Complying with

Residential Ventilation
Requirements
In the 1995 National Building Code

Issued by the Canada Mortgage & Housing Corporation

MAY 2007
 ADDITIONAL COPIES
For additional copies, please contact:
CMHC Publications Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
700 Montreal Road
Ottawa, Ontario
K1A 0P7

LEGAL DOCUMENT
Complying with Residential Ventilation Requirements in the 1995 National Building Code is not a substitute for the
National Building Code. While care has been taken to ensure accuracy in this manual and its illustrations, Canada
Mortgage and Housing Corporation does not assume responsibility for errors or oversights resulting from the informa-
tion contained herein.
The administration of building code requirements is a provincial responsibility. Local ventilation requirements may
differ from those of the National Building Code. Therefore, compliance with the National Building Code does not neces-
sarily constitute compliance with provincial requirements. The legal documents which must be referred to in matters
related to technical interpretation and code enforcement are the appropriate Provincial Building Codes.

COPYRIGHT
Distribution of this guide in its copyright form is restricted. Reproduction for commercial or advertising purposes shall
not be made without permission from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.
International Standard Book Number 1–895389–02-X
© 1996 Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation

ii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The project team which developed this manual was comprised of:
Project management and manual preparation and technical content:
Bert Phillips..................................................UNIES Ltd., Consulting Engineers, Winnipeg
Gary Proskiw ............................................................. Proskiw Engineering Ltd., Winnipeg
Design and Layout ......................................................... Doowah Design Inc., Winnipeg
Illustrations and Graphics ...................................David Morrow Illustrations, Winnipeg

Project team members gratefully acknowledge the invaluable contributions of those

who reviewed and commented on the manual manuscript. Through their contributions
of time and effort, this manual has benefited from their extensive technical back-
grounds and experience:
Terry Marshall ..............................................Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
Darrel Smith ..................................................Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
Duncan Hill ....................................................Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
Everett Dunham ...........................................Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
John Haysom ........................................................Institute for Research in Construction,
National Research Council, Canada
Robin Sinha ..................................................................................................................NRCan
Ross Monsour .........................................................Canadian Home Builders’ Association
Gordon Arnott .............. Heating, Refrigerating and Airconditioning Institute of Canada
Dara Bowser ..............................................................................................Bowser Technical
John Hockman ...........................................................................................Appin Associates

iii
Table of Contents
BUILDER SUMMARY ............................................................................... A1
Code Overview........................................................................................................................A2
Design Requirements............................................................................................................A2
HRVs and ERVs .......................................................................................................................A3
Ventilation System Options ..................................................................................................A3
Getting it Right the First Time ........................................................................................... A12
Builder Responsibilities ..................................................................................................... A13
Energy Codes and Residential Ventilation ........................................................................A13

INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................... B1
Purpose of the Manual ..........................................................................................................B2
The Need for Ventilation ........................................................................................................B2
Elements of an Effective Indoor Air Quality Program ........................................................B2
Cost of Ventilating ..................................................................................................................B3

CODE REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................... C1

What Does the Code Cover? .................................................................................................C2
Limitations..............................................................................................................................C2
Fundamental Elements of a Part 9 Ventilation System ....................................................C2
Natural Ventilation .................................................................................................................C3
House Depressurization .......................................................................................................C3
The Code................................................................................................................................. C4

SYSTEM COMPONENTS .......................................................................... D1

Fans ........................................................................................................................................ D2
Exterior Hoods....................................................................................................................... D4
Grilles and Diffusers ..............................................................................................................D6
Dampers................................................................................................................................. D7
Make-up Air Fans................................................................................................................... D7
Outdoor Air Tempering Devices ........................................................................................... D9
Ventilation Systems Controls ............................................................................................ D10
Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs).....................................................................................D14
Ductwork.............................................................................................................................. D15

SYSTEM OPTIONS .................................................................................. E1

System Options ......................................................................................................................E2

v
PREFACE
All dwellings require fresh air to deal with moisture, odours and indoor pollutants.
The 2005 National Building Code (NBC) requires that new dwellings have mechanical
ventilation systems capable of providing this fresh air.
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation prepared this manual to help builders un-
derstand and meet the NBC ventilation requirements. Performance, reliability or safety
testing has not been done on all systems which meet the NBC. As such, their inclusion
in this manual does not constitute an endorsement. However, based on the opinions of
industry experts, they should result in better ventilation in housing.
The people who contributed directly to the preparation of this manual are identified
in the Acknowledgements at the beginning of this manual. Their contributions of time
and energy were considerable. But, with your help, this manual can be improved.
If you have suggestions for clarification and/or improvements which would make
future versions of the manual more useful to you, please send them to:
Policy and Research Division
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
700 Montreal Road
Ottawa, Ontario
K1A 0P7
Phone (613) 748-2658 Fax (613) 748-2402

LIMITATIONS
An improperly installed ventilation system may jeopardize occupant health and safety
or cause damage to the structure. Proper installation of residential ventilation systems
requires an understanding of:
w fuel-fired appliance codes,

w proper installation and operating procedures for combustion appliances, electrical

wiring, electrical codes, controls wiring, ductwork,
w the principals and purposes of ventilation,

w operation of ventilation equipment,

w air flow measurement and balancing, etc.

