Reviewed and Revised on 10/30/2013
Reviewed and Revised on 10/15/2013
Reasons for Home Ventilation
In days past, energy was cheap and energy efficiency was not a concern. As energy prices increased, homeowners sought to reduce costs by insulating attics, walls, and basements, which reduced large-scale heat transfer and energy loss. Recently, due to high energy costs, better materials, and better information, homeowners and builders are reducing the air leaks to reduce energy loss and and costs. In some homes, the home natural air exchange…
Reviewed and Revised on 11/12/2013
Air tries to equalize between higher and lower air pressure areas. If there is a pathway (a gap) and a pressure difference, it will move through that pathway whether we want it or not.
To be an effective air barrier or air flow retarder, a material must not only block airflow through it, it must also be installed in a way that eliminates even small gaps, be continuous all around the conditional space and …
Reviewed and Revised on 10/30/2013
The benefits of installing a heat exchanger in a home include improved moisture removal, decrease in the potential of structural damage, elimination of harmful pollutants, and reduced energy costs. The resulting improved indoor air quality can affect the home occupants and their health in a positive manner. Installation also increases the resale value of the home.
A simple payback calculation, where the energy savings pay for the purchase and installation of a heat exchanger …
One way to minimize air quality and moisture problems in a home, without opening a window, is by the installation of a mechanical ventilation system such as an air-to-air heat exchanger. An air-to-air heat exchanger brings two air streams of different temperatures into thermal contact, transferring heat from the exhausting inside air to incoming outside air during the heating season.
In summer, the heat exchanger can cool and in some cases, dehumidify the hot outside air passing through it and …
Reviewed and Revised on 10/30/2013
Why is Home Ventilation a Concern
Air-to-Air Exchanger Operation and Construction
Installation of Air-to-Air Heat Exchanger
Cost Effectiveness of Heat Exchangers
Air-to-Air Heat Exchanger Maintenance
To reduce heating and cooling costs, builders have used better construction techniques and materials to greatly reduce air leaks into and out of a home. While a “tight” home will reduce the costs of heating and cooling, it will also trap water vapor …
Reviewed and Revised on 10/15/2013
Hygrometer
Indoor air humidity is generally measured in terms of relative humidity by an instrument called hygrometer, or relative humidity meter. Relative humidity measures the percent amount of water vapor present in the air to the total amount of water vapor it could actually hold at the given temperature. The hygrometers can have either a dial or a digital readout. Digital hygrometers are not always more accurate. …
