Indoor air quality is a critical component of a healthy home environment. Poor indoor air quality can lead to a variety of health problems, including respiratory issues, allergies, and asthma. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has developed the Indoor airPLUS program to help homeowners improve their indoor air quality. In this article, we will explore the benefits of the Indoor airPLUS program and the steps required to have a certified home.
What is Indoor airPLUS?
Indoor airPLUS is a program developed by the EPA to help builders and homeowners build and maintain homes that have improved indoor air quality. The program provides a set of guidelines for builders to follow, and it also offers a certification process for homes that meet the guidelines.
Benefits of Indoor airPLUS
The benefits of the Indoor airPLUS program are numerous. Some of the key benefits include:
- Improved Indoor Air Quality: Indoor airPLUS certified homes have improved indoor air quality, which can help to reduce health problems associated with poor air quality.
- Increased Energy Efficiency: Indoor airPLUS certified homes are designed to be more energy-efficient, which can result in lower energy bills for homeowners.
- Reduced Environmental Impact: Indoor airPLUS certified homes are designed to be more environmentally friendly, with features such as high-efficiency heating and cooling systems and the use of eco-friendly building materials.
Steps to Have a Certified Home
If you are interested in having a certified Indoor airPLUS home, there are several steps you will need to take. These steps include:
- To have a certified home, you will need to work with a builder who is familiar with the Indoor airPLUS guidelines.
- To have a certified home, your builder will need to meet the Indoor airPLUS guidelines. These guidelines cover areas such as moisture control, ventilation, and HVAC systems.
- Once your home is built, your builder will need to submit documentation to the EPA to verify that your home meets the Indoor airPLUS guidelines.
- If your home meets the guidelines, the EPA will provide certification that your home is an Indoor airPLUS certified home.
A Fillable Checklist from the EPA
Conclusion
The Indoor airPLUS program is an excellent way for homeowners to improve their indoor air quality and create a healthy home environment. By following the guidelines and working with a builder who is familiar with the program, you can create a home that is not only healthy but also environmentally friendly and energy-efficient.
