20/04/2012 Why is good indoor air quality so important?
Ventilation is essential in a home as it ensures that the indoor air quality is maintained. But why is this important? There are many reasons why you need a supply of fresh air, the main ones are listed:
- Removal of odours
- Control of condensation
- Health of the occupants
- Removal of pollutants such as VOCs
- Removal of allergens produced from dust mites etc
- Safe operation of combustion appliances
The ventilation system you choose to put into your home should meet a total whole house ventilation rate of 0.5 - 1 air changes per hour, this keeps relative humidity from exceeding 70% for long periods of time. Part F of the Building Regs suggest a minimum of 8 litres of fresh air per second to be provided per person!
"The majority of adverse health effects caused by relative humidity would be minimized by maintaining indoor levels between 40% - 60%" according to (Arundel A V n.d., p.351-361).
If relative humidity is too high there is an increased risk of condensation, mould growth as well as poor health.
How to achieve good indoor air quality?
At the very start of your project you need to consider how you are going to ventilate your property, this strategy should be designed together with the airtightness strategy.
There are many ventilation options available to help maintain good indoor air quality, including:
Heat Recovery Ventilation Systems
View our Guide to Ventilation for more information on which ventilation system is right for your new project and you! Also check out the Good Homes Alliance.
