Modern homes are constructed with efficiency and safety in mind. Ultra-effective building methods and high-tech, top-notch building materials create structures that are far more airtight than ever before. While this is great for energy efficiency, it is terrible for air quality.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), we spend about 90 percent of our lives indoors. Air pollution is a major problem, especially in airtight homes. In some studies, indoor air is up to 100 times more polluted than the air outdoors. However, most homes are three to five times more polluted than the air outside. Skilled HVAC experts can help.
Too Much of a Good Thing Can Be Bad
It is true that the preventing the loss of heat is the best way to keep homes warm and save money. However, too little ventilation can lead to health and comfort problems, including an increase in asthma-related illnesses, upper respiratory infections, and discomfort due to dry air.
What You Can Do
The most effective way to improve the air quality indoors is to install an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV). Essentially, this device recycles the energy in our stale air by transferring it to fresh, clean air pulled in from the outside. Clean air is drawn into the machine where it is mixed and reacclimatized to the indoor air temperature.
ERV systems pre-heat and humidify the air in the winter and pre-cool and dehumidify it in the summer. An ERV uses very little energy. It helps keep heating and cooling bills at a reasonable level while saving energy and improving the air quality. Old, dirty air is released into the outdoors and the fresh, clean air is blown inside.
An ERV is an affordable option for those of us who want to refresh our indoor air while keeping our homes energy efficient. Schedule a free evaluation and quote with one of our skilled tradesmen today.