This manual is intended for use by persons with this prerequisite knowledge.

vii
BUILDER SUMMARY

A
Builder Summary
The purpose of this manual is to help builders and residential HVAC installers understand the re-
quirements of Section 9.32 Ventilation in the NBC, and to offer ventilation system options that
comply with these requirements. The Builder Summary provides an overview of ventilation system
requirements and describes some ventilation systems that comply with the prescriptive require-
ments in the NBC. Later sections of this manual provide more detailed discussions and descriptions
of NBC requirements.
The ventilation system options presented in this manual cover most, but not all house designs and
occupant needs. Where these systems are not suitable, detailed ventilation system designs that
comply with either the prescriptive requirements in Section 9.32 or the more detailed “objective
based” design requirements in CAN/CSA-F326 ”Residential Mechanical Ventilation Systems” are
required. It is the builder’s responsibility to ensure that ventilation systems comply with the NBC.
The Builder Summary and the balance of this manual do not replace the specific requirements of the
NBC. In the event of a conflict of interpretation between this document and the NBC, the interpreta-
tion of jurisdiction having authority will prevail.

A1
 BUILDER SUMMARY

Code Overview
The 2005 National Building Code requires most new dwelling units to have a mechani-
cal ventilation system installed. Suites in buildings that fall under Part 6 of the NBC
must be designed using ASHRAE Standard 62 “Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air
Quality” unless they have self-contained ventilation systems, in which case the builder
has the option of complying with the requirements of NBC Section 9.32 Ventilation.
Ventilation systems for all NBC Part 9 dwellings must be installed in compliance with
NBC Section 9.32 Ventilation or with CAN\CSA-F326 “Residential Mechanical Ventilation
Systems”.
A knowledgeable ventilation system installer can select and install one of the Part 9
ventilation system options described in this manual, or may custom design and install
a ventilation system, provided that it complies with the requirements of Section 9.32
or with the requirements of CAN\CSA-F326.

HRVs and ERVs

“Heat Recovery Ventilator” and “HRV” are generic terms used in the residential con-
struction industry for factory assembled air-to-air heat exchangers complete with ven-
tilation fans. The terms “Energy Recovery Ventilator” and “ERV” are often used because
some people feel they better describe the function of these devices in applications
which also include cooling and/or moisture transfer. In this manual, the term HRV/ERV
is used when referring to these types of products.`

Design Elements Required for

All Part 9 Ventilation Systems
All mechanical ventilation systems designed in accordance with Part 9 of the NBC
must incorporate:
w a principal ventilation system which is capable of continuously ventilating at an
airflow rate determined from the number of bedrooms in the dwelling unit. This
system must include an exhaust fan and a method of introducing, tempering and
distributing replacement outdoor air (exhaust only options introduce air by infiltra-
tion and assume acceptable levels of tempering occur as infiltration air mixes with
conditioned house air)
w exhaust from all bathrooms and kitchens. This can be provided in whole or in part
by the exhaust fans in the principal ventilation system or by supplemental exhaust
fans
w protection against depressurization and air pollutants. Measures must be imple-
mented to reduce occupant exposure to soil gas, combustion products and
contaminated air from attached garages.
Where the authority having jurisdiction deems that soil gas entry presents a
significant risk to occupants, builders are required to

A2
 BUILDER SUMMARY

w install active soil gas mitigation systems, or

w install make-up air systems to offset house depressurization caused by operation of

any exhaust device other than the principal ventilation fan operating at the Normal
Operating Exhaust Capacity (e.g., exhaust fans, HRVs and ERVs that have exhaust
only defrost, clothes dryers, central vacs, rangehoods and other cooktop and oven
exhaust devices)
Make up air systems are required for exhaust devices if fuel-fired space- and/or
water-heating devices of other than direct-vented and mechanically-vented types
are installed
Carbon monoxide alarms are required at specific locations in all dwellings that
contain fuel-burning appliances and/or have attached garages
w fans which comply with specific airflow and sone (noise) ratings

NBC System Options

This manual presents descriptions and illustrations of four basic ventilation system
configurations that comply with the prescriptive requirements of the NBC. Some pos-
sible variations on these basic system configurations are included in these descrip-
tions and illustrations. The systems and variations illustrated herein cover the six
ventilation system configurations described in the Appendix to Part 9 of the National
Building Code of Canada. In addition, an exhaust only system with a purpose-built air
circulation system which is not illustrated in the appendix to the National Building
Code is described.
This section of the manual (i.e., the Builder Summary) provides a brief description of
the systems, not detailed descriptions. Installers, building inspectors and other per-
sons requiring or desiring more detailed descriptions will find them in later sections of
this manual.
The systems described and illustrated in this manual do not cover the full range of
code compliant possibilities. Builders desiring greater flexibility can develop custom
designed ventilation systems, provided they satisfy the Part 9 requirements.
One system configuration that may be Code compliant was excluded because the
Industry Committee that guided development of this manual felt that it was unlikely
to provide acceptable ventilation, thus would not be considered “good practice” and
should not be promoted. While builders are free to install any ventilation systems
that comply with the requirements of the NBC, they should be aware that installing
systems that are unlikely to meet homeowner expectations will result in consumer
complaints.

