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BEAMA launches updated Ventilation White Paper

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©Sema Srinouljan

BEAMA has launched its updated 2022 Ventilation White Paper, ahead of the new Building Regulations on Ventilation coming into effect later this year, and the government’s wider Covid-19 and net-zero strategy

The paper sets out a 4-step policy pathway for the future to deliver effective ventilation and improved indoor air quality inside UK homes in order to help protect health and wellbeing.

The White Paper makes it clear that we must adopt a ‘Ventilate when you Insulate’ approach, to avoid creating a major public health burden by sealing pollutants and viruses in our homes.

This will ensure that energy efficiency and ventilation improvements go hand-in-hand, and poor-quality installations of ventilation systems and poor compliance are rooted out.

The 4-step strategy includes:

  1. Set higher ventilation standards for new builds to protect health and wellbeing.
  2. Ensure energy efficiency retrofits are accompanied by ventilation measures to protect health and wellbeing.
  3. Drive ventilation compliance standards.
  4. Treat poor indoor air quality and poor ventilation as a public health emergency and, in addition to public education campaigns on the risks and solutions, make sure it is enshrined in all relevant policy areas.

The update comes amidst a seminal moment for the built environment in the UK, with the country navigating its way out of the pandemic, the introduction of new Building Regulations for energy conservation and ventilation, and the government driving its long-term net-zero strategy.

The push towards energy efficiency has led to increasing airtightness, however, this has not been matched by ventilation improvements, resulting in the increased risk of poor indoor air quality compromising the health and wellbeing of occupants.

The paper states that whilst the UK government has shown good intentions, such as its commitment in the Heat and Buildings Strategy to take decisive, ‘no-regrets’ action now on improving ventilation and mitigating the risks of poor indoor air quality, a concrete plan must be delivered in practice.

‘Ventilate when you Insulate’ approach must be adopted’

Colin Timmins, director of the BEAMA Ventilation Group commented: “Our message to policymakers is simple: a ‘Ventilate when you Insulate’ approach must be adopted, and poor-quality installations and compliance must be tackled, to ensure indoor air quality and health are safeguarded.

“By adopting and implementing the 4 policy solutions set out in this White Paper, the Government can achieve this and deliver healthy homes that are fit for the future.”

‘Deliver effective ventilation and healthy indoor air quality’

Keith Ritchie, chair of the BEAMA Ventilation Group stated: “While progress on ventilation and indoor air quality has been made over the last 4 years, much more still needs to be done to integrate, regulate and improve ventilation standards.

“This 2022 version of our Ventilation White Paper represents a timely update that urges Government to act without delay and devise a clear plan to deliver effective ventilation and healthy indoor air quality.”

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How To Keep Your Mind and Body Healthy This Year

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Real talk: staying healthy is pretty much all anyone can talk about right now. Plus, it’s even more top of mind than usual as we enter a new year. And after a rough couple years, people are starting to realize that health doesn’t just apply to our bodies and immune systems — it applies to mental health as well.

Tending to both your body and mind doesn’t have to be a huge overhaul; there are some easy ways to make sure everything is working at max capacity without changing your entire lifestyle. Here are some simple ways to take a holistic approach to keeping yourself in good health all year long:

Get started with a meditation practice

Meditation: it doesn’t have to be scary! Or “woo-woo”! Or overly spiritual! It can be as simple as sitting still with your eyes closed for five minutes while practicing deep breathing. Even the bare minimum could have a serious impact on your wellbeing. In fact, according to the National Institutes of Health, meditation may have myriad benefits, such as reducing symptoms of anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, and IBS, as well as helping to lower blood pressure. Some research also suggests that meditation may physically change the brain to help improve health problems.

If you want to get into meditation but have no idea where to start, you’re not alone — here’s a handy guide that breaks it all down.

Get in the habit of taking immune-boosting vitamins

Before we dive into this, it’s important to note that you should always chat with your doctor before starting to take any vitamins or supplements. They can give you a better idea of the dosage you should take and if there might be any health complications you should keep in mind.

