Ventilation puts the V in HVAC! It’s an essential component of your heating and cooling system, but many people don’t know what it is and why it’s important.
Here’s why it’s so crucial for your home’s health and comfort:
First, what is ventilation?
Several components comprise a functioning HVAC system: heating, cooling, ventilation, and sometimes de-humidification and humidification. Ventilation’s job is to add enough fresh air from outside to the indoor air in your home or building.
Without it, your indoor air would become stuffy and stagnant. In some instances, lack of ventilation can lead to health issues, especially for those who suffer from allergies or asthma. Proper ventilation can also prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses.
How can you ventilate your home?
In the winter, we like to keep our homes sealed tight to prevent the warm air from escaping. So how can we ventilate our homes without losing efficiency?
Mechanical ventilation can be a part of your HVAC system. A ventilator provides a consistent supply of fresh outdoor air to your indoor space. You can adjust it to pull in just the right amount of fresh air, depending on how often your furnace runs.
Your home should also have exhaust vents like a kitchen and bathroom van. These exhaust fans help expel moisture and help prevent mould and mildew growth. In addition, kitchen exhaust fans can help eliminate lingering cooking odours and remove fumes from the stove and oven.
If it’s not too cold, you can also crack a window open, one room at a time, for a few minutes to let in some fresh air. In addition, you can run your ceiling fan in “winter mode” and reverse the blade direction, so it pushes warm air down and cool air up.
Air filtration is also essential
Adequate filtration can also play a significant role in your indoor air quality. You should install HVAC filters with high MERV ratings. A high-quality air filter will help filter out smaller particulate matter from the air, including dust, dander, and other allergens. Check your air filters regularly throughout the winter to ensure they’re clean, especially if you smoke or have pets in the house.
In addition, replace your HVAC filter every three months or according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Replacing the filter will ensure allergens and debris aren’t blown around your house. Additionally, it reduces strain on your HVAC system, prevents breakdowns, and improves efficiency.
Have questions about ventilation? We have the answers! Reach out to our team today.
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