Indoor Air Quality

Absolutely, modern "tight" building construction, aimed at energy efficiency, can inadvertently lead to the trapping of indoor pollutants, making indoor air quality a significant concern. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the air inside homes and buildings can often be more polluted than the outdoor air. Given that people spend about 90% of their time indoors, the health risks associated with indoor pollutants can be greater than those from outdoor sources.

Poor indoor air quality can lead to various health issues, such as dizziness, headaches, and exacerbation of allergies and asthma symptoms. To address this problem and ensure a healthier indoor environment, several measures can be taken:

• Air Purifiers and Filters: Air purifiers equipped with high-quality filters can effectively remove airborne particles, allergens, and pollutants, enhancing indoor air quality. These devices can be particularly helpful for individuals with respiratory conditions or allergies.
• Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) and Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs): HRVs and ERVs are ventilation systems designed to introduce fresh outdoor air into the building while recovering and transferring heat or energy from the outgoing air. This helps maintain indoor comfort without wasting energy, and it also ensures a continuous flow of fresh air, reducing the buildup of pollutants.
• Central Humidifying or Dehumidifying Equipment: Maintaining appropriate humidity levels is crucial for indoor air quality. Central humidifiers can add moisture to dry indoor air, preventing issues like dry skin and respiratory irritation. On the other hand, dehumidifiers can help reduce excess humidity, which can contribute to mold growth and other moisture-related problems.

Combining these measures can significantly improve indoor air quality and create a more comfortable and healthier living or working environment. Regular maintenance of ventilation systems and filters is essential to ensure their effectiveness in capturing and removing pollutants.

Educating occupants about indoor air quality and promoting good ventilation practices can also contribute to a healthier indoor environment. Properly designed and implemented measures can help strike a balance between energy efficiency and maintaining excellent indoor air quality, benefiting the well-being of occupants and the overall sustainability of buildings.