How can improved indoor air quality be maintained in a tightly sealed building?

Improved indoor air quality in a tightly sealed building is best maintained through the use of mechanical ventilation systems. Tightly sealed buildings are designed to minimize air leakage, which enhances energy efficiency but can also lead to a buildup of indoor pollutants, moisture, and stale air if not managed properly.

Mechanical ventilation systems actively exchange indoor air with outdoor air, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh air while effectively removing contaminants. These systems can include exhaust fans, energy recovery ventilators (ERVs), or heat recovery ventilators (HRVs), which are designed to optimize airflow and control temperature and humidity. They help maintain indoor air quality by filtering incoming air and managing the balance of exhaust, thus improving overall occupant health and comfort.

This approach provides a more controlled and consistent means of ventilation compared to other methods that would not effectively manage air quality in a tightly sealed environment. While passive ventilation techniques and keeping windows open can introduce fresh air, they do not offer reliable control of airflow or ensure consistent air quality in every situation faced within a tightly sealed building. Additionally, claiming that there are no specific methods fails to recognize the essential role of engineered solutions like mechanical ventilation in indoor air quality management.