Ventilation

Spot Ventilation

Bathrooms and Kitchens

Use exhaust fans in bathrooms (at least 50 CFM) and range hoods in kitchens (at least 100 CFM) to remove moisture and odors. Make sure these fans vent air outside your home.

When to Use

Turn on these fans while bathing or cooking to help remove moisture and odors quickly.

Whole-House Ventilation

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Why It's Important

Natural ventilation often isn't enough for good indoor air quality. Whole-house systems provide consistent and controlled ventilation throughout your home.

Different Types

Exhaust Ventilation Systems

These systems remove air from your home, creating a slight vacuum. They are simple and low-cost but might not work well in humid areas and can draw in air from unwanted places.

Supply Ventilation Systems

These systems bring fresh outdoor air into your home. They can work independently with their own ducts or connect to your central air system.

Balanced Ventilation Systems

These systems balance the air pressure by bringing in and removing equal amounts of air. Examples include Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) and Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs), which also help with energy efficiency.

Additional System Considerations

1. Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV):
   HRVs use a heat exchanger to transfer heat from outgoing indoor air to incoming outdoor air, working well in colder, dryer climates.
2. Energy Recovery Ventilation (ERV):
   ERVs transfer heat and moisture between outgoing and incoming air, making them suitable for all climates, including humid areas.
3. Dehumidifying Ventilation Systems:
   These systems dehumidify outdoor air as it enters the home, ideal for humid climates where relying solely on the central air conditioner for dehumidification is inefficient.

Enhancing Natural Ventilation

• Wind and Stack Effect:
  Utilize the wind and stack effect to enhance natural ventilation. Open windows to allow wind to push air through the home, and use the stack effect by opening windows at lower and upper levels to create a convection current.
• Landscaping:
  Landscaping elements like windbreaks (fences, hedges, trees) can direct airflow into or away from your home to enhance ventilation.

Cooling Through Ventilation

• Air Exchange for Cooling:
  This method is cost-effective and energy-efficient but only suitable for mild, dry climates or specific times of the year. Combine air exchange with techniques to avoid heat buildup, such as shading and using ceiling or window fans.
• Limitations in Humid Climates:
  In hot, humid climates, ventilation alone may not be sufficient due to small temperature swings and high moisture levels. Supplement with mechanical cooling and dehumidification.

Effective ventilation is essential for maintaining indoor air quality and comfort in energy-efficient homes. By choosing the right ventilation system and enhancing natural ventilation, you can ensure a healthier and more comfortable living environment.

Take Action

For more tips and detailed information on home cooling and ventilation, visit our Energy Saver 101 infographic on home cooling. Start optimizing your home’s ventilation today to improve comfort, save energy, and enhance indoor air quality.