A3

Exhaust-Only Ventilation,
Distribution by a Forced Air Heating System
See NBC Ventilation System Options A and E
APPLICATION
Dwelling using these system configurations require:
w forced air heating
w no solid-fuel-burning appliances
w any fireplaces to be of the direct-vented type
w all fuel-fired space- and/or water-heating appliances
to be of direct-vented or power-vented types
w make-up air for exhaust devices or an active soil
gas mitigation system if soil gas is deemed to be a
problem
SYSTEM CHARACTERISTICS
Simplest and lowest installed cost for most applications
Does not easily include energy recovery.
Generally not operated very much by occupants
May cause cool drafts that affect occupant comfort dur-
ing cold weather
VENTILATION AIR SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
The principal ventilation (exhaust) fan exhausts from
the kitchen and/or bathrooms and/or other location(s).
Replacement outdoor air is drawn in through the build-
ing envelope. The furnace circulation fan operates to mix
and distribute outdoor air.
SUPPLEMENTAL EXHAUST
Supplemental exhaust is required from kitchens un-
less the principal ventilation system exhaust fan only
exhausts air from the kitchen OR a two speed principal
ventilation system exhaust fan is used.
Supplemental exhaust is required for any bathrooms not
connected to the principal ventilation system exhaust
fan.
A4
BUILDER SUMMARY
CONTROLS
A centrally located manual switch labelled “Ventila-
tion Fan” operates principal exhaust fan at the Normal
Operating Exhaust Capacity. The furnace circulation fan
operates continuously or on a timer control whenever
principal exhaust fan is operated.
A switch in each room served by a supplemental ex-
haust fan operates the fan.
If kitchen exhaust is provided by the principal exhaust
fan, the control in the kitchen must be labelled “Kitchen
Exhaust”.
Automatic fan controls (e.g., dehumidistats) can also be
used.
VARIATIONS
ADD AN OUTDOOR-AIR SUPPLY DUCT COUPLED TO A
FORCED AIR HEATING SYSTEM
NBC Options A and E upgrade system performance
by adding an outdoor air intake duct connected to the
furnace return duct. This will provide more uniform
distribution of outdoor air and reduced likelihood of
cold drafts causing occupant discomfort.
NBC VENTILATION SYSTEM OPTION A
NBC Option A uses a single speed PV fan and requires
use of some supplemental exhaust fans
NBC VENTILATION SYSTEM OPTION E
NBC Option E uses a PV fan with a high speed/low
speed control which can meet both principal exhaust
flow requirements and supplemental exhaust require-
ments
ADD AN OUTDOOR-AIR SUPPLY FAN
Another variation is to install an auxiliary supply fan in
the outdoor air supply duct described above to further
improve control over the supply and distribution of
ventilation air.
 BUILDER SUMMARY

HRV/ERV Used in Conjunction

with a Forced Air Heating System
See NBC Ventilation System Options B and F

APPLICATION
These systems are suitable for all dwelling units with
forced air heating.
SYSTEM CHARACTERISTICS
HRV/ERV pre-heats outdoor air, reducing heating costs
and improving occupant comfort
HRV/ERV includes supply and exhaust fans and some
controls
HRV/ERV filters and core require routine maintenance
HRV/ERVs designed to operate with balanced airflows
do not require additional makeup air when operating on
high speed to meet kitchen and bathroom exhaust.
May cost more to install than systems without heat
recovery but the cost to heat ventilation air will be
reduced.
VENTILATION AIR SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
HRV/ERV draws exhaust from the kitchen and/or
bathrooms and/or other central location and supplies
outdoor air to the forced air heating system return air
plenum. The forced air system circulation fan operates
whenever the HRV/ERV to mixed and distribute outdoor
throughout the house.
CONTROLS
A centrally located manual switch labelled “Ventilation
Fan” operates the HRV/ERV at the Normal Operating
Exhaust Capacity. The furnace circulation fan operates
continuously or on a timer control whenever HRV/ERV is
operated.
A switch in each room served by a supplemental ex-
haust fan operates the fan.
If kitchen exhaust is provided by the HRV/ERV, the con-
trol in the kitchen must be labelled “Kitchen Exhaust”.
Automatic fan controls (e.g., dehumidistats) can also be
used.
VARIATIONS
NBC VENTILATION SYSTEM OPTION B
NBC Option B uses a single speed HRV/ERV and re-
quires use of some supplemental exhaust fans
NBC VENTILATION SYSTEM OPTION F
NBC Option F uses an HRV/ERV with a high speed/low
speed control which can meet both principal exhaust
flow requirements and supplemental exhaust require-
ments

SUPPLEMENTAL EXHAUST
Supplemental exhaust is required from kitchens unless
the HRVV/ERV only exhausts air from the kitchen OR a
two HRV/ERV is used.
Supplemental exhaust is required for any bathrooms not
connected to the HRV/ERV.

