Residential Indoor Air Quality

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Several months ago, I wrote a Duct Dynasty article titled “Four Steps to Optimize a Duct System.” Since then, I’ve received numerous requests to expand on the simple calculations I mentioned that can help you estimate room airflow with a customer’s input.

Poor ventilation leads to water damage, mold, and other issues in the home that cause respiratory problems, allergies, and other illnesses for the occupants.

The residential high-efficiency air movement and ventilation market has garnered a lot of attention recently as concerns over maintaining healthy indoor environments…

When you think of first responders, HVACR contractors don’t usually come to mind. However, they are first on the scene in the dead of winter with negative wind chills for no heat calls or in the sweltering summer heat for no air calls.

The air duct calculator, or “ductulator,” is a commonly used tool for designing and installing duct systems. Unfortunately, many designers and technicians receive limited instructions on its correct use.

There seem to be fewer family-owned mechanical companies every year, especially in the South where fast a/c service is king, and competition is as fierce as anywhere in the country.

A question I’m frequently asked is, where do you start when improving a poorly performing duct system? Do you tear it out and start over again, or is there an easier way? The good news is, there is a simple, logical pattern you can follow to optimize a duct system.

Being accountable for proper airflow delivery causes a tech to examine every portion of an installation differently. Airflow is no longer assumed since test instruments now measure it. Let’s look at some of the most common obstacles to achieving a successful air balance on a residential HVAC system.

Though consumers are becoming more familiar with IAQ, it’s important for HVAC contractors to facilitate conversations that focus on indoor environmental problems and solutions and then let them make their own decisions.

Mold can be found everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. However, it’s usually not a problem until it begins growing indoors. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, exposure to mold can cause a number of health effects and symptoms, including allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory complaints. Mold can be a serious issue if left untreated, which is perhaps one of the reasons most HVAC contractors tend to avoid it.