“Why Lowering Your Shutters in the Summer Can Be a Mistake”
During the summer, especially when temperatures soar, many people try to cool their homes by lowering their shutters and preventing the sun from heating up the rooms. However, it might be worth reconsidering this practice.
A study conducted at the University of Oregon revealed that leaving shutters raised is actually healthier because sunlight kills bacteria living on dust particles, thereby reducing the risk of respiratory infections.
The research, published in the journal “Microbiome,” exposed bacteria found in household dust to three different conditions under controlled settings – a dark room, a room with natural light, and a room with ultraviolet (UV) light.
After 90 days, samples were collected and analyzed, uncovering a link between light exposure and the number of bacteria in the dust. Bacteria multiplied up to 12 percent faster in dark rooms.
The room illuminated by a UV lamp had the fewest bacteria (6.1 percent), and slightly more bacteria were found in the room with natural light (6.8 percent). Additionally, bacteria found in dark rooms were associated with respiratory problems.
However, if the heat becomes too intense, it’s a good idea to at least partially lower the curtains to prevent overheating in the apartment – especially if you don’t have air conditioning and your rooms face south.
But remember to ventilate your home at least in the morning and evening when it’s not too hot.
