EP197 Asbestos, Air Sealing, and ERVs: Navigating Home Renovations with Science (December 2024)

EP197 Asbestos, Air Sealing, and ERVs: Navigating Home Renovations with Science (December 2024)

Author: Bill Spohn December 20, 2024 Duration: 34:49

In this engaging Building HVAC Science Podcast episode, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser welcome Dr. Allison Bailes, a renowned building science expert, to discuss his ongoing home remodeling journey. Allison shares his firsthand experiences of retrofitting a 1960s ranch home in Georgia, uncovering challenges, lessons, and unexpected discoveries along the way.

Allison dives deep into the realities of balancing technical expertise with practical decision-making, from asbestos abatement to air sealing, insulation, and innovative systems like Zehnder ERVs. He highlights the importance of communication with contractors, dynamic environmental factors like radon and air leakage, and the challenges of maintaining performance in existing homes. Throughout the episode, listeners gain invaluable insights into the intersection of building science, project management, and homeowner expectations.

Whether you're an HVAC professional, a homeowner, or simply curious about building science, this episode provides a wealth of knowledge wrapped in relatable anecdotes and humor.

 

Learn more about his business at www.energyVanguard.com and subscribe to his emails.

Here is his LinkedIn profile:https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonabailes/

We sell his book at TruTech: https://trutechtools.com/hardcover-a-house-needs-to-breathe-or-does-it.html

 

This episode was recorded in December 2024.


Ever wonder why some buildings feel just right-healthy, comfortable, and surprisingly efficient-while others seem to work against you? That’s the territory explored in Building HVAC Science, a podcast hosted by seasoned experts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn. This isn't just about thermostats and ductwork; it's a deep, practical dive into the physics and principles that make indoor environments work. You’ll hear conversations that dissect real-world diagnostics, question common practices, and explain the often-overlooked science behind temperature, airflow, and moisture. The discussions naturally progress from foundational concepts to the latest tools and technologies used for measurement and verification, always linking theory to tangible results in building performance. By focusing on the interplay between proper HVAC design, installation, and human well-being, this podcast provides actionable knowledge for professionals and curious minds alike. Tune in for a clear-eyed look at how understanding the built environment leads to spaces that are better for both people and the planet.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Building HVAC Science
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