Home ventilation problems are some of the most elusive and tricky things that homeowners have to put up with. Unlike electrical or plumbing issues, there’s nothing that right away points that you have a ventilation problem – no leaks or soaring electricity bill. But if you’re still determined to find if you have any underlying home ventilation issue, then read on.
Problem No. 1: Foggy Windows
While we experience foggy windows every now and then, but when you have foggy windows day in a day out, this may signal a ventilation problem. This is extremely common in places which are found geographically north of the map and the problem occurs because the humidity level within the house becomes excessive. The extra water found in moist air is deposited on the surface of glass panes which leads to fogginess. The problem can escalate when ice develops on the base of windows.
There are two ways to solve this problem – reducing the moisture level to 40% or increasing the heat to keep the glass from developing fog. A heat recovery ventilator is very helpful in lowering the moisture level to below 40%. In choosing such kind of ventilator, opt for one which has an active heat pump so that water can be extracted from the moist air.
Problem No. 2: Damp Basements
This is an ironic house problem especially since the issue of damp basements often occurs during summer. This is due to the high level of humidity of outside air which leads to a lot of moisture. The problem can also be due to underground water which happens when water drains poorly in the soil or inadequate foundation damproofing. Capillary action of water can cause underground water to go through the foundation.
There are two routes which you can take to solve this problem – the expensive and the more affordable routes. You can opt to replace your house’s foundation drains or go through the damproofing once more and then start digging around your house which is the pricey solution to the problem. But if you do not have enough cash lying around, then take the cheaper approach and instead dehumidify the air found in your basement. Before you take the cheapest approach and skip on all of these measures, think about the odors and mildew that would inevitably develop with the humid air found in your basement and how much of a health hazard all that could be.
Phil Farell is an avid blogger who loves to write awesome tips about home ventilation
