OVERVIEW
As buildings become more airtight and energy efficient, actively managing indoor air quality becomes more important. Not only are some air pollutants highly dangerous, but many—like radon and carbon monoxide—are undetectable by human senses. And with 90% of our time typically spent indoors, slight elevations of VOCs can amount to chronic exposures.
Here you’ll learn what pollutants to be wary of and ways to promote clean, fresh air, including:
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finding the right level of ventilation
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specifying products that won’t emit problematic chemicals
- controlling pressure differentials to avoid unintentional introduction of polluted air
IN-DEPTH
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Demand-Controlled Ventilation: Fresh Air Only When You Need It
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Balancing the need for fresh air with minimizing energy use is difficult. Demand-controlled ventilation is the responsive solution.
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VOC Testing: What It Can and Can’t Tell You
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“Section 01350” has come a long way since it acquired its curious nickname. Here’s what it can tell you about indoor air quality—and what it can’t.
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How Environmental Site Assessments Work
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Existing buildings and previously developed sites are great, but they often need environmental cleanup. An ESA is the first step.
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Three Sources of Air-Pressure Problems in Buildings
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Air movement in and through buildings caused by pressure differentials has important effects on performance and safety.
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Choosing Between an ERV and an HRV
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Don't get fooled into buying a more expensive and complex system if what you really need is a dehumidifier.
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Post-Occupancy Evaluations: Ignorance Isn't Bliss
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POEs tell you everything you ever wanted to know about your buildings. Don't be afraid to ask.
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Radon Risks and Prevention
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Radon, the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., can get into our homes and bodies without us knowing it-and its presence doesn't depend on geology or locale.
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Programmable Thermostats
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Programmable thermostats can save a lot of energy, but to do so, they have to be operated correctly.
