Climate Change & Indoor Air Quality

We often think of climate change as something that affects the world outside: hotter summer temperatures, colder winters and more severe weather, like hurricanes, in some areas or drought in others.

But climate change affects the air in our homes as well. Warmer outside air eventually leads to warmer air in the home, which can lead to higher energy bills. Colder winters also bring energy challenges. Excess moisture from precipitation can cause mold growth indoors. Overly dry conditions can lead to wildfires, and in turn more particulates in the air. Changing outside conditions can also drive insects and other pests to seek shelter or food indoors, which then leads to the need for pesticides which affect indoor air quality.

Newer homes are often designed with climate change in mind. They are much more airtight than older homes, which helps keep the temperature constant and moisture from leaking in.   

Older homes can also be weatherized (insulated and sealed) to minimize the impact. Weatherizing can help offset the effects of extreme heat or cold by making the home airtight. But because it is airtight, a properly weatherized home needs a balanced ventilation system to constantly move fresh air into the home and carry dampness and contaminants like secondhand smoke, carbon dioxide and VOCs out. Zehnder America’s Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV) or Enthalpy Recovery Ventilation (ERV) will help keep the air in weatherized homes clean, healthy and comfortable while saving homeowners money on energy bills. ERV’s also help regulate humidity in the home. Request a quote today.