Martens Minute

Why should I consider an air exchanger or ventilator?

May 1, 2024

Fresh air exchangers and ventilators are all-in-one systems that work along with your furnace and air conditioner to trap dust, bacteria, and other contaminants. They exchange the air trapped inside your home with fresh outdoor air, keeping your home air cleaner and healthier even when your windows are closed.

These systems have become more common in an era when homes are built to conserve energy. We can save money on heating our homes in the winter and cooling them in the summer when air can’t “leak” into the house or out of it. But extra insulation and airtight windows also mean air can become stale and potentially unhealthy.

You might want to consider an air exchanger or ventilator if:

  • Your house was built to maximize energy efficiency and minimize the amount of air that escapes from outside to inside, and vice versa.

  • You rarely open your windows.

  • You or someone in your household has allergies, chemical sensitivities or respiratory issues.

  • You want to control the level of humidity in your house.

  • You have pets (pet dander can contribute to air-quality issues)