Once you get the green light from your GP, vitamins that help keep your immune system in shape can be a game changer for your overall health. Vitamins C, E, and D, along with zinc are good supplements to start with.

Keep your surroundings clean

There’s no denying that when your space is a mess, you feel like a mess. And this doesn’t just apply to clutter — it’s about cleanliness overall. When your surroundings feel safe and free from germs that could make you sick, you can start to feel some peace of mind. Start by making it a daily (or, let’s be realistic, weekly) practice to wipe down surfaces in your home with Clorox® Disinfecting Wipes, which kill 99.9% of viruses and bacteria when used as directed. Think about it like laying the groundwork for all the other activities you do in your home.

Swap in physical activity for transportation

Okay, okay, so it’s not a great look to show up to the office drenched in sweat after riding your bike to work. However, there are a lot of instances when it’s easy to put the car keys or Metrocard down and opt for physical activity instead. It may take a little more planning, but it’s worth it to get a little extra movement in. Walking to your destination also gives you a good excuse to listen to those podcasts you’ve had in your queue or finally have that catch-up phone call with a family member or friend you haven’t had time for. Worst comes to worst, you can always catch a ride share if you under-estimated the distance (or your stamina).

Set boundaries with your screens

Believe it or not, screen time has an effect on both your mental and physical health. (Shout out to anyone who lives with constant “tech neck” or lower back issues from sitting at a computer all day.) And it’s pretty evident by now how social media can negatively affect our mental health. So while it may not be realistic to cut out screens and social feeds entirely, changing your attitude toward them and setting healthy boundaries can make a world of difference.

If you’re someone who works in front of a computer all day, block off time on your calendar for some movement. This could be as simple as taking a moment to walk around the house or do some stretching exercises, or you could take a quick jog around the neighborhood — whatever fits in your schedule and lifestyle. When it comes to scrolling through social feeds for hours on end, set time limits for yourself (literally, set an alarm), and then move on to a different activity like reading a book, working on a craft, doing some exercise, or, um, sleeping. Better yet, instead of going down a social media wormhole, call a friend and talk about something real. It’s all about being intentional with your time.

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HVP Magazine – NAADUK launches new ventilation guidance document NAAD21

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NEWS

NAADUK LAUNCHES NEW VENTILATION GUIDANCE DOCUMENT NAAD21

NAADUK (National Association of Air Duct Specialists) has launched its new comprehensive guidance document NAAD21, which it says sets the standard for the ventilation hygiene sector.

Jonathan Brennan, Chairman of NAADUK, said: “I would like to express my thanks not only to the members of NAADUK who have put this document together but also to the other associations, institutions and universities that have supplied time, knowledge, and expertise to support and enhance this guidance.

“It is NAADUK’s hope that this will not only help ductwork technicians but also insurers, procurement departments, specifiers, and trainers in delivering safety, compliance, and assuring competence within our industry. Following the tragedy at Grenfell it is important to this association that this advice is made freely available to all.”

NAAD21 is a collaboration between experts in our industry and other associations, putting together a completely easy to read reference document for both Grease and Air (Indoor Air Quality).

It is embedded throughout the GT0F 04 SCQF Level 5 (NVQ2): Ventilation Hygiene Certificate and forms the core of the qualification, covering the practises and procedures of the BSEHV11, the National Occupational Standard for cleaning industrial and commercial ventilation systems. This is a qualification that until now has not been available within the industry. This 134 page document is to be given freely, at no charge to all interested parties.

NAADUK says its aim is to raise the bar of competency and awareness in ventilation hygiene for the many. NAAD21 enables technicians to demonstrate their professional competency and offers building owners a guidance document to use as reference.

Inspection, cleaning, and maintenance of ductwork has become an important part of building facility requirements to meet the growing need for better indoor air quality in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and building energy efficiencies. Insurance companies are aware of the essential requirement to undertake cleaning of ventilation systems to prevent the build-up of grease and dust in ducts, which will help prevent fires.