A5

Fully Ducted HRV/ERV
See NBC Ventilation System Option D
APPLICATION
These systems are suitable for all dwelling units.
SYSTEM CHARACTERISTICS
HRV/ERV pre-heats outdoor air, reducing heating costs
and improving occupant comfort
HRV/ERV includes supply and exhaust fans and some
controls
HRV/ERV filters and core require routine maintenance
HRV/ERVs designed to operate with balanced airflows
do not require additional makeup air when operating on
high speed to meet kitchen and bathroom exhaust.
May cost more to install than systems without heat
recovery but the cost to heat ventilation air will be
reduced.
An HRV/ERV with a high speed/low speed control can
meet both principal exhaust flow requirements and
supplemental exhaust requirements for the dwelling
without requiring makeup air.
VENTILATION AIR SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
An HRV/ERV draws exhaust air from the kitchen,
bathrooms and/or other central location and supplies
outdoor air through a small diameter duct system to
each bedroom, to any storey without a bedroom and, if
there is no storey without a bedroom, to the principal
living area.
A6
BUILDER SUMMARY
SUPPLEMENTAL EXHAUST
Supplemental exhaust is required from kitchens unless
the HRVV/ERV only exhausts air from the kitchen OR a
two HRV/ERV is used.
Supplemental exhaust is required for any bathrooms not
connected to the HRV/ERV.
CONTROLS
A centrally located manual switch labelled “Ventilation
Fan” operates the HRV/ERV at the Normal Operating
Exhaust Capacity.
A switch in each room served by a supplemental ex-
haust fan operates the fan.
If kitchen exhaust is provided by the HRV/ERV, the con-
trol in the kitchen must be labelled “Kitchen Exhaust”.
Automatic fan controls (e.g., dehumidistats) can also be
used.
VARIATION
NBC VENTILATION SYSTEM OPTION C
– DEDICATED SUPPLY AND EXHAUST SYSTEMS WITHOUT
HEAT RECOVERY
NBC Option C is similar to NBC Option D, except NBC
Option C uses a heater (electric or hydronic) to condi-
tion supply air during cold weather rather the heat
exchange core of an HRV/ERV and the fans are not
part of a factory assembled package, as is the case
with HRVs.
 BUILDER SUMMARY
Exhaust-Only with a
Purpose Built Air Circulation System
Not illustrated in the NBC
APPLICATION
These systems may find application in dwelling units
that do not a have forced air heating system to distrib-
ute ventilation air. Dwelling using these system configu-
rations require:
w no solid-fuel-burning appliances
w any fireplaces to be of the direct-vented type
w all fuel-fired space- and/or water-heating appliances
to be of direct-vented or power-vented types
w make-up air for exhaust devices or an active soil
gas mitigation system if soil gas is deemed to be a
problem
SYSTEM CHARACTERISTICS
Does not easily include energy recovery.
Generally not operated very much by occupants
May cause cool drafts that affect occupant comfort dur-
ing cold weather
Suitable for applications without forced air heating
where simplicity of equipment and maintenance are
important
VENTILATION AIR SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
The principal ventilation (exhaust) fan exhausts from
the kitchen and/or bathrooms and/or other location(s).
Outdoor air to replace exhaust air is drawn in through
the building envelope.
A purpose built air circulation fan and duct system
circulates house air to each bedroom and to other areas
in the house, thus distributing ventilation air.
The fan in this air circulation system must have a rated
capacity of at least five times the actual Normal Operat-
ing Exhaust Capacity of the Principal Ventilation Fan.
SUPPLEMENTAL EXHAUST
Supplemental exhaust is required from kitchens un-
less the principal ventilation system exhaust fan only
exhausts air from the kitchen OR a two speed principal
ventilation system exhaust fan is used.
Supplemental exhaust is required for any bathrooms not
connected to the principal ventilation system exhaust
fan.
CONTROLS
A centrally located manual switch labelled “Ventila-
tion Fan” operates principal exhaust fan at the Normal
Operating Exhaust Capacity. The circulation fan of the
purpose built air circulation system operates continu-
ously or on a timer control whenever principal exhaust
fan is operated.
A switch in each room served by a supplemental ex-
haust fan operates the fan.
If kitchen exhaust is provided by the principal exhaust
fan, the control in the kitchen must be labelled “Kitchen
Exhaust”.
Automatic fan controls (e.g., dehumidistats) can also be
used.
VARIATIONS
This system is similar to NBC Ventilation System Options
A and E, but rather than using the fan and duct system
from a forced air furnace to distribute ventilation air, a
purpose built air circulation system is used.
Option G ventilation systems can be upgraded with:
w a two speed PV exhaust fan which meets some or all
supplemental exhaust requirements
w an outdoor air intake connected to the intake side of
the air circulation system to ensure more uniform
distribution of outdoor air and reduced likelihood of
cold drafts
w a supply fan in the outdoor air supply duct described
above to further improve control over the distribution
of ventilation air
A7
 BUILDER SUMMARY

Ventilation System Decision Tree

The Ventilation System TREE #1: What part of code applies
Decision Tree is intended to
help the user decide which
part of the NBC to apply and, Natural ventilation is required.
if appropriate, which of the Electric NO Mechanical ventilation
ventilation system options Power? is not required
to choose. One or more of
the system options offered
YES
will meet the needs of most
dwellings and owners. Build-
ers desiring greater flexibility Heating season mechanical
ventilation is mandatory.
can develop custom de-
Provide either natural or mechanical
signed ventilation systems, ventilation for non-heating season.
provided they satisfy the
Part 9 requirements.

Ventilation system
serves only one NO Design to Part 6 of NBC
dwelling unit?

YES

Five or fewer
bedrooms? NO Design using CSA F326

YES

Choose from simple Detailed design using NBC

design options?
NO 9.32 or CSA F326

YES

GO TO
TREE #2

A8
 BUILDER SUMMARY

TREE #2: Which simple options can be used

1. Fuel-fired
space and/or water heating
appliances other than direct-vent,
mechanically vented or solid fuel-fired
types are installed? NO TO BOTH
2. Soil gas deemed to be a problem and an
active soil gas mitigation
system not installed?

YES TO EITHER

1. Fuel-fired
Make-up air required for all exhausts space- and/or water-heating
except Principal Ventilation System at appliances installed?
Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity
2. Attached storage garage?

YES TO EITHER NO TO BOTH

use fully ducted Install CO alarms in or near bedrooms

HRV/ERV system
NO and in rooms with solid fuel fired
combustion appliances

Forced air
system with circulation fan
capacity at least 5 times actual Normal
Operating Exhaust Capacity
is installed?

YES

Use either HRV/ERV option
1. All fuel-fired
space and/or water
heating appliances are direct-vent
NO or solid fuel mechanically vented types.
2. Soil gas is not deemed
to be a problem.

YES

Any of the four simple options may

be used.

A9
 BUILDER SUMMARY

Getting It Right the First Time

Good planning and clear communications will mean fewer problems in any construc-
tion project, including residential ventilation systems. To minimize communication
problems:
w Use installers who have taken Ventilation Installer Training such as that offered by
the Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI).
w Prepare detailed ventilation system design drawings, specs and schematics.

w Give copies to all the affected trades for their review to ensure:

• any holes required in concrete foundations can be cast in place,

• the gas meter, oil fill pipes, combustion appliance vents, dryer exhaust, garages, walkways, decks,
steps, etc. will not interfere with the planned location of air intake or exhaust hoods, windows, etc.,
• ductwork can be routed through stud and joist spaces,
• control locations and types are clearly specified,
• plumbing and electrical services are provided where needed.
w Make sure responsibility for each aspect of the ventilation system installation has
been assigned and each trade is aware of its responsibilities.
w Advise all affected trades immediately of any changes to the system design.

w Closely inspect work before it is closed in. Verify that work has been done correctly
and control wiring and ductwork are in place.
w Inspect and test completed systems to verify operation and ensure components
meet NBC requirements.
w Follow up with trades to prevent the same problems on future jobs.

