Synopsis

This 2011 Fully Updated guide presents a variety of recommendations for improving indoor air quality in residential buildings through controlled mechanical ventilation. These recommendations are intended to illustrate principles of best practice.

The primary purpose of mechanical ventilation is to provide a controlled exchange of more polluted inside air for less polluted inside air. Source control, low air leakage, proper system operation, and climate-specific design work together to provide an effective and energy efficient space conditioning or ventilation system.

This guide presents a variety of recommendations for improving indoor air quality in residential buildings through controlled mechanical ventilation. These recommendations are not intended to apply to every conceivable situation but are intended to illustrate principles of best practice.