Today’s homes are built using a variety of green building techniques. These methods create tighter, more efficient homes that can save homeowners money on energy bills. Tight building envelopes also keep air impurities inside the home including any chemicals used in cleaning products, paint, building materials and more. This combination makes a strong case for a proper home ventilation system to maintain your home’s air quality and energy efficiency.Many factors influence the appropriate type of ventilation for a home including local code requirements, building size and types of appliances. Here are three of the most common ventilation systems:
- Exhaust Only – Exhaust-only systems use an exhaust fan, typically placed in a kitchen or bathroom, to remove stale inside air and moisture. They often run on a timer so they can work throughout the day. This type of system relies on the home’s natural air leaks to allow outside air to enter. Exhaust-only systems do not properly manage the influx of outside air.
- Supply Only – A supply-only system includes a fan that brings fresh air into the home and uses the home’s natural air leaks to allow inside air to escape. A filter can be added to the intake to trap pollen and other air pollutants before they enter the home. A dehumidifier can be added inside the home to control humidity levels. Supply-only systems bring in outside air but do not effectively manage removal of inside air.
- Balanced – A balanced system includes both exhaust and supply, controlling ventilation at both ends. This system includes separate fans to manage air supply and air exhaust. Overall, this is a better ventilation system because it provides qualities of both exhaust-only and supply-only systems. However, it may be more costly to run.
Does your home have a ventilation system? Do you have questions about your home’s air sealing and ventilation? Contact us with any questions.