Builder Responsibilities
Builders are responsible for ensuring ventilation system performance and confor-
mance to codes and standards. Thus builders need a good general understanding of
residential ventilation systems and equipment even though they rely on knowledge-
able designers and trades people to provide detailed design knowledge.
Training for residential ventilation system design and installation is available through
some colleges, agencies and manufacturers. The Heating, Refrigerating and Air Condi-
tioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) (www.hrai.ca telephone 800-267-2231) has national
trades training and certification programs in place for residential heating, cooling and
ventilation system designers and installers.
Equally important is the builder’s obligation to inform the homeowner how to operate
and maintain the ventilation system. The builder should provide the homeowner with
ventilation equipment literature, schematics and information on its operation (e.g.,
the appropriate sections from this manual) and the name of the ventilation system
installer.

A10
INTRODUCTION

B
Introduction
The introduction discusses the need for ventilation, the elements of an indoor air quality strategy
and the cost of operating or not operating a residential mechanical ventilation system.

B1
 INTRODUCTION

The Need for Ventilation

All homes require fresh air to deal with moisture, carbon dioxide generated by the
occupants, common household smells and pollutants from synthetic materials and
finishes, household cleaners and personal hygiene products. Houses have become
more airtight to improve thermal comfort and energy efficiency. Leaky construction
and open windows are not reliable methods of providing ventilation. Failure to effec-
tively control moisture and air pollutants will adversely affect occupant health and the
building envelope. For this reason, the NBC requires mechanical ventilation systems in
all new housing to deal with these pollutants.

Achieving Good Indoor Air Quality

Ventilation is one element in an effective indoor air quality (IAQ) strategy. Other ele-
ments include:
IAQ Strategy w source removal (e.g., store chemicals outside the living space)
Checklist w substitution (e.g., selection of natural fabrics and low emitting materials)
❏ source removal
w source containment (e.g., store household chemicals in sealed containers in an
❏ substitution
airtight cabinet connected directly to an exhaust system)
❏ source containment
❏ source control w source control (e.g., sub slab depressurization to control soil gas entry), and

❏ local exhaust w local exhaust (e.g., bathroom fans and range hoods).
❏ general ventilation
All of these factors need to be considered for effective indoor air quality management.
Extraordinary measures may be required in dwellings with chemically sensitive oc-
cupants.

Cost of Ventilating
Energy is required to supply, condition (i.e., heat, cool, humidify and filter) and
distribute outdoor air, regardless of whether the air enters by fan or air leakage. A well
designed and controlled mechanical ventilation system will minimize the amount
of outdoor air needed to provide good indoor air quality, and thus minimize the cost
conditioning ventilation air.
On the other hand, there are costs associated with not properly ventilating houses.
Poor indoor air quality can affect occupant comfort and health. Failure to properly con-
trol moisture levels during cold weather can lead to condensation on and in windows,
walls and attics and related damage to the building .
The ventilation strategy and type of equipment selected to provide ventilation will
affect both the cost to install and the cost to operate the ventilation system. Incorpo-
rating heat recovery may increase ventilation system first costs but can substantially
reduce the operating cost and occupant discomfort, so the occupants are much more
likely to use the ventilation system as intended. Distributing ventilation air using a
furnace fan will generally require considerably more fan energy than only using the
ventilation system fan and dedicated ductwork for distribution. Selecting energy ef-
ficient exhaust, supply and distribution fans will reduce energy costs.

B2
INTRODUCTION

The tables and examples below provide comparative cost data for conditioning and distributing ventilation air in vari-
ous climates, using various strategies. The data are based on a continuous ventilation rate of 30 L/s. This is within the
Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity of houses with three to five bedrooms. Total cost to continuously ventilate can be
determined by adding the cost to condition air from Table A to the cost to distribute ventilation air from Table B. Heat
recovery of 70% is assumed, which is in mid range for HRV effectiveness.

TABLE A - APPROXIMATE ENERGY COST TO HEAT 30 L/S OF VENTILATION AIR $/YEAR

Electricity $/kWh $ 0.04 $ 0.05 $ 0.06 $ 0.08 $ 0.10
Energy Type Gas $/cu.m $ 0.37 $ 0.47 $ 0.56 $ 0.74 $ 0.93
and Cost
Oil $/l $ 0.42 $ 0.53 $ 0.63 $ 0.84 $ 1.05
Heat Cost of Energy to Heat 30 L/s of Ventilation Air
Heating DDC* Recovery? $/Year
No $ 101.26 $ 126.58 $ 151.89 $202.52 $ 253.15
Vancouver 2930
Yes $ 30.38 $ 37.97 $ 45.57 $ 60.76 $ 75.95
No $ 140.31 $ 175.39 $ 210.47 $280.63 $350.78
Toronto 4060
Yes $ 42.09 $ 52.62 $ 63.14 $ 84.19 $ 105.24
No $ 176.60 $220.75 $ 264.90 $ 353.20 $ 441.50
Calgary 5110
Yes $ 52.98 $ 66.23 $ 79.47 $ 105.96 $ 132.45
No $ 199.76 $ 249.70 $299.64 $399.51 $499.39
Winnipeg 5780
Yes $ 59.93 $ 74.91 $ 89.89 $ 119.85 $ 149.82
No $ 235.35 $ 294.19 $ 353.03 $ 470.71 $ 588.38
Whitehorse 6810
Yes $ 70.61 $ 88.26 $ 105.91 $ 141.21 $ 176.52
No $ 285.47 $356.83 $428.20 $ 570.93 $ 713.66
Yellowknife 8260
Yes $ 85.64 $ 107.05 $ 128.46 $ 171.28 $ 214.10
* - Heating DDC is a measure of the average annual heating season size

