How Indoor Cooking Shapes the Air You Breathe

Cooking on a stove will always release particles and gases into your home. It doesn’t matter whether it is gas or electric. Gas stoves produce nitrogen dioxide, which can irritate your lungs if there is too much of it in your home. Even electric stoves can release particles into the air.

However, this depends on what you cook. If anyone in your home suffers from a respiratory condition, such as asthma or allergies, this can be extremely problematic if you are not careful, as they will have difficulty breathing. The good news is that there are some cooking habits you can implement to improve your indoor air quality and make things better for your household.

The Role of Ventilation in Keeping Air Clean

Poor ventilation can lead to poor air quality while cooking. Many homeowners open their windows or run their exhaust fans to try to rectify this problem. However, not all of these systems work effectively, as some are inferior to others, and some homes have features that may inhibit good airflow. If you notice issues even after running the exhaust fan or opening your windows, it’s a good idea to consult a professional HVAC technician for additional advice on improving air quality.

A range hood is essential for capturing and redirecting smoke, grease, odors, and airborne particles generated while cooking. It either vents these contaminants outside or filters and recirculates clean air, which helps to prevent surface buildup and boost ventilation. A well-functioning range hood improves kitchen air quality, keeps your home smelling fresh, and promotes a healthier living space for your family.

Temperature Matters

The number of particles present in the air depends on the different cooking methods you choose to implement. Frying food at the highest setting can create smoke that carries tiny particles, which can significantly irritate your airways. Baking and roasting tend not to produce as much pollution, but they can still release fumes. However, this will depend on the oils and ingredients you decide to use. To prevent some of these issues, use oils with a higher smoke point and avoid extremely high heat.

Long-Term Effects on Health

You may not notice anything for several years. However, inhaling gases and particles for prolonged periods can lead to serious health issues later. This is especially problematic for children, those with compromised immune systems, and older adults. Furthermore, long-term exposure to nitrogen dioxide can diminish lung function, even in healthy individuals.

In addition to practicing good cooking habits, consider calling a professional for an air quality assessment. During this evaluation, a professional will test the air in your home to identify the pollutants present and provide recommendations for various solutions. For air quality assessments in Panama City, FL, reach out to Ridge AC and let our team help you breathe easier.