Case Studies

Challenge: The challenge was to provide fresh air throughout an air-tight, earthen-built structure toimprove breathing and comfort for occupants. The equipment used had to reliably withstand a variety of weather conditions, including extreme cold, high humidity, and salt-laden air.

This home’s basement suffered from the typical issues associated with combining a tight building envelope with high summer humidity and
a cool basement. The resulting high dewpoint produced an unhealthy, damp and moldy environment. Typical solutions include increased dehumidification, but then over-cooling and excess energy use can become an undesirable added extra.

The front office areas and locker rooms of this facility had IAQ issues and lacked fresh air make-
up. The main gym area trapped unpleasant odors outgassed from the many thick neoprene workout mats. Providing additional heating, ventilation, and cooling (via HVAC) would have been quite expensive on a first-cost basis due to the purchase and installation of HVAC equipment.