TABLE B - APPROXIMATE FAN ENERGY COST TO SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTE VENTILATION AIR $/YEAR
$/kWh $ 0.06 $ 0.08 $ 0.10 $ 0.12 $ 0.15 $ 0.20
Distribution Cost of Electricity Used to Distribute Ventilation Air
Strategy $/Year
Cont PSC $ 232.56 $ 310.08 $ 387.60 $465.12 $ 581.40 $ 775.20
Cycled PSC $ 97.56 $ 130.08 $ 162.60 $ 195.12 $ 243.90 $ 325.20
Cont ECM $ 97.56 $ 130.08 $ 162.60 $ 195.12 $ 243.90 $ 325.20
Cycled ECM $ 63.81 $ 85.08 $106.35 $ 127.62 $ 159.53 $ 212.70
Fully ducted $ 52.56 $ 70.08 $ 87.60 $ 105.12 $ 131.40 $ 175.20
HRV

Cont – Continuous furnace fan operation. Principal ventilation fan operates continuously
Cycled – Furnace fan cycles 1/3 time on, 2/3 off. Principal ventilation fan operates continuously
PSC – Permanent Split Capacitor furnace fan motor
ECM – Electronically commutated (i.e., energy efficient) furnace fan motor

B3

EXAMPLE 1 – A HOUSE IN TORONTO
FROM TABLE A
the cost to heat 30 L/s of ventilation air
for a house in Toronto with gas at $0.37/
cu.m. is estimated at
$140.31/year without heat recovery
OR
$42.09 with heat recovery.
EXAMPLE 2 – A HOUSE IN YELLOWKNIFE
FROM TABLE A
the cost to heat 30 L/s of ventilation
air for a house in Yellowknife with oil at
$1.05/liter is estimated at
$713.66/year without heat recovery
OR
$214.10 with heat recovery.
In either of the above examples, all the electricity used by the furnace fan is converted
to heat which offsets space heating. At the energy prices used in this case, the energy
cost offset for space heating would be about one half the amount spent to operate the
furnace fan.
B4
INTRODUCTION
FROM TABLE B
the cost of electricity to distribute ven-
tilation air throughout the house using
electricity at $0.08/kWh would be about
$310.08/year using a continuously
operating PSC furnace fan (Cont PSC FF)
OR
$130.08/year using a furnace fan
cycler (Cycled PSC FF) or selecting a
furnace with a continuously operating
ECM furnace fan (Cont ECM FF)
FROM TABLE B
the cost of electricity to distribute ven-
tilation air throughout the house using
electricity at $0.15/kWh would be about
$159.53/year using an ECM furnace fan
operated by a fan cycler (Cycled ECM FF)
OR
about $131.40/year using a fully
ducted HRV
INTRODUCTION

C
Code Requirements
This section of the manual presents an overview of the residential ventilation requirements of the
2005 NBC.

C1
 What Does the Code Cover?
Part 9 of the NBC, Housing and Small Buildings Section 32 Ventilation, states:
w all Part 9 residential occupancies require provisions for either natural or mechanical
ventilation for the non-heating-season
w all Part 9 dwelling units with electrical power are required to have mechanical
ventilation for the heating-season
w self contained ventilation systems serving only one dwelling unit can be designed
in accordance with either the requirements in Section 9.32 of the NBC or “good
practice” such as that described in CAN/CSA-F326 “Residential Mechanical
Ventilation Systems”
w ventilation systems for residential suites in Part 6 buildings (i.e., gross floor areas
greater than 600 m2) with self-contained ventilation systems may be designed
following either ASHRAE Standard 62 “Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality”
or Section 9.32 of the NBC.
Section 9.32 addresses ventilation requirements, exhaust requirements, protection
against depressurization, duct sizing, outdoor air distribution, fan ratings, heat and
energy recovery ventilators, outdoor intake and exhaust hoods and system installation.

Limitations
Mechanical ventilation systems which serve two or more dwelling units or suites must
be designed in compliance with Part 6 of the NBC (i.e., ASHRAE Standard 62 “Ventilation
for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality”).
Ventilation systems for Part 9 dwelling units with more than five bedrooms must
comply with “good practice” such as that described in CAN/CSA F326.
The requirements in Section 9.32 are not intended to address the ventilation needs of
spaces or activities with strong airborne contaminant sources.
Meeting the requirements of Section 9.32 does not guarantee acceptable air quality,
especially for individuals with acute chemical sensitivities or if occupants smoke.

C2
 CODE REQUIREMENTS

Fundamental Elements of a Mechanical

Ventilation System Meeting the Part 9
Prescriptive Requirements
Mechanical ventilation systems designed in accordance with the prescriptive require-
ments in Part 9 of the NBC must incorporate:
w a principal ventilation system which includes an exhaust fan and a method of
introducing, tempering and distributing replacement outdoor air. This system must
be capable of continuously ventilating the house at an airflow rate referred to as the
“Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity” which is based on the number of bedrooms in
the dwelling unit.
w exhaust from all bathrooms and kitchens. This can be provided in whole or in part by
the principal ventilation system exhaust fans or supplemental exhaust fans
w protection against depressurization and pollutants. Measures must be implemented
to reduce occupant exposure to soil gas, combustion products and contaminated air General Ventilation
from attached garages.
• Where the authority having jurisdiction deems that soil gas entry to presents a significant risk to
occupants, builders are required to
- install active soil gas mitigation systems, or
- install make-up air systems to offset house depressurization caused by operation of any ex-
haust device other than the principal ventilation fan operating at the Normal Operating Exhaust
Capacity (e.g., exhaust fans, HRVs and ERVs that have exhaust only defrost, clothes dryers,
central vacs, rangehoods and other cooktop and oven exhaust devices)
• Make up air systems for exhaust devices are required if fuel fired space and water heating devices
of other than direct-vented and mechanically-vented types or solid-fuel-burning types are installed
Make Up Air for Large Exhaust
• Carbon monoxide alarms are required at specific locations in dwellings that contain fuel-burning
appliances or have attached garages
w fans which comply with specific airflow and sone (noise) ratings

