When a house has gaps, the air that could enter could be low-quality air from crawl spaces, garages, etc. Instead, an airtight house allows us to control ventilation better, which can help us create conditions with higher indoor air quality.

Ventilation is just one piece of the IAQ puzzle, and airtightness and source control are key parts of that. Source control requires us to remove sources of poor indoor air quality. Moisture control is another key element, meaning that we have to remove humidity in humid climates and add just the right amount in dry climates. Filtration is another key part, especially by using MERV 13 filtration with a minimal pressure drop across the filter; proper sizing is crucial.

Dr. Bailes also gives some tips for success in the industry, including questioning things you’ve been told and making sure you keep learning.

Check out Dr. Bailes’s book at https://www.energyvanguard.com/book-h….

Learn more about the HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium.