How Does the Air Escape? Healthy Home Solutions

Whole House Moisture and Humidity Control

The house as a system in based on building science research that was started during the energy crisis of the 70’s. Princeton University led the way and designed an infiltrometer that can be used to measure the air tightness of a structure. The researchers at Princeton called this air movement into and out of homes infiltration and exfiltration. They found a direct correlation between the uncontrolled air movement into and out of homes and energy expenses.

This unwanted air movement for which Five Star Plumbing Heating Cooling uses the acronym, MAD AIR, is a combination of poor design and construction, antiquated plumbing systems, and or inefficient and poorly installed air distribution systems (ductwork) which create multiple problems. The home owner sees these problems as mold, dirt, and high energy bills (Utility Overpayment). Most home owners are so conditioned to Utility Overpayment that they don’t know that they could improve their environment at less utility cost. In general home owners are frustrated and upset that their energy bills are high and that their home is still not comfortable!

Because of these problems and the need to identify them. Five Star Plumbing Heating Cooling approaches the house as a system. Our comfort advisors use an infiltrometer to test homes to see the problems. If you don’t test, its just a guess.

About the house as a system, Larry says:
“Make it Tight, Insulate it Right, Ventilate, Dehumidify, and Purify for COMFORT SAVINGS AND HEALTH"

Healthy Home Solutions

Healthy Home Solutions are a result of merging green building science, heating and air conditioning, indoor air quality, and related home repairs into an integrated system that addresses the complete home from the ground through the peak of the roof with emphasis on reducing energy consumption and providing a healthy environment.

Make it Tight 
The air movement into and out of a structure is stopped by what we call the pressure boundary. Making it Tight requires an infiltrometer test to identify the air leakage sites in the pressure boundary. Then your comfort advisor can help you with a plan to make needed repairs.

Insulate it Right 
The Thermal Boundary should be complete with the Pressure Boundary. Your comfort advisor can help you identify these problems and provide solutions as well. Because 60+% of the homes energy is lost through the attic, we provide Attic Energy Upgrades that increase your comfort and lower your utility bills. Link to Applegate brochure and the files on the CD that I have sent.

Ventilate 
Every home needs fresh air and this standard has been established by the USDOE. Our comfort advisor can test and advise about the needed amount. But there is good infiltration or makeup air and bad infiltration. Good infiltration is what comes in around windows and doors when the wind blows. Bad infiltration is what comes from the crawl space and attic because of MAD AIR problems.

Dehumidify
Air conditioners are not dehumidifiers. You may need a dedicated system to provide the proper indoor air quality. Link to Air Purifying Dehumidifier

Ten Components of a Healthy Home
 

  1. Pressure Boundary
  2. Thermal Boundary
  3. Air Distribution System (ductwork)
  4. Heating System
  5. Cooling System
  6. Utility or Operating Expense
  7. Air Filtration or Purification
  8. Moisture Levels (Humidify or Dehumidify)
  9. Sound Levels
  10. Attached and unheated spaces

Purify 
Every cubic foot of air in your home contains all of the allergens that cause health problems. Your comfort depends on lowering the amount in the air. You cannot remove 100% but you can lower the concentration. Our whole house high efficiency air filters and purifiers can help you live better. Link to Lennox Pure Air brochure

Consultation
 

Our comfort advisors are specially trained to help you with these questions about your home. At the end of this five step investigative and solution oriented process, you will be on the way to a real Comfort System for your home.

Even our plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical service technicians are trained in the house as a system so that they can spot the major problems. Every service technician who calls on you will evaluate your home’s systems to identify the best solution for your home. Five Star Plumbing Heating Cooling sets the standard for providing the Whole House Solution. Our focus is on providing you top quality service and repair by making sure all of your plumbing, electrical and mechanical systems are running efficiently and smoothly.