Natural Ventilation
Dwellings not supplied with electricity must be provided with natural ventilation. Natu-
ral ventilation is provided by opening windows or other vent areas to a space.
Habitable rooms and spaces not provided with natural ventilation as specified in Table
9.32.2.3. “Air Change Rate” to control summer overheating must have mechanical
ventilation. Ventilation rates for spaces that do not have natural ventilation and are
mechanically cooled (i.e., air-conditioned) are specified in Table 9.32.2.3. “Air Change
Rate”. Spaces that do not have natural ventilation or mechanical cooling must have a
mechanical ventilation system with the capacity to supply at least one air change per
hour of outdoor air to the space or to exhaust at least one air change per hour from the
space.
The NBC has specific requirements for the unobstructed, openable ventilation areas
that must be provided for code conformance.

C3
 CODE REQUIREMENTS

Principal Ventilation System

The principal ventilation system must include an exhaust fan and a method to supply
and distribute ventilation air to the house. The principal ventilation system must be
controlled by a manual switch labelled “Ventilation Fan” located in the living area of
the dwelling unit. Turning this switch “on” must activate all fans which make up the
principal ventilation system. Other controls including automatic controls such as oc-
cupancy sensors and dehumidistats are also allowed. Their use is discussed further
under “Controls” in the “System Components” section of this manual.
The exhaust fan in the principal ventilation system must be capable of continuous
operation within the airflow range specified in Table 9.23.3.3 “Normal Operating Ex-
haust Capacity of Principal Ventilation Fan”. This airflow range varies with the number
of bedrooms in the dwelling unit. The Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity is modest
and is intended to provide general ventilation for the house. Additional or supplemental
exhaust is required to address exceptional or episodic pollutant loads in kitchens and
bathrooms.

TABLE 9.23.3.3
“NORMAL OPERATING EXHAUST CAPACITY OF PRINCIPAL VENTILATION FAN”
Number of Bedrooms Capacity of Principal
Normal Operating Exhaust
in Dwelling Unit Ventilation Fan
1 16 24
2 18 28
3 22 32
4 26 38
5 30 45
More than 5 System must comply with CAN/CSA-F326-M

Ventilation air to replace the air exhausted by the principal ventilation fan can be
supplied to a dwelling unit as infiltration air through the building envelope or through
a supply air duct. The supply air duct may be connected to the intake side of a forced
air heating system or to an auxiliary supply fan. In all cases there is a requirement for
the principal ventilation system to include measures to distribute the ventilation air
throughout the dwelling unit.
Distribution of ventilation air in dwellings with ventilation systems coupled to the
forced air heating system is achieved by requiring that the furnace fan operate
anytime the principal ventilation system is activated. There may be a requirement to
temper outdoor air introduced into a forced air heating system. This is discussed later
in this section of the manual.
In dwellings where an auxiliary supply fan system provides outdoor air for ventilation,
the supply fan must operate whenever the principal ventilation system is operated
and must turn off whenever the principal ventilation system is turned off.

C4
 CODE REQUIREMENTS

In houses with exhaust only ventilation, outdoor/ventilation air enters the house by
infiltration. A forced air distribution system must be operated to mix this outdoor air
throughout the house. The forced air distribution system must either be interlocked
so its circulation fan operates whenever the principal ventilation fan is activated or,
alternatively the forced air distribution system can be equipped with a control that
automatically activates the circulation fan at user-selected time intervals. Minimum
airflow rates for circulation fans in exhaust only ventilation systems is five times the
minimum Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity of Principal Ventilation Fan as specified
in Table 9.32.3.3.

KITCHEN, BATHROOM AND WATER CLOSET EXHAUST

Mechanical exhaust capability is required from all kitchens, bathrooms and water clos-
ets. This may be provided in whole or in part by principal ventilation system exhaust
fans or by supplemental exhaust fans.
Exhaust from bathrooms and water closets may be provided by an exhaust pick up
connected to the principal ventilation system exhaust fan or by a supplemental ex-
haust fan with a rated capacity of at least 25 L/s.
Exhaust from kitchens may be provided by a supplemental exhaust fan with a rated
capacity of at least 50 L/s. Alternatively it may be provided by the principal ventilation
system exhaust fan if:
w the only exhaust pick up for the principal ventilation system exhaust fan is in the
kitchen
OR

w the principal ventilation system exhaust fan can be manually switched to “high”
from a switch located in the kitchen and the exhaust flow rate on “high” is at least
2.5 times the minimum Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity.
Exhaust fans serving bathrooms and kitchens must be controlled by manual switches
located in the rooms served. This includes applications in which the principal ventila-
tion system exhaust fans provide bathroom exhaust requirements.

C5
 CODE REQUIREMENTS

Protection against Depressurization

The NBC limits mechanical system designs which may depressurize the dwelling unit.
Depressurization occurs when the amount of air being mechanically exhausted from
a space exceeds the amount of air which is being mechanically supplied to the space.
Clothes dryers, central vacs, exhaust fans, range hoods, other cooktop and oven ex-
haust fans (including over oven microwaves with built in exhaust) and the defrost cycle
of some HRVs and ERVs are examples of devices that may cause depressurization.
Depressurization becomes a concern when it impedes the complete venting of
combustion products from combustion appliances (backdrafting or spillage) or it
increases the flow of soil gas into living areas or it causes air to flow from potentially
contaminated spaces such as attached garages. Breathing of combustion products,
soil gas and pollutants from garages may pose health and life safety hazards.

