So BBC Scotland reports the findings of an interesting academic study into domestic air pollution:
Specialists at the school's Mackintosh Environmental Research Unit (MEARU) said modern homes were being built to be airtight.
This causes a build-up of harmful chemicals and moisture if householders do not open windows or vents.
The unit has made a series of recommendations to reduce pollutants.
Prof Tim Sharpe, head of the MEARU, said: "Poor indoor air quality, particularly in bedrooms, is hard for people to detect.
"There are clear links between poor ventilation and ill-health so people need to be aware of the build up of CO2 and other pollutants in their homes and their potential impact on health."
The MEARU conducted a survey of 200 homes which were constructed to modern, airtight standards. It found that most householders kept trickle vents closed, and bedroom windows closed at night.
But a cursory glance at the Energy Saving Trust website suggests one man's 'ventilation' is another man's 'draught':
Unless your home is very new, you will lose some heat through draughts around doors and windows, gaps around the floor, or through the chimney.
Professional draught-proofing of windows, doors and blocking cracks in floors and skirting boards can cost around £200, but can save up to £25 to £35 a year on energy bills. DIY draft proofing can be much cheaper. Installing a chimney draft excluder could save between £20 and £25 a year as well.
With the north winds blowing blizzards well into the back end of April this seemed quite topical.
Debate Magazine