Along with the regulatory law EC852, the HSE requirements, CDM regulations, and BS standards state that all building owners should be aware of their responsibility to the occupants of the building and ensure that a competent accredited company conducts regular inspection, cleaning, and maintenance of ductwork.

For your free copy of NAAD21, please send an email with your details to [email protected].

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Pandemic fuelling dry eye condition: How to avoid it?

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Chronic dry eye is a “potentially serious” condition, warn Chronic dry eye is a “potentially serious” condition

Chronic dry eye is a “potentially serious” condition, warn Chronic dry eye is a “potentially serious” condition

Unusual lifestyle and prolonged working hours in the Work From Home (WFH) format necessitated by the pandemic has given rise to chronic dry eyes among a large number of people in the country, ophthalmologists said. 
Chronic dry eye is a “potentially serious” condition that can result in eye discomfort and vision issues, they said.
“Dry eye problem has become rampant during the Covid-19 pandemic due to changes in lifestyle. Increase in screen time, disruption in nutritious eating habits, and irregular sleep patterns are causing a rise in dry eye cases,” said Dr. Nitin Deshpande, Director, Shree Ramkrishna Netralaya.
He said staying indoors or at home has contributed to the rise in cases of dry eyes as well as aggravating the symptoms. 
“Indoor air quality causes dry eyes. Air conditioning increases airflow over the eyes. This combined with work in front of screens,- causes increased evaporation of tears leading to dryness of eyes,” he said.
According to eye specialists, improper diet due to changes in cooking and dining routine has led to the lack of essential fatty acids, Vitamin A, Vitamin D in the body which are important to maintaining eye health.
Besides, improper sleep is contributing to dry eyes by reducing eye fluid quantity. 
“With the increased use of electronic devices, the screen time has gone up tremendously. Increased screen time is the major factor for dry eyes. The normal blink rate is 15 blinks per minute. Screen time has reduced the blink rate to 5 to 7 blinks per minute,” he said.
“Fewer blinks and incomplete blinks reduce moisture on the surface of the eyes. Blue light from the screen as per evidence does not damage eyes but it can affect sleep patterns. Improper sleep may cause dryness of the eyes, he added.
Also, the improper fitting of the Covid-19 protocol mask contributes to the dryness of the eyes.
“Breathing with a mask causes air to flow upwards and results in evaporation of tears. Taping the mask over the nose can prevent upward airflow and help in addressing dry eyes problem,” Dr Deshpande added.

20:20:20 pattern

Ophthalmologists have recommended people to follow the 20:20:20 pattern. 
People are advised to take breaks from the screen every 20 minute and look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
One needs to blink frequently, wear a mask fitting properly to prevent upward flow of air. 
The smartphone or laptop screen should be off 2-3 hours before bedtime.
“Use lubricating eye drops and see a doctor if there is any trouble,” said Dr Prerana Shah, Consulting Opthalmologist & Vitreoretinal Surgeon.
“Regular eye tests can prevent problems at a stage where they can be treated with the best results. Therefore, the timely detection is a vital part of eye care,” she said.

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Forget bottled water! Get your drinking water the eco-friendly way

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You do your best to get your 91 ounces of water in a day, and good for you. But did you know that if you’re filling your glass from a tap, you may be getting more than you bargained for? Purify your water with AlcaPure.

According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG)’s comprehensive Tap Water Database, which compiles results from water utility testing across the U.S., the water in some communities can contain potentially dangerous chemicals. Even water that is deemed “clean” can pick up contaminants along the way as it runs through pipes to get into your home. During an EWG investigation, it was found that about 85% of the population was drinking tap water that contained over 300 contaminants and carcinogens that could potentially lead to cancer.

Scientists are continuously working to find solutions to purifying our drinking water, but many of those inventions are still unattainable or impractical for the household. You could opt to drink bottled water, but not only is that expensive, but it also adds to the already almost insurmountable plastic waste we have accumulated. This easy-to-use and eco-friendly AlcaPure is the economical answer to getting water that’s great tasting and contaminant-free.

