If you paint or use hobby supplies or chemicals in your home, add extra ventilation. Open the windows and use a portable window fan to pull the air out of the room.

Test your home for radon, and if you have elevated levels, hire a professional to add ventilation to remove it.  Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. 

If the air indoors remains too moist, look for sources of moisture that need to be controlled. If that still does not solve the problem, if a dehumidifier may help.  If you use a dehumidifier, make certain you clean it regularly.  Check with an air systems specialist to see if your system needs improvements.

Never idle your car in an attached garage. The exhaust can move into your home.