As I write this post at the end of November, our outdoor temperature is 28°F with an outdoor humidity of 75%. Inside my home, the temperature is 70°F with a humidity level of 21%. Slightly uncomfortable humidity levels for my family. During last year’s polar vortex, when the temperatures reached nearly -40°F, my indoor humidity dropped to 9%, much too dry. Knowing what I know about building science, I will not operate a humidifier. This post will explain why. Continue reading “Building Science-Wintertime Interior Humidity”
Construction Design-HRV or ERV
Balanced mechanical ventilation is code required in all new construction in my home state of Minnesota. Indoor air quality has become a big topic with today’s pandemic. My market uses HRV’s or heat recovery ventilators almost exclusively. They work great at supplying the home with filtered fresh air and at controlling indoor humidity levels. You can read more about HRV’s here. Continue reading “Construction Design-HRV or ERV”
Mechanicals-Adding Mechanical Ventilation to an Old Home
Something I suggest before any renovation to an older home that includes improvements or changes to the water, air, vapor, or thermal control layer is to have a blower door test conducted. Continue reading “Mechanicals-Adding Mechanical Ventilation to an Old Home”