RKIN Zero Installation Purifier – Countertop Reverse Osmosis Water Filter

Using reverse-osmosis to filter out 99% of the impurities in your tap water, AlcaPure boasts a 4-stage advanced filtration system, blocking both larger particles such as sand and rust, and harmful chemical residues such as chloroform and pesticides, while also remineralizing the water with calcium and magnesium for better taste.

It’s portable and fits on your countertop. It’s easy to install with no plumbing required and features a zero-waste design that collects the wastewater in the bottom of the tank, so it can be used for other purposes (like watering your plants). Elegant and efficient, and highly rated on Amazon, this RKIN AlcaPure Countertop Water Filter is available in either space black or silver/white, and can be yours now for more than half off the regular price. For only $424.99, you can enjoy a cool glass of purified water and support your health!

Prices subject to change.

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Timing is everything | Close To Home

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February marks the midpoint of winter, and with spring just over the horizon, many gardeners are dreaming of sunny days and dirty fingernails. For those looking to get a jump on the growing season, starting seeds indoors offers the most gratifying — and productive — option.

Before digging in, however, it’s imperative to know exactly when to start, which means finding the last average frost date in your area. Consulting with your county’s cooperative extension office should arm you with hyper-local guidance. Absent that, there are some good online calculators that will get you close.

I like the one provided by The National Gardening Bureau (garden.org/apps/frost-dates/). To use it, plug in your zip code and take note of the date in the field where the “10%” column intersects with the “Last 36-Degree” row. That represents the date when on average, there is only a 10 percent chance the temperature will drop below 36 degrees, meaning outdoor transplantation is a safe gamble.

Armed with the scientific knowledge that water freezes at 32 degrees, some will lament my conservative recommendation. They may even point to years past when they’ve successfully transplanted tender seedlings outdoors weeks earlier. But as someone who has been burned by a late frost, I’m here to tell you that patience is key. Remember, those dates are averages, and temperature extremes can fluctuate wildly from year to year, past luck notwithstanding.

Those gardening in horticultural zones higher than 9 can ignore this advice, as the southernmost parts of the continental U.S., as well as Puerto Rico and Hawaii, are considered frost-free (there, it’s the heat of spring and summer that should be avoided.)

The rest of us will need to do some math. Seed packets typically advise that seeds be started a set number of weeks before the last frost. After calculating your start date, which will be unique for each seed type, it’s important to respect it. Start too soon, and plants likely will grow weak and struggle to thrive; start too late, and your harvest will be delayed, sometimes even inhibited from reaching its full potential.

While you’re waiting, obtain and prepare appropriate containers, which include multi-cell plug trays, individual biodegradable pots and recycled plastic yogurt containers. Each should have a drainage hole poked in its bottom. If planning to reuse last year’s vessels, be sure to disinfect them with a solution made by combining 9 parts water with 1 part chlorine bleach and rinse.

Fill each container or compartment with a sterile, moist, soilless seed-starting mix and, depending on seed size, sow one to four seeds per cell.

Place containers on a low-rimmed tray to which you’ve added no more than an inch of water, and monitor the soil’s moisture as it absorbs water through drainage holes. Replenish water as needed to keep the soil from drying out or becoming soggy. Bottom watering in this manner avoids accidentally washing away seeds, and reduces the occurrence of fungal diseases.

Cover the cells tightly with plastic wrap or a humidity dome, and place them in a warm spot out of direct sunlight. Heating mats placed under the trays will hasten germination.

Be on the lookout for “damping off,” a fungal disease that thrives in cool, damp, dark locations. If you spot a moldy, white layer on the soil’s surface, scrape it off with a spoon and allow the soil to dry completely between waterings. If there is a reoccurrence, dispose of the soil and seeds, disinfect the containers and start over with clean gear.

One way to help avoid damping off, as well as mold and algae growth, is to direct the breeze of a small fan to the soil. Later, that fan will train tender seedlings to withstand wind — and they’ll grow sturdier in response.

