It is still winter. That means lots of cuddly times with books, tea, knitting and podcasts for me. Well, trying to knit at least. But all that indoor activity and trying to ward off the cold means the air inside can get quite stale.
I’ve recently noticed, how many people tip their windows for fresh air, while having the heater on full throttle, all day long!
That is not ok!
It is time for some problem solving with German efficiency here. It took years of intricate planning and calculating by our best engineers and it was a proudly kept secret of our people for many years, but I believe the time has come for the world to watch and learn. Are you ready?
Stoßlüften.
Yes it even has the ß in it! It is pronounced like an extra sharp “S” (which is also what it is called in German: “Scharf-S”). Please stop assuming its a weird “B”. Yes I’m looking at you, Amercian tourists.
Ok, super off-track. What is Stoßlüften?
Well, instead of tipping your window all day while heating the outside of your dwelling, you open all of the windows WIDE! For about 5 minutes, while turning off the heat at the same time. Open the doors inside the house, so the draft can go through the house and flush all the stank out.
After five minutes close all the windows, put your heater back to a moderate temperature, and enjoy the oxygen rush to your brain boosting your energy and concentration.
Its much nicer than a constant of not-really-fresh air through the tipped window. Coincidentally I just read today, from a random source I cannot back up, that this method is also better for your health, as it is more effective in flushing out all the “indoor pollution” (that’s a thing apparently) such as mold spores, dust and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Plus, and this I know for sure, outside is already way too warm for this time of year. And you’ll save so much energy, which translates directly into saved money.
Whatever your driving force, lets give Stoßlüften some globalization please!
And that’s my challenge for you this month: Practice Stoßlüften, stop tipping your windows with the heater on.
PS: Stoßlüften-time is the best time to play Italian opera music on full volume.