Ventilation, is the mechanical replacement of bad air with good air. When we talk about ventilation relating to a home, we refer to the exchange of indoor with outdoor air.
Ventilation is actually a combination of processes which result in the supply and removal of air from inside a home. This process typically includes bringing in outdoor air, filtering that air and conditioning it before it is distributed though out the home, mainly into living areas, where people spend most of their time. At the same time, air from inside the home is being pulled outside. Certain locations in the home produce air that is not ideal for a healthy indoor environment. The quality of indoor air may deteriorate when one or more of these processes are inadequate. Without proper ventilation, a home will seal in harmful pollutants, (such as carbon monoxide, odors, VOCs and moisture) that can damage a home, cause issues with indoor air quality and problems with the heating and air conditioning system.

Why is Ventilation Important?

Poorly ventilated homes will allow combustion gasses from fuel burning appliances, pollutants from cleaning products/pesticides, and off gases from products we buy, to accumulate inside the home, causing a potential risk to people and pets inside the home. Excessive moisture from improperly ventilated bathrooms, or other high humidity areas in the home can also threaten your health, and can lead to organic growth, ruin insulation, and even cause structural damage. Additionally, elevated levels of humidity can make cooling equipment work harder, leading to more costly energy bills. Homes without proper ventilation will also have a harder time with unpleasant smells. Pet dander, laundry rooms and stale air will allow undesirable smells to be locked in the home. Ventilating a home takes into account the physical layout of the home and areas that produce unhealthy air. Once these areas are identified, proper steps can be taken to introduced controlled air into the home. Ventilation is a critical factor in a home. It is as important as the color of the walls or the back splash in the kitchen.