A recent study has concluded that poor indoor air isn’t just bad for your health. It is also costing the UK economy billions as a result of poor energy efficiency.

A recent report published by the London School of Economics (LSE). Found that tackling indoor air pollution could save the UK up to £40 billion a year. That’s more than the UK government is currently spending on schools.

Most people spend around 90% of their time indoors. If you have poor air flow or poor ventilation in your property this can cause stale air. This has a wide range of problems including condensation and mould growth. This bad quality air can put pressure on your body and as a knock on effect put pressure on the NHS.

What Did The LSE Research Say?

The LSE’s Grantham Institute looked at the impact of poor air quality inside homes, offices, and public buildings. Their findings were clear. Indoor air pollution can lead to an increase in the number of GP visits. A higher rate of report of problems relating to asthma and respiratory illness. 

The knock on effect of this can be a loss of productivity at work. More people calling in sick or caring for children who are sick and unable to attend school. But of most concern is the strain on the NHS with long-term health costs linked to heart and lung disease. 

The researchers said that simple solutions, like air quality monitors and positive input ventilation systems, could make a huge difference. These mechanical ventilation methods will improve air quality more efficiently than trickle vents. 

Why Indoor Air Is Worse Than You Think

When we talk about pollution, we often picture traffic fumes or factories. But the air in your living room might be worse.

Everyday things like:

• Cooking without an extractor fan
• Overuse of Cleaning sprays
• Scented candles and wax melts
• Drying clothes indoors
• Poor insulation or blocked vents

These conditions can trap indoor air pollutants in your home. Without good ventilation, they build up fast. You might not see them, but your lungs will feel them.

The Role Of PIV In Better Air Quality

This is where an energy efficient Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) system comes in.

A PIV unit quietly pulls in fresh, filtered air from your loft or outside. It pushes out damp, stale, polluted air. It then provides a gentle, continuous flow of fresh air into your property. By reducing moisture and pollutants in the air, PIV helps to stop condensation and black mould growth. 

This can help to lower the number of asthma flare ups by creating a healthier indoor environment for the occupants. This healthier environment can help improve living conditions and even promote better sleeping conditions. PIV units run constantly in the background, it works even when you forget to open a window.

Small Changes Can Lead To Big Results In The UK

LSE’s research shows just how important indoor air really is. If we tackled it properly, the UK could see healthier living conditions in UK homes and workplaces. 

This would mean fewer GP and NHS visits. Resulting in better school and work attendances. Meaning an Improvement in the work productivity.

Clean air through proper ventilation is a cost effective way to improve the standard of living and productivity in the UK.