Replies

1. 
   jklingel | Jun 29, 2012 11:20pm | #1

   If I recall correctly, the code calls for 1 cfm/100 sf of living area, plus 7.5 cfm/person. That leaves you with 45 cfm. Exhaust the stinky rooms, fill the clean ones, but apparently don't get too close to the kitchen hood. See an HRV person for "too close". Why no insulation in MN? That is not necessarily a warm State.

2. GBA Editor
   Martin Holladay | Jun 30, 2012 06:20am | #2

   John,
   Kristina isn't installing any wall insulation because she has an older house with load-bearing multi-wythe brick walls. Such walls can be tricky to insulate on the interior because of possible moisture problems.

3. GBA Editor
   Martin Holladay | Jun 30, 2012 06:28am | #3

   Kristina,
   Minnesota requires homes to include a mechanical ventilation system:
   http://www.homeenergyresourcemn.org/how_your_house_works/section_index.aspx?cat_1=752&cat_2=13094&SelectCatID=13094&CatId=13094&ref=13094:HYHW_LN

   It's been a while since I have written any articles about the Minnesota ventilation code, and I'm not sure of current code requirements. In any case, you should consult a local home performance contractor or HVAC contractor to be sure that your planned ventilation system meets the Minnesota code.

   If the code references ASHRAE 62.2, then an HRV is one option but is not required. An exhaust-only ventilation system may satisfy the Minnesota code.

   Remember, an older home is usually leaky, so you may already have quite a bit of air exchange in your home.

   For more information on ventilation systems, see Designing a Good Ventilation System.

4. 
   tenNmw58np | Jun 30, 2012 07:58am | #4

   Thanks. I will check with our HVAC people here. I made a typo in the questions, our home is 3000 sf, not 300. But I will check our resources here about the HRV.

5. 
   wjrobinson | Jun 30, 2012 10:26am | #5

   Kristina, contact a professional, best IMO.