Heating, Air Conditioning and...(the often forgotten, but important)...Ventilation

"They don't build 'em like they used to" is an understatement when it comes to modern day buildings. Double or triple paned windows, insulation, house-wrap and other design features with the intended purpose of energy efficiency have made today's buildings almost air tight.

When a professional HVAC Specialist (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) calculates a building's needs --- his job is not only to provide efficient and sufficient heating and cooling for comfort, but to provide a source of fresh air to address carbon dioxide, volatile organic compounds (chemical vapors from paint, carpeting, cleaning products, wood finishes and other sources) and humidity levels.

With the newer building practices, harmful levels of pollutants can be present without sufficient ventilation--a source of fresh air to enter a building and exhaust to be emitted from the building--and if the harmful levels go unaddressed, issues with health and well being could result. The EPA has stated that indoor air pollution is a major concern for public health and well being. See http://www.indoorpollution.com for additional information.

Like many other factors associated with the construction of buildings, there are basic minimum standards for sufficient breathing air that have been established for the safety and health of the people who will be living, working, shopping or otherwise occupying these buildings.

Since most modern buildings are constructed with more insulation and fewer means for heat/cold (and air) to enter and exit the building, the natural means of ventilation -- such as opening a window or skylight -- are not available choices. The professional HVAC Specialist will recommend several mechanical options for providing fresh air to the occupants.

In Cassville, we are taking special care to ensure that newly constructed and renovated public buildings (schools, restaurants, retailers, etc.) are meeting the minimum health standards and are providing sufficient fresh air to our families, fellow citizens, friends and visitors who frequent them.

We are now requiring that the builders of structures that are designed for public use in Cassville are providing at least the minimum amount of breathable fresh air instead of recycling the same air throughout their buildings that could quickly become unhealthy air from mold, bacteria or other pollutants brought in to the building as hundreds enter and leave.

Homeowners are encouraged to be equally aware of the need to introduce proper ventilation and exhaust to their modern efficiency built homes...especially in our humid, mold friendly climate. Use professional HVAC technicians and select the right equipment for efficiency, economy and health.

Jim Bushart

Building Inspector