Ventilation in the Home

When creating an energy-efficient, airtight home through air sealing techniques, it's very important to consider ventilation. Unless properly ventilated, an airtight home can seal in indoor air pollutants. Ventilation also helps control moisture--another important consideration for a healthy, energy-efficient home.

Purpose of Ventilation
Your home needs ventilation--the exchange of indoor air with outdoor air--to reduce indoor pollutants, moisture, and odors. Contaminants such as formaldehyde, volatile organic compounds, and radon can accumulate in poorly ventilated homes, causing health problems. Excess moisture in a home can generate high humidity levels. High humidity levels can lead to mold growth and structural damage to your home.

There are three basic ventilation strategies:

• Natural ventilation:Uncontrolled air movement into a home through cracks, small holes, and vents, such as windows and doors. Not recommended for tightly sealed homes.
  
• Whole-house ventilation:Controlled air movement using one or more fans and duct systems.
  
• Spot ventilation:Controlled air movement using localized exhaust fans to quickly remove pollutants and moisture at their source. Typically used in conjunction with one of the other strategies.