When seedlings poke up, remove the dome or wrap, and place containers by a sunny window, or under fluorescent or LED grow lamps for 14 hours daily. Expensive lamp models aren’t necessary; ordinary shop lights will do. Keep the light source no more than 2-4 inches above the plants, adjusting its height as the seedlings grow.

If multiple seedlings sprout in each container, clip the weakest at the soil line using manicure scissors, retaining only one sturdy plant per cell. If allowed to remain, the roots of multiple seedlings will become entangled and threaten the viability of the young plants.

A week before the last frost date, begin to “harden off” plants by placing them outdoors for incrementally longer periods each day. Place them in a shady spot protected from wind, leave them there for one hour, then bring them back indoors. Repeat the next day, but leave them out for two hours, and continue adding an hour of outdoor exposure each day for a week, at which time your plants will be acclimated and ready to be planted in the garden.

Damiano is an award-winning gardening writer, master gardener and educator. She writes The Weekly Dirt newsletter and may be contacted at [email protected].

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24/7 COVID-safer home? Possible with Panasonic nanoe™ X Generator Mark 2

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Philstar.com

February 16, 2022 | 3:47pm

MANILA, Philippines — What if there’s a hero that can provide you and your family with clean and healthy indoor air 24/7? 

This is the ground-breaking declaration of Panasonic Air-Conditioning Philippines during its February 11 Air Conditioner Convention, as it unveiled to press and dealers the big news about nanoe X Generator Mark 2, a new level of improved innovation of the nanoe™ technology. 

In a virtual conference, Panasonic revealed research results on nanoe™, showing its capability to inhibit four types of novel coronavirus variants – Alpha, Beta, Gamma,and Delta in a 45-liter test space (with size of 350mm×350mm×400mm), in as fast as 2 hours by over 99.7%. 

This breakthrough news in health and wellness will in effect, provide hope for Filipinos to make their homes and business spaces safer and more sanitized for kids, elders and working individuals.

The next big thing in the new normal

From home to business: A safer environment indoors is a must for Filipinos

Photo Rlease

In 2021, Panasonic conducted a test with a third-party organization and confirmed the effectiveness on each COVID-19 variant, Alpha, Beta, Gamma and Delta.

Given this, nanoe™ can be expected to have an even stronger inhibitory effect on novel coronavirus variants. The company again conducted a verification in view of the status of the spread of viral infection.

What were the research results? Here’s the gist:

Panasonic Corporation has verified the inhibitory effect of nanoe™ technology with benefits of hydroxyl radicals on the four novel coronavirus variants, in collaboration with the Japan Textile Products Quality and Technology Center (QTEC).

In the same event, Panasonic announced news about the nanoe X Generator Mark 2 which produces 9.6 trillion hydroxyl radicals per second—a level up in eliminating odors, inhibiting pollutants and moisturizing skin and hair.

That means this new technology is two times stronger in performance versus the current nanoeTM X (4.8 trillion hydroxyl radicals per second). This also means that the nanoe X Generator Mark 2 may inhibit the novel coronavirus faster and stronger. 

Panasonic revealed that nanoe X  Generator Mark 2 is present in these products: 

Related to this, Panasonic Manufacturing Philippines Corporation shared that it has been exporting nanoe™ X-equipped Window-type Inverter Air Conditioners in Hong Kong and Taiwan. It is also in Hong Kong (Shokukanken, Inc.) where an inhibition test featuring the Window-type Air Conditioner model showed that nanoe™ X has an inhibitory effect against adhered influenza virus (H1N1) over 99.9% in two hours. 

A better life, a better world, always

A better life awaits Filipino families who choose to make the smart choice with Panasonic

Photo Release

For the past 20 years since 1997, Panasonic has been conducting research on this technology, and has verified its effectiveness in a variety of areas, including inhibiting pathogenic microorganism (bacteria, fungi and viruses) and allergens, breaking down PM 2.5 components that have adverse effects on the human body *2.

