Opening windows and doors can be used to increase airflow in a space. Before doing so, it is important to consider that:
- Opening a window or propping a door open may not necessarily improve air circulation (e.g., it depends on outdoor air currents and whether a cross-draft can be achieved by opening windows or doors on opposite sides of the room).
- Opening a window or door may interfere with the ventilation provided via the HVAC system by changing the pressurization or air balance of the room. It could also cause other spaces served by that system to be overcooled or overheated if unconditioned outdoor air affects a thermostat.
- Opening windows and doors presents other security and cleanliness issues (e.g., dust, particulates).
For fire prevention and life safety reasons, do not prop open:
- Entry doors
- Security access doors
- Fire doors | read SafetyNet on fire door regulations(link is external)(link is external)
- Laboratory doors
Before propping open doors, please consult Fire Prevention Services at ehs@berkeley.edu(link sends e-mail)(link sends e-mail) or (510) 642-3073.