Increasing Awareness Influences New Ventilation Products

摘要

People want to breathe clean, fresh air, which has thrust IAQ into the mainstream. This thriving consumer and contractor awareness is serving as a catalyst for manufacturers as they strive to develop new, cutting-edge ventilation products. Patricia Monks, product manager, Panasonic Corp. of North America, said IAQ is now listed as one of the top five environmental threats by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). "The increase in IAQ problems seems inextricably linked to houses that are being built tighter and tighter," Monks said. "Although the answer seems simple - stop building tight homes - it's not that simple. As energy costs escalate and energy conservation becomes a matter of national concern, energy codes respond and specify tighter, more energy-efficient houses. Tight houses can actually negatively impact IAQ as moist and polluted air gets trapped in the home. Indoor pollutants are virtually impossible to eliminate completely. Therefore, mechanical ventilation is necessary to guarantee good IAQ."