It has also committed to pursue the potential of nanoe™ technology and verify its various effects to continuously contribute to society.

Alongside the research, Panasonic remains proactive in playing a key role in ensuring safer and healthier spaces of health and educational institutions by providing them with much-needed Panasonic air solutions such as Air Conditioners, Portable nanoe™ X Generators, and Air Purifiers all equipped with nanoe™ and nanoe™ X technology—aligned with its thrust of providing Filipinos with “A Better Life, A Better World.”

 

For more information about nanoe™, nanoe™ X technology and nanoe X  Generator Mark 2 please visit www.panasonic.com/ph/nanoe. You may also explore its virtual showroom here.

To know more about Panasonic air solution products equipped with nanoe™, nanoe™ X technology and nanoe X  Generator Mark 2, please visit www.panasonic.com/ph/air-solutions.

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SF Hunters Point Concrete Plant Cited Amid Dust Complaints – NBC Bay Area

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A stream of cement trucks regularly rumbles by Gayle Hart’s townhouse on Gilman Avenue in Hunters Point, headed to and from construction sites throughout San Francisco.

“Look how the dirt is just flying up here,” the San Francisco Muni driver said from her dust-covered balcony, which overlooks one of the routes Bauman Landscape and Construction Inc. trucks take to deliver 40,000 tons of concrete annually.

“I don’t even want to open the window, because the dust flies right in,” said Hart’s neighbor, Violet Moyer, who runs indoor air cleaners around the clock, hoping to help her three children breathe easier. “I used to wake up in the morning and I didn’t feel congested — and now I do.’’

Hart and Moyer recently joined other residents in speaking to NBC Bay Area’s Investigative Unit about their health concerns from the dust that coats cars, obscures windows and collects in the street. They blame activities on a site across the street from their homes, Bauman’s 1.5-acre Redi-Mix plant.

They say the city has not provided much relief from the dust that has gotten worse since the plant opened across from their homes a year and a half ago – calling into question whether the city is living up to its vaunted environmental justice ideals.

“This is not a dumping ground,” said Kamillah Ealom, an environmental activist with the local Greenaction group and a resident of the nearby Alice Griffith public housing development. “So right here, in my own backyard, I’m fighting for environmental justice – and I’m from San Francisco, the leader in environmental justice.”

“The residents here are suffering, without question,’’ said Ray Tompkins, a retired chemistry teacher who serves on the African American Community Health Equity Council in the Bayview.

Tompkins visited the site recently with a hand-held pollution detection device. It analyzes concentrations of microscopic PM 2.5 dust particles – which measure about 1/30 of the thickness of a human hair. Studies show PM 2.5 particles – a recognized byproduct of concrete operations —  are linked to respiratory problems ranging from asthma to lung cancer.

“Anything over 3,000 is poor,” Tompkins said. His measurements in the area, he says, regularly approach 6,000 – twice the level considered a “poor” air quality level based on the concentration of PM 2.5 particles. “This is on a consistent basis,” he said of the 6,000 concentration level. “I’ve measured up to 28,000 with trucks running by.”

Tompkins says he found elevated PM 2.5 levels near Bret Harte Elementary School, where children play outside during recess, as well as out front of the nearby Alice Griffith public housing development.

Plant-owner Mike Bauman told us his family-run operation is not to blame, saying other businesses on that site generate dust.

Bauman said he has been running a Redi-Mix operation on the Gilman Avenue for about a year and half. The operation involves crushing up and recycling enough old concrete to create 40,000 tons of fresh concrete annually, he said.

“We’re really conscious of not causing problems out there,” Bauman said, stressing that his crews spray down their trucks, wheels and the street area to limit dust.

While Bauman acknowledged his plant was indeed cited by the Bay Area Air Quality Mangaement District for not having a local permit, he said there was no fine for air quality violations and he has a permit issued by the state Air Resources Board. He said the citation he received from local authorities was the product of a  jurisdictional squabble between licensing authorities.

