Several studies have shown that the air inside our homes and buildings is 5 - 7 times dirtier than the air outside. The Building Science industry has been tasked with improving indoor air quality. However, more training is needed, as this industry section is misunderstood and often neglected. This session will help attendees learn about some key IAQ issues, how to measure them, and how to effectively mitigate them to improve indoor air quality for building occupants.
Continuing Education Units (CEUS) submitted 1 hour in*
• Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI)
• Building Performance Institute (BPI) NonWholeHouse
• American Institute of Architects - AIA (HSW)
• Certified Green Professional (NARI & CGP)
• Certified GreenHome Professional (CGHP) Pillar(s): Energy, Materials,
• American Institute of Building Designers (AIBD)
• State Architect / Builder License may be applicable
• Building Science Institute (BSI) Verifier
• Certified Passive House Consultant (CPHC)
• Society of American Registered Architects (SARA)
Lessons Learned
1. **Understand** that poor indoor air quality (IAQ) can significantly impact health, leading to respiratory issues and other long-term health effects for building occupants.
2. **Analyze** the safety implications of inadequate ventilation, as over-concentrated pollutants can create hazardous environments in homes and buildings.
3. **Introduce** effective mitigation strategies, such as regular monitoring and maintenance of HVAC systems, to promote better welfare and comfort for all occupants.
4. **Articulate** the importance of training within the Building Science industry to ensure that professionals are equipped to address and improve indoor air quality issues effectively.
Need CEUS?
Take the Quiz here:
https://greenhomeinstitute.thinkific.com/courses/managing-indoor-air-quality-the-v-in-hvac
Speaker: Brynn Cooksey Sr - Air Doctor
Brynn Cooksey Sr., affectionately known as the "Air Doctor," is a Detroit native and the Owner of Air Doctors Heating and Cooling, LLC. Brynn earned that nickname for his renowned engineering solutions in the HVACR and Electrical industries. After spending 15 years in the Utility Gas and Power industry, Brynn took over his family's heating and cooling business and rebranded it "Air Doctors" based on his industry-adopted nickname. The Air Doctors team has repeatedly reduced customers' utility bills by 50% or more with Brynn's award-winning Building Efficiency solutions.
Brynn studied HVACR technology at Henry Ford College in Dearborn, Michigan, where he later returned to become a Professor and taught the subjects he had learned about. To this day, Brynn continues to train individuals in the industry that he loves and has trained over 10,000 HVAC Technicians, Electricians, and Energy Auditors. Brynn also is a training consultant for mechanical contractors, HVACR supply distributors, and HVACR training organizations. Brynn is a regular technical contributor for the RSES Journal, BPA Journal, and the RSES Webinar series. Brynn holds several degrees and certifications in the HVACR and Building Science industries.
In 2024, Brynn was named one of ESCO Institute's Top 25 Most Influential HVACR Instructors. The honor was given to instructors who significantly contributed to the HVACR industry.
Additionally, Brynn was named to the Air Conditioning Heating and Refrigeration News (ACHR News) Top 40 Under 40 Professionals list due to his contributions to the HVACR industry.
What did people have to say?
Based on the survey results, participants gained valuable insights into indoor air quality (IAQ), particularly concerning the health impacts of pollutants like PM2.5 and carbon monoxide, the importance of proper ventilation, and the role of air quality monitoring tools such as Air Advice. Many attendees learned about the crucial size differences between harmful particulates and human hair, with PM2.5 identified as particularly dangerous. They also discovered essential practices for managing air quality, including the significance of humidity levels and the impact of household items like new clothing on indoor pollutants. However, several questions remain, such as the effectiveness of certain air filtration systems, the specific functioning of HRVs and ERVs, and best practices for sealing duct systems and maintaining air quality monitors. Overall, while the presentation provided a wealth of information, there is still a desire for deeper understanding in certain areas related to IAQ management.