Issue link: https://hi.iaq.net/i/650064
10 PRIORITY ISSUES ASSESSMENT PROTOCOLS Minimum Actions Expanded Actions • Wet or damp spots. • Musty odor. • Moisture damage on windows. • Groundwater, surface water and rainwater intrusion. • Plumbing leaks. • Condensation. • Consider temperature, relative humidity and absolute humidity (e.g., dew point temperature and humidity ratio [i.e., pounds or grains of water vapor per pound of dry air]). Determine whether the project requires mold remediation and additional moisture control measures (e.g., as determined during a Weatherization Assistance Program audit). Document which moisture problems will be addressed as part of the energy-conserving project, and which must be repaired by the homeowner or another contractor before certain, specific energy conserving measures can be implemented. If moisture issues cannot be addressed, do not install energy upgrades that will reduce the home's air infiltration rate. Homes where this may be the case include those that have significant condensation or humidity problems, such as condensation on multiple windows, condensation in attics or significant moisture or mold problems that are beyond the scope of the remedies under Minimum Actions. See Appendix A: Worker Protection – Mold and Confined Spaces as appropriate. Manage rainwater in assemblies receiving retrofits (e.g., drainage planes and flashings), following guidance in EPA's Indoor airPLUS Construction Specifications 1.5 and 1.6. Ensure proper HVAC condensate drainage. Prevent condensation in the enclosure by: • Air sealing the enclosure. Note: This also prevents ice dams in cold, snowy climates. • Managing water vapor flow and condensing surface temperatures to avoid dew point conditions (achieved by selection of materials with appropriate combination of R-value and vapor permeability). • Managing air pressure relationships as needed. • Controlling indoor humidity sources, for example: • Ensuring bath fans are operating properly and vented to the outdoors. • Ensuring clothes dryers are correctly vented to the outdoors. • Covering earthen floors in basements and crawlspaces with sealed vapor barriers; seal sump crocks. • If adding an air conditioning (AC) unit, ensure it is sized properly. If the relative humidity or moisture in the air is high, evaluate whether the AC unit is oversized. • Install dehumidifiers, if appropriate. • Remove unvented combustion space heaters. • Ensure proper crawlspace ventilation. • Ensure proper attic ventilation, unless sealed or conditioned. Conduct any required mold remediation following EPA or other professional guidance (see see Appendix A, Mold section, page 34). See Mold and Moisture section in Appendix B: Client Education. Perform additional activities, beyond those required for the weatherization project, in order to remediate any mold growth. Follow EPA or other professional guidance (see Appendix A, Mold section, page 34). Relevant Guidance/Standards EPA Indoor airPLUS Specification: 1.4. EPA Mold Remediation. (Continued on next page) MOISTURE (MOLD AND OTHER BIOLOGICALS) (continued)