Bay Area Air Quality Management officials did not respond to requests for comment about the citation the agency issued against the plant. The inspector handling the violation notice told residents recently that the process to resolve the permit violation matter could be a lengthy one.

Frustrated residents had counted on Board of Supervisors President Shamann Walton, who represents the neighborhood, to help. His office provided a statement saying it was Walton who forwarded the residents’ complaints to the air quality management district in the first place, adding:  “Our office is 100% in alignment with our city’s environmental justice practices.’’

But Hart says that hasn’t spelled any relief. In her mind, the problem has only gotten worse.  She and other neighbors said they noticed even more dust when more trucks were rerouted through their neighborhood after Hunters Point Expressway was closed last year to provide temporary parking for people living in RVs.

“I can’t breathe around here,” Hart said. “I don’t even want to go outside at all because of the dirt. And when it’s windy — it’s like a sandstorm — you could just see it blowing around. This is not right at all.” 

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MDHHS has $5M for home repairs to help with weatherization services – Macomb Daily

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Need a new roof?

How about insulation for the attic?

Or are you waiting to do both?

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has $5 million available from the U.S. Department of Energy Weatherization Assistance Program that will help Macomb Community Action pay for home repairs that are sometimes needed before weatherization services can be provided.

“When a family is already struggling to make ends meet it can be an almost insurmountable challenge when a furnace goes out or a roof needs fixing,” MCA Executive Director Ernest Cawvey said.

MCA has always provided help for low-income families in need of weatherization improvements, which can save the homeowner an average of 30% on their bill, typically about $283 per year. What is done to the home is determined by a home energy audit that MCA conducts for anyone who might need help.

Weatherization services and support may include:

  • Wall insulation
  • Attic insulation and ventilation
  • Floor/foundation insulation
  • Air leakage reduction
  • Furnace repair or replacement
  • Other energy saving measures
  • MCA can also help with utility and electric bills.

However, many homes in a state of disrepair cannot take advantage of weatherization funds because the repairs or services installed could be compromised.

“We can’t put insulation in the attic if the home needs a new roof,” Cawvey said.

The additional funding will enable the agency to make repairs on everything from weather stripping windows and other small repairs to replacing a furnace or repairing a roof.

It will also help to reduce the waiting list for weatherization services, Cawvey added.

“Weatherizing homes is a great way to reduce energy costs for Michiganders and prevent low-income families from having to worry about affording their bills and staying warm and safe,” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said in a news release announcing the available funding. “Many families have suffered financial hardships due to the pandemic and have put off maintenance that needs to be addressed before their homes can be weatherized. I urge these families to take advantage of these new services that will lower their costs and keep them warm. We will continue finding ways to put Michiganders first and help them have the resources they need to thrive.”

Cawvey also encourages families to inquire about what’s available for them. The criteria for services change and one never knows what they might be eligible for.

“We’re here to help people and that begins with an assessment,” Cawvey said.

He added a lot of people who might qualify for this program may also be eligible for other programs aimed at helping families in the county who are struggling.

The MDHHS Bureau of Community Action and Economic Opportunity administers the U.S. Department of Energy Weatherization Assistance Program, which benefits approximately 1,300 low-income families annually in Michigan. Community Action Agencies and non-profit organizations provide weatherization services at the local level.

“MDHHS wants to help as many residents as possible weatherize their homes to save money and energy,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “High energy costs can cause families to fall behind on their utility bills or be forced to pay their energy bills with money that could otherwise be spent on nutritious food or other needs. No one should be ineligible for cost-saving weatherization assistance due to costly needed repairs.”

In a weatherization job, trained professionals known as energy auditors use computerized software and advanced diagnostic equipment such as blower doors and infrared cameras to create a comprehensive energy analysis of the home. This analysis determines the most cost-effective measures to install in each home. The energy auditor creates a customized work order so trained contractors and crew members can install the identified energy-efficient and health and safety measures.

These measures include items such as insulation, blower-door-guided air sealing of key leakage junctures, and installations such as lighting and water saving measures.

