Ventilation Audit

Our Energy Audit services include ventilation evaluation, but we also offer a more in-depth indoor air quality inspection and ventilation audit.

For a ventilation audit, we will examine the efficiency of exhaust vents and attic venting systems in the home and determine if they are functioning correct. We use a special vent box to determine the efficiency of these items and make sure they are operating correctly. We also evaluate whether you are providing the home enough mechanical ventilation to allow proper air exchange.  Trends in home building have been evolving to create more and more air tightness for the home envelope. Because of this, many homes have moisture problems and indoor air quality issues as the air in the home is too stagnant. We evaluate the effectiveness of these interior ventilation systems.

INDOOR AIR QUALITY

Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a term referring to the air quality within and around buildings and structures, especially as it relates to the health and comfort of building occupants.

IAQ can be affected by microbial contaminants (mold, bacteria), gases (including carbon monoxide, radon, volatile organic compounds), particulates, or any mass or energy stressor that can induce adverse health conditions. Indoor air is becoming an increasingly more concerning health hazard than outdoor air. Using ventilation to dilute contaminants, filtration, and source control are the primary methods for improving indoor air quality in most buildings.

Determination of IAQ involves the collection of air samples, monitoring human exposure to pollutants, collection of samples on building surfaces and computer models of air flow inside buildings.

COMMON POLLUTANTS

• Radon
• Molds and other allergens
• Carbon monoxide
• Volatile organic compounds
• Asbestos fibers
• Carbon dioxide

ATTIC VENTILATION

Based on calculation guidelines for ventilation, we will determine whether your home has proper intake/exhaust ventilation for the attic space. This includes in-venting (soffit vents or gable vents) and out-venting (ridge vent or box vents) and determines whether the home is balanced or if the system is working correctly. Improper venting in the attic space can lead to major issues with condensation on the roof underdeck or overheating of the attic space which could have far-reaching effects.