Gilroy Today 2014 03 Spring | Page 38

Energy Efficiency - Protecting Your Health

By Pamela Garcia , CEO Affordable Solar Roofs

With the continuing effort to achieve more energy efficient homes , implementing various approaches to save money on utilities , and attempts to create a more comfortable indoor environment , these “ well intentioned methods ” may be responsible for creating an unintended health hazard for ourselves and our families . Super “ air-tight ” homes with minimal ventilation and low outdoor air exchange rates can result in elevated levels of indoor air pollutants that threaten occupant health . According to the U . S . Environmental Protection Agency , indoor air quality is four to five times worse than outdoor air quality !

It is important therefore , that consumers be aware of the condition of the indoor air quality in their homes . Most household materials “ off-gas ” toxic fumes from such sources as paint , carpeting , adhesives , furniture , cabinets , cleaning products , and a myriad of other sources . Most fumes can escape through windows , doors , attics , and numerous other spaces in the home . However , as the building ’ s envelope gets more and more air-tight , there are less places for the toxic chemicals to escape . Here are some helpful hints in the quest to mitigate some of these concerns :
• Utilize attic fans , window fans or window air conditioners with the vent control open .
• Install and operate kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans that vent outdoors ( often required by code ). These work well to remove contaminants localized in the kitchen and bath .
• Install semi-controlled ventilation . These systems include a return duct to connect outdoor air with the central return and an exhaust fan to remove indoor pollutants .
• Seal all ducts to keep unwanted toxic fumes from entering the return ducts and being circulated throughout the home . This is especially true in the basement , where paint , fertilizers and other sources of household chemicals are often stored .
• Confirm the presence of balanced attic venting , both intake vents as well has outflow venting , such as ridge venting , attic fans , or other passive air vents .
Most homeowners are , frankly , incapable of accurately evaluating the current condition of their indoor air quality . Therefore , contacting a certified
building performance professional ( BPI Analysis ) from a full service energy solutions company like Affordable Solar Roofs may be the best solution available to the homeowner . ( affordablesolarroofs . com )
In spite of the challenges outlined here , It is possible to have your cake and eat it too . That is , creating healthy indoor air quality without sacrificing your energy efficiency goals for the home . Achieving this goal , however , requires attention to detail by a conscientious homeowner who should be aware of the energy wasters in the home , be willing to reduce energy use any way possible , and be proactive in utilizing the various ways available to maintain healthy indoor air quality .
Finally , due to the continuing increases in the costs of electricity by utility companies , many astute homeowners are utilizing SOLAR energy as a means to “ take control ” of their energy , and save significant amounts of money . Along with the current Federal and local rebates available , ( 30 % tax credit for SOLAR is still available from the Federal government ), it behooves building owners and homeowners alike to investigate Solar Energy as an affordable , alternative energy source .
Be safe , be efficient , and be smart by protecting your home , your health , and your pocket book .
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