I’ve been asked this question a few times. “At what point do I need to add mechanical ventilation to my home?” The answer, it depends. Continue reading “Energy Audit-Ventilation Recommendations”
Building Science-Air Changes
My last posting I talked about air changes at 50 Pascals (ACH50) and air changes natural (ACHnat). This week I’m going to discuss how much fresh air a home needs in a northern climate and a couple of the codes Minnesota has in force that work well. One of these codes, the requirement for balanced ventilation, helps add durability to our structures. Continue reading “Building Science-Air Changes”
Construction Design-Humidity Control in a Garage
I watched an electrician install two ceiling fans in an attached garage recently while I was working as a subcontractor on a new home being built. I quizzed him on their use and he said moisture control. This got me thinking about controlling humidity in a heated garage in a northern climate, this week’s topic. Continue reading “Construction Design-Humidity Control in a Garage”
Mechanicals-Bathroom Ventilation
Bath fans serve a few different functions. Removing moisture, removing odors, and if noisy enough, to drown out sounds. Continue reading “Mechanicals-Bathroom Ventilation”
The Energy Audit-My Moisture on Window Question
One of the questions I always ask while conducting an energy audit or assessment is if there is a build-up of frost or water vapor on any of the windows during the heating season. Usually, the answer is no. But I do occasionally get a yes, what is this piece of information telling me? Continue reading “The Energy Audit-My Moisture on Window Question”
Mechanicals-Heat Recovery Ventilators
I’ve had several discussions on this blog about the importance of a tight home, “built it tight and ventilate it right”. Continue reading “Mechanicals-Heat Recovery Ventilators”