While tighter homes save energy, they also can trap moisture and airborne contaminants like VOCs inside your home. To combat indoor air pollution, install bath and kitchen vent fans that are vented to the outside, and regularly change air filters on your heating and cooling system.

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In our effort to promote green living, we’re emphasizing how important it is to completely seal the “envelope” of your home to prevent the escape of conditioned air and, as a result, the escape of energy dollars. The problem that causes, though, is an increase in poor indoor air quality. That’s why it’s important to maintain your bath fans, stove vents and heating & cooling system to help rid your house of airborne contaminates. A good way to visualize this is to think of your home as a fish tank and the water as your breathable air. Unless that water is being recirculated or changed, you know how nasty and cloudy that water can get. The drawback with home ventilation fans has always been the noise, but now there are whisper-quiet systems that you have to check to make sure they’re even running. Plus, your home will be healthier and more comfortable.