Breathe Easier: Improving Air Quality in Your Home

We all want a tight, energy-efficient home. It saves money on heating and cooling. However, a tight house can trap stale air.

In the old days, houses were “leaky” or “drafty”. Fresh air moved through cracks in windows and doors. Modern homes are built much better today. We use high-performance insulation and tight seals.

This is great for your wallet. It is not always great for your lungs. Trapped air can hold dust, allergens, and chemicals. Improving air quality is a key part of every dream home.

What is Make-Up Air?

Think about your kitchen range hood. When it’s on high, it pulls a lot of air out. In a tight house, that air must be replaced.

“Make-up air” is a system that brings fresh air back in. Balancing the pressure in your home. Without it, your fans might not work correctly. It prevents “back-drafting” from your fireplace or furnace. This keeps your family safe and comfortable.

The ERV Solution

ERV stands for Energy Recovery Ventilator. Think of it as your home’s lungs.

An ERV pulls stale air out of your house. At the same time, it pulls fresh air in. The two air streams pass each other in a core. They don’t mix, but they trade heat.

In winter, the outgoing air warms the incoming fresh air. In summer, it helps cool it down. They provide fresh air without wasting your energy. It is a true “Win/Win” for homeowners.

Comparison of Air Quality Methods

The Almar Approach

At Almar, we don’t just build walls. Our Team builds systems that keep you healthy. We consider air quality during the Project Development phase.

We want your home to be a safe and comfortable place. That means the air should be as clean as the design.

Want to learn more about the science of clean air? We recommend checking out the American Lung Association’s Guide to Healthy Air at Home. It’s a great resource for homeowners who want to protect their family’s health.

Are you ready to build a healthier home? Let’s talk about your vision today.