My local area experiences all different types of weather.
The summer brings temperatures in the high eighties with excessive humidity.
The winters are especially long and cold, with dangerous wind chill, lots of snow accumulation and temperatures in the negative digits. We expect blizzard conditions, school closings and driving bans. The fall and spring are unpredictable, with lots of rain, sleet, wind and even hail. Because of the weather extremes, we rely heavily on the heating and cooling system. I seem to switch from running the furnace straight to operating the air conditioner with very little break in-between. I am always excited when there’s mild enough weather to open the windows and welcome in some fresh air. Most of the time, it’s necessary to keep the house sealed up tight. Temperature control accounts for about 50% of the household energy expenses, and I’ve gone to great lengths to prevent waste. I’ve invested in new, ENERGY STAR rated windows and exterior doors and added insulation in the walls, ceilings and attics. I’ve installed ceiling fans and upgraded to a smart thermostat. Every year, I replace caulk and weather stripping. While my efforts help to keep my heating and cooling bills under control, they also eliminate natural ventilation. The house can feel stuffy, dry and dusty in the winter. There are problems with humidity, mold and mildew in the summer. I finally researched different types of indoor air quality accessories and chose a ventilation system. The ventilator works to bring in a steady supply of fresh air without energy waste. It helps to improve the comfort, cleanliness, smell and health of the living space.