Frequently Asked Questions.

Q: Is it better to vent my crawl space to allow air to flow through it so it stays dry?

A: All of our lives we have heard we need to close crawl spaces in the winter and vent them in the summer. Unfortunately, this practice may cause more issues than it solves. The problem with modern crawl spaces is we use these areas as more than just an open void under our homes. Many homes incorporate mechanical systems such as HVAC, air ducts and plumbing in the crawl space. By venting a crawl space in the summertime, we allow hot, humid air to enter the space. As this humid air enters, it begins to condense on the cooler surfaces in the crawl space. These include water lines, air duct systems, floor joists, foundation walls and insulation. These cool, moist areas now become a breeding ground for many types of mold and wood-destroying fungi and insects that can cause foundation damage, wood and structural damage, and shortened life expectancy of HVAC systems and air duct systems. All this lessens the effectiveness of insulation, and releases allergens into the space. These allergens may eventually enter your home.

Q: I have mold in my crawl space; can I just clean it off to prevent further wood damage?

A: There are so many different types of mold and fungi that you cannot be absolutely sure what you have in your crawl space without testing the species. You should never come in contact with it without the proper protective equipment. Surface growth can be removed from the floor joists, but without proper treatment, the growth will just return. Mold spawns from any form of moisture, such as standing water, condensation, humidity, etc. So, in order to properly protect your crawl space from growth, you need to remove the sources of moisture. Then, you can properly remove the surface growth and treat the lumber to prevent recontamination. As with all crucial procedures, professional assistance is required.

Q: Sometimes I have a musty odor in my home, what could cause that?

A: There are numerous causes of musty odors in our homes. It could be lack of airflow while we are gone, unknown plumbing or water leaks, dirty crawl spaces, sources in the air duct system, etc. Your best course of action is to contact a professional to track down the source and remove it. With regard to source removal, it is always recommended to start small and work toward the larger possible sources.

Q: My energy bills seem really high, what can I do to improve the energy efficiency of my home?

A: Air Resolutions has computer software that actually creates an energy model of your home. This software will give you an actual annual cost to operate your home. Using this software, you can sit down with the consultant and actually simulate energy improvements to see what your return on investment will be. The software is not available to homeowners and the tests involved are fairly complicated, requiring a lot of training to properly operate. You will need a professional to assist you.

There is a nominal fee for the test, which takes anywhere from four to eight hours to complete. The consultant can also give you energy-saving tips during the visit to get you started. If you are considering any large energy upgrade investment, this test will let you see the outcome clearly, even before you start the project.

Q: My HVAC system seems to run constantly, why can’t I ever get my home to a comfortable temperature?

A: It would seem the obvious answer to this question is that there is a malfunction with your HVAC system. In fact, that very well may be the answer. However, many people forget what HVAC stands for: heating, ventilation and air conditioning. They focus on the most expensive part, the furnace or heat pump. Sometimes you have to look beyond the equipment and focus on other possible issues, such as the duct system. Many duct systems are improperly sized; meaning the correct amount of air cannot enter your home as it was originally designed. Ductwork is also infamous for falling out of place. Older duct systems can deteriorate beyond their functional limits. Duct insulation may be malfunctioning, causing the air to not maintain its conditioned temperature.

Walk around your home while the HVAC system is operating and place your hand next to the registers. If you notice the airflow is different in different rooms, then you should have a complete investigation of your duct system, including a duct blaster test. This will tell you how much duct leakage you have in unconditioned spaces such as crawl spaces and attics. You should also have a duct scope with a camera check the system for kinks and blockage. A simple repair to your duct system could possibly save your main equipment from an early demise!

Testimonial

Chris could not have been any better. Chris was responsive and had qualified people working under the tight quarters of his house. I am 75 years old and have been in construction all my life. I have never come across anyone as conscientious as Chris. Highly recommend Chris.
- Jim Barr