Fresh Air - 2 Easy Options
2 Options to let the people breath
(start with our air sealing post, then come back to this one)
If you have been thinking to yourself this entire time that “houses need to breath”, then you are not alone. The short answer is that this is a dated way of thinking, and the correct way to consider this is: we (people) need to breath, our buildings: no so much. At the end of the day, our buildings need to keep bulk water out, allow moisture to dry through the use of proper materials in the correct places, and allow the occupants to breath in peace. To allow the occupants to breathe, there are two simple mechanical devices that can be used:
The fresh air damper
Fresh Air Damper
The most cost effective option is a fresh air damper. It's on a timer and will open about 10 minutes every hour (adjustable) to allow your HVAC equipment to bring in outside air through its filtration system. This is a cost effective option, but you lose a very minimal amount of efficiency since that hot/cold outside air still needs to be conditioned when it comes in.
2. Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) - {Southern Climates}
Conceptual Diagram of an ERV
An Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) is a mechanical ventilation system that exchanges stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air, while transferring heat and moisture between the two air streams. This process helps maintain indoor air quality and comfort by reducing energy loss associated with heating or cooling incoming air. ERVs are particularly effective in Atlanta’s hot, humid climate where managing both temperature and humidity is crucial. The costs here are considerably higher than a simple fresh air damper, but the results are better. Expect to pay around $3-4k.
Source: HVAC Quick ERV and HRV