Moisture in buildings must be properly managed for our health and well being. Too little moisture creates discomfort while too much can result in mold and associated environmental illnesses. We concentrate on how much moisture must managed in a home due to climatic, construction, occupancy and ventilation variations. We discuss different methods for dehumidifying and humidifying air, and methods for determining humidity level of indoor air. The moisture and energy benefits of “smart” ventilation over constant flow ventilation (ASHRAE 62.2-2016 table) are discussed. Finally, we examine annual energy performance of a humidity managed home.

Lessons Learned

1. Understand human-generated and human activity addition of moisture to a home
2. Learn basics of infiltration and ventilation transport of moisture into and out of a home as it relates to LEED V4 BD+C Homes EQ Enhanced Ventilation 
3. Discuss climatic trends based on geographic location and time-of-year as it relates to LEED V4 BD+C Homes EQ Enhanced Ventilation 
4. Learn simple method for calculation moisture balance in a home and overall energy impact of moisture in home performance as it relates to LEED V4 BD+C Homes EQ Balancing of Heating and Cooling Distribution Systems