Health and safety issues such as elevated levels of carbon monoxide, moisture problems, mold, ventilation needs, and heating systems safety and efficiency are also addressed. There is growing evidence the program provides benefits beyond energy savings. Improved indoor air quality and appropriate ventilation strategies lead to healthier living conditions in weatherized homes, which often lead to reduced asthma triggers and fewer doctor visits.

Those interested in having an assessment can call 586-469-6999 or visit Macomb Community Action’s Weatherization Program online at mca.macombgov.org/MCA-CommunityServices-WeatherizationAssistanceProgram.

 

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Do gas stoves contribute to indoor air pollution?

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Scientists say emissions from burning natural gas inside homes can lead to poor air quality and damage the atmosphere.

BOULDER, Colo. — Cooking with gas may be the preferred method for some people, but scientists say it could increase your family’s health risk.

Research shows natural gas stoves and ovens emit harmful chemicals that can pollute the air inside our homes.  

Those appliances burn natural gas, which is another name for methane. When methane is burned, it creates byproducts called nitrogen oxides (NOx). 

Scientific studies have shown that children who are exposed to gas stove emissions can have as much as a 42% higher chance of developing asthma.  

“This research was really scary for my wife and I,” Boulder resident Michael Thomas said.  

Thomas is a science writer and founder of Carbon Switch, an energy research company. He said he was well aware of the climate impacts that methane and its burned byproducts can have on the atmosphere, but was skeptical about how much air quality impacts they might have. 

“In fact we just bought a new house last year, and we were so excited that our home was going to have a gas stove,” Thomas said. “I mean, we thought that was a premium product that we were getting.”

So he set up an in-home experiment to see for himself just how much pollution his gas stove was producing. He placed a couple of air quality sensors in the house and watched the numbers spike while he cooked his meals.  

He said the nitrogen dioxide went up to 291 parts per billion, which is nearly three times greater than the standard set by the Environmental Protection Agency.

“When I saw that, it was startling,” Thomas said. “Now we had the data right from our kitchen and we really became concerned.” 

That concern grew even larger when Thomas learned the EPA does not have a standard regulating indoor air pollution. The one-hour EPA standard for nitrogen dioxide of 100 parts per billion (PPB) is only for outdoor pollution.

“It’s not comparing apples to apples when you’re comparing methane from a stove to methane from a tailpipe, for example,” said Dr. Anthony Gerber, a pulmonologist with National Jewish Health. “Even though you say it’s the nitrogen oxide causing the problem, it’s still a different chemical mix.” 

Gerber said he acknowledges the research showing higher risk to sensitive groups when exposed to gas stove emissions, but he also said there are many other credible studies that show low risk or inconclusive results.

He does agree that gas stoves create short-term spikes of nitrogen oxides, which always carries some health risk.

“Is that the same risk as breathing in exhaust fumes? Probably not,” he said. “So I think we have to be very careful about taking something that’s dangerous in one context and moving it into another context and deciding that it has the same risk.” 

For the Thomas family, the evidence is convincing enough, especially now that they have a new set of lungs to look after. Their baby boy Theo was born in 2022. 

“When you have a kid, everything sort of changes in your life,” Thomas said. “And you start being so cautious of all the risk around you.” 

Solutions

“In an ideal world, we wouldn’t have gas stoves, but I don’t think I would hit the panic button if I had one in my house,” Gerber said. 

Gerber said the health impacts of gas stove emissions would not compel him to remove a gas stove from his house, but the climate impacts of the methane gas and NOx emissions would be a more compelling argument.

Thomas also believes his gas stove is harming the climate by releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, and would love to eliminate two issues by getting rid of it.

“But that’s not an easy or inexpensive undertaking,” Thomas said. “We just can’t do that right now, but there are other things we can do to keep the family safe.”

He said they plan to use HEPA and carbon air filters to clean the air in their house, and make sure there is good ventilation in the kitchen while using their stovetop gas burner.

He also said they will use a portable electric stovetop when possible.

Gerber also made these same suggestions. 

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