PROTECTION FROM COMBUSTION PRODUCTS

FROM NON-SOLID FUEL-FIRED SPACE- AND WATER-HEATING
Where fuel-fired space-heating and/or or water-heating appliances (other than direct
vented or mechanically vented types) are installed, the builder must take steps to
ensure that the risk of combustion products being drawn into the dwelling unit is
limited. One option for assessing the risk of combustion products being drawn into
a dwelling unit is to apply the test procedures in CAN/CGSB-51.71 “Depressurization
Test“. This test determines if the levels of depressurization caused by exhaust devices
installed (or likely to be installed) in the dwelling are within the allowable limits for
the space- and water-heating appliances installed in the dwelling. If this test
demonstrates that maximum allowable levels will be exceeded, or if the builder
chooses not to apply this test procedure, the builder must install make-up air systems
to offset all mechanical exhaust flows, except for a principal ventilation fan operating
at the Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity.

SOLID-FUEL-BURNING APPLIANCE EXEMPTION

Dwelling units with solid-fuel-burning appliances do not require make-up air systems
provided that all other fuel-fired appliances are either direct-vented or mechanically
vented and provided that soil gas is deemed not to be a problem.

PROTECTION FROM SOIL GAS ENTRY

Make-up air systems are required if soil gas is deemed to be a problem and an active
soil gas mitigation system has not been installed. Soil gas is deemed to be a problem
if the Authority Having Jurisdiction (i.e., the local building code enforcement officer
or agency) designates it as being a problem in the area. It will generally be easier
and less costly to install an active soil gas mitigation system than to comply with the
requirements for make-up air.
Information regarding soil gas and active soil gas mitigation strategies and systems
can be found in the CMHC publication 61945 “Radon : A Guide for Canadian Homeown-
ers” available on line at https://www03.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/b2c/b2c/init.do?language=
en&shop=Z01EN&areaID=0000000016&productID=00000000160000000015
and in EPA publication 402-K-03-007 (aka ASTM E-2121) “Standard Practice for Install-
ing Radon Mitigation Systems in Existing Low-Rise Residential Buildings” on line at
http://www.epa.gov/radon/pubs/mitstds.html
C6
 CODE REQUIREMENTS

WHERE MAKE-UP AIR SYSTEMS ARE REQUIRED

Make up air systems are required for all exhaust devices installed in
dwelling units that:
w do not incorporate active soil gas mitigation systems even though the authority
having jurisdiction has deemed soil gas to be a problem in that geographic area
w use fuel-fired space- or water-heating appliances other than the direct vented type,
mechanically vented type or solid-fuel-burning type.
Make-up air system requirements can be avoided if:
w soil gas is an issue and an active soil gas mitigation system is installed

w the only types of fuel-fired space- or water-heating appliances installed are direct
vented, mechanically vented or solid-fuel-burning appliances.
It will generally be easier and less costly to avoid the need to install make-up air sys-
tems than to comply with the requirements for them.

REQUIREMENTS FOR MANDATORY MAKE-UP AIR SYSTEMS

Where make-up air systems are required, they must offset exhaust airflows for all
exhaust devices except a principal ventilation system exhaust fan operating at its
Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity. Make-up air system requirements include:
w the amount of outdoor air supplied by the make-up air system must be between the
actual exhaust airflow of the device being served and that airflow plus 10%
w the make-up air supply system must automatically operate whenever the exhaust
device for which it supplies make-up air is activated
w make-up air must be tempered to 12oC or delivered to normally unoccupied areas or
to a supply duct system
w make-up air fans handling untempered outdoor air must be approved by the manu-
facturer for the handling of untempered outdoor air

C7
 CODE REQUIREMENTS

Requirements for Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Carbon monoxide (CO) alarms are required in all dwelling units that have fuel-burning
appliances and/or attached garages. In addition to space- and water-heating appli-
ances, fuel burning appliances include fireplaces, gas ranges and gas clothes driers.
The requirements may differ, depending on whether they are addressing regular fuel-
burning appliances, solid-fuel-burning appliances or attached garages, and depending
on whether the fuel burning appliance is located in a suite or in a service room outside
the suite.
In general, CO alarms required by the NBC must:
w conform to CAN/CSA-6.19, “Residential Carbon Monoxide Alarming Devices”

w if connected to the house electric system, not have a disconnect switch between
the CO alarm and the breaker in the electrical panel
w be mechanically fastened on or near the ceiling, as recommended by the
manufacturer

A CO alarm must be installed in each room with a solid-fuel-burning appliance.

Where a fuel-burning appliance is installed in a suite:
w there must be a CO alarm inside of each bedroom or within 5 meters of each bed-
room door, measured following corridors and doorways
Where a fuel-burning appliance is installed in service room that is not inside a suite:
w each bedroom that shares a wall or floor/ceiling assembly must have a CO alarm
either inside each bedroom or within 5 meters of each bedroom door, measured fol-
lowing corridors and doorways
w a CO alarm must be installed in the service room

Where residential buildings are connected to garages:

w each suite sharing a wall or floor/ceiling assembly with the garage and each suite
which is adjacent to a crawlspace or attic to which the garage is also adjacent, must
have a CO alarm either inside each bedroom or within 5 meters of each bedroom
door, measured following corridors and doorways

C8
 CODE REQUIREMENTS

Requirements for Tempering Outdoor Air

The NBC may require outdoor air or make-up air to be tempered before being passed
through a furnace heat exchanger or delivered to living areas.
Where outdoor air is introduced through a forced air heating system, the forced
air heating system fan