KEEP YOUR BUILDING BREATHING. DON’T LET WINTER TRAP BAD AIR, STEAM & ODOURS INDOORS

As winter has set in across Southeast Queensland, residents and guests of apartment buildings often close external doors and windows to retain warmth.

As temperatures drop to the below 10C’s from late May to early August, occupants in units and high-rise apartment buildings have no other option but to close doors and windows to retain internal heat. While this keeps the cold out, it traps moisture and pollutants inside, making effective exhaust ventilation systems in toilet, bathroom, ensuite and laundry areas more critical than ever.

In colder months, the natural inclination is to close windows and doors to conserve heat. However, this reduces natural airflow, leading to increased humidity, air moisture and the accumulation of indoor pollutants. Personal spaces are particularly vulnerable, as activities like showering and drying clothes release significant heat and moisture into the air. Toilet odours and particulate matter also remain trapped and are unable to exhaust if a system is poorly maintained and operating ineffectively.

Why Exhaust Ventilation Matters

Exhaust ventilation systems are designed to expel stale, humid air from toilets and wet areas, maintain indoor air quality and prevent issues like mould growth and unpleasant odours. Without proper ventilation, moisture can condense on surfaces, fostering mould and mildew, which are known to exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis.

Health Implications

Poor indoor air quality doesn’t just cause discomfort; it poses potential health risks. According to the Australian Department of Health, inadequate ventilation can lead to a buildup of pollutants, increasing the risk of respiratory infections and chronic lung diseases. Furthermore, studies have shown that indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air, especially in tightly sealed environments during winter.

The Importance of Maintenance

For exhaust ventilation systems to function effectively, maintenance is essential. Over time, dust, lint, and other debris can accumulate in ducts and vents, reducing airflow and system efficiency. Ensuring that ductwork, vents, control dampers and exhaust fans are clean and operational helps maintain optimal airflow, crucial for removing excess moisture and pollutants.

What Residents Can Do

If you notice excessive steam, odours, visible lint build-up on ventilation fittings or mould formation in your apartment’s wet areas, contact your building manager or body corporate to request a quotation for cleaning the system. SafeAir can provide a free quotation for cleaning the system throughout the building as well as upgrading components to ensure these integral systems are maintained properly and benefit everyone in the building.

Here’s How Building Managers and Committees Can Stay Ahead:

• Complete a Deep-Clean: Engage a qualified professional to provide a quotation for cleaning the system. Note the condition of vents and control dampers to ascertain if they are operable, and not broken or damaged. Completing the deep-clean and restoring function to the system will remove years of build-up.
• Implement a Preventative Maintenance Program: Plan for a re-clean at a prescribed interval and budget for any replacement fittings that may be required during a future service. Enabling a deep-clean prior to warmer or cooler months is most effective in tackling indoor seasonal changes.
• Address broken fittings such as control dampers, vents or diffusers.
• Communicate With Residents: Use building noticeboards, newsletters, or group emails to educate residents about the role of exhaust ventilation systems and encourage reporting of any concerns like visible build-up, odour retention, or poor airflow.
• Comply With Ventilation Standards: Ensure your building meets Australian Standard AS1668.2 for mechanical ventilation in buildings, particularly in wet areas and spaces without windows.

Maintaining effective exhaust ventilation in apartment buildings during winter is not just about comfort — it’s a health imperative. By ensuring these systems are operational and well-maintained, residents and guests can enjoy a warm, comfortable, and healthy indoor environment throughout Queensland’s colder months.

Article Contributed by the SafeAir Projects Team.