Question 1

How do I improve air quality in my basement?

Accepted Answer

Improving air quality in your basement is a great goal, and there are several effective strategies that work together to make a real difference.

Start with moisture control, since basements in Ottawa are prone to humidity issues, especially during our humid summers. High moisture leads to mold growth, musty odors, and poor air quality throughout your whole home. A quality dehumidifier sized for your basement (look for 50-70 pint capacity for most Ottawa basements) is often the single biggest im

Question 2

What is an air exchanger and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

An air exchanger (also called an HRV - Heat Recovery Ventilator, or ERV - Energy Recovery Ventilator) is a mechanical ventilation system that brings fresh outdoor air into your home while simultaneously exhausting stale indoor air, recovering most of the heat energy in the process.

Why Air Exchangers Matter in Modern Homes

Today's homes are built much more airtight than they used to be, especially newer construction in Ottawa. While this is great for energy efficiency, it creates a problem: wi

Question 3

What is a HEPA filter and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A HEPA filter (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) is a premium air filter that captures 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns or larger, including dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and some bacteria. These filters use dense mats of fine fibers to trap microscopic particles that standard furnace filters miss.

Most residential HVAC systems cannot accommodate true HEPA filters because they create too much airflow restriction for standard furnace blowers. True HEPA filters are typically 4-6 inches thi

Question 4

Should I get an HRV or ERV for my home?

Accepted Answer

The choice between an HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator) and ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilator) depends on your home's humidity levels and your family's comfort preferences. In Ottawa's climate, most homes benefit from an HRV, but ERVs work better in homes that tend to be too dry.

HRVs are ideal for most Ottawa homes because they exchange stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air while recovering heat energy. During our cold winters, HRVs help prevent excess humidity buildup that can lead to condensati

Question 5

What humidity level should my house be in winter?

Accepted Answer

Indoor humidity during Ottawa winters should be maintained between 30-40% to balance comfort, health, and protection of your home. This range prevents the air from becoming too dry while avoiding condensation problems that can lead to mold and structural damage.

Why winter humidity matters so much in our climate is that cold outdoor air holds very little moisture. When that frigid air enters your home and gets heated, it becomes extremely dry - often dropping below 20% relative humidity. This d

Question 6

Can my HVAC system help with allergies?

Accepted Answer

Yes, your HVAC system can significantly help reduce allergens in your home when properly maintained and equipped with the right filtration components. A well-functioning HVAC system continuously circulates and filters indoor air, capturing many common allergens like dust mites, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores.

Air filtration is the key component for allergy relief. Standard 1-inch furnace filters only capture large particles, but upgrading to a high-efficiency filter (MERV 11-13) can trap m

Question 7

How do I reduce dust in my house?

Accepted Answer

Dust reduction starts with your HVAC system - upgrading your furnace filter and ensuring proper airflow are the most effective steps you can take. A high-quality MERV 11-13 filter will capture significantly more dust particles than basic fiberglass filters, though you'll need to change it more frequently.

Your ductwork plays a crucial role in dust circulation. Over time, dust, pet dander, and debris accumulate in your ducts and get blown throughout your home every time your furnace or AC runs.

Question 8

Are UV air purifiers worth it?

Accepted Answer

UV air purifiers can be effective for killing certain microorganisms, but they're not a magic solution for all indoor air quality issues. The effectiveness depends on your specific needs, existing HVAC system, and what air quality problems you're trying to solve.

UV-C lights work by damaging the DNA of bacteria, viruses, and mold spores as air passes through your HVAC system. They're most effective against biological contaminants and can help reduce odors caused by microbial growth. However, UV

Indoor Air Quality