How a Ventilator Can Freshen the Air in Your House

Originally published in May 2018

Ventilators are the perfect solution for stuffy rooms in tightly sealed homes. New buildings are energy efficient, but they sometimes have trouble with indoor pollution. In fact, problems like sick building syndrome are linked to inadequate ventilation.

In the past, you’d open the windows to air out your home, but this is an outdated practice. A ventilator can do the job more effectively and efficiently.

Types of Mechanical Ventilation Systems

Mechanical ventilation systems, including the Carrier-branded products that we install, feature powered fans, incoming and outgoing air ducts and possibly a heat exchanger. These products work in tandem with your central heating and cooling system.

• A fresh air vent is the most basic type of mechanical ventilator. It uses fans to release controlled amounts of indoor air and to bring in fresh outdoor air at the same time.
• Heat recovery ventilator (HRV) systems work similarly, but they feature a heat exchanger that transfers energy between the outgoing and incoming air so that your HVAC system doesn’t have to work harder.
• Energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) go a step further by transferring heat and moderating the humidity. These products are well suited for areas like Chamblee, Georgia, that experience considerable heat and humidity.

What Kinds of Pollutants Can a Ventilator Remove?

Mechanical ventilation systems excel at exhausting and diluting pollutants that filtration systems can’t capture. They’re ideal for controlling the following contaminants.

• Volatile organic compounds, such as formaldehyde, toluene, acetone and ethanol, that are found in fragrances, cleansers, adhesives, furniture and building materials
• Biological aerosols that occur when microbes, pet dander and pathogens break down into increasingly tiny airborne particles
• Carbon dioxide generated by breathing, cooking or burning candles, which causes drowsiness in elevated concentrations

A whole-house ventilation system can help you enjoy cleaner, fresher indoor air. For more ways to improve your home’s indoor air quality, check out our range of Carrier IAQ products, or call Ful-Bro Heating and Air Conditioning at 678-369-0500.

https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/improving-indoor-air-quality#Ventilation_Improvements

https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/weatherize/ventilation/whole-house-ventilation