Issue link: https://hi.iaq.net/i/655416
10 Energy Savings Plus Health | INDOOR AIR QUALITY GUIDELINES FOR MULTIFAMILY BUILDING UPGRADES Examples of Multifamily Residential Building Upgrade Projects Examples of IAQ/Health Risks and Opportunities Potentially Applicable Priority Issues HEATING, VENTILATION AND AIR CONDITIONING (HVAC) SYSTEMS Ducts, Fan Coils and Unit Ventilators • Adding or replacing ducts • Sealing and insulating air ducts • Altering or cleaning fan coil and unit ventilators IAQ/Health Risks: • Asbestos-containing material, lead paint, mold or other debris may be disturbed during duct installation, sealing or replacement. • Improper condensate drainage can present an opportunity for bacterial or mold growth in units with cooling coils. • Humid climates may require additional dehumidification when the outdoor air supply is increased. • Ductwork that is not properly sealed and insulated can lead to condensation problems if it passes through unconditioned spaces. • Improper modifications to HVAC systems can cause unbalanced flows and pressures that can lead to increased intrusion of moisture, radon and other belowground contaminants. • Excessive moisture promotes pest infestation. • Ventilation systems may be contaminated with PCBs if PCBs have migrated via indoor air from caulk and/or lighting ballasts that contain PCBs. • Noisy ventilation systems may be turned off by occupants, which will negatively affect ventilation. Opportunities: • Contain and do not disturb areas of significant mold contamination until these areas can be remediated. • Reduce entry of airborne contaminants into the building; maintain interior humidity levels. • Select low-VOC and formaldehyde-free products. • Provide sealed and energy-efficient ducts. • Provide proper ventilation; properly balanced HVAC systems can maintain positive pressurization indoors to reduce intrusion of moist air into the building envelope and interior zones and belowground contaminants and radon into the building. 1.0 Moisture Control and Mold 2.0 Asbestos 3.0 Lead 4.0 PCBs 5.0 Radon 6.0 Belowground Contaminants 7.0 Garage Air Pollutants 8.0 Pests 10.0 Building Products/Materials Emissions 11.0 Vented Combustion Appliances 12.0 Unvented Combustion Appliances 13.0 Ozone from Indoor Sources 17.0 HVAC Equipment 18.0 Mechanical Ventilation for Individual Dwelling Units 19.0 Mechanical Ventilation for Multiple Dwelling Units Using Central Exhaust 20.0 Natural (Not Fan-Powered) Ventilation 21.0 Local Exhaust Ventilation 22.0 Building Safety for Occupants 23.0 Protecting IAQ During Construction 24.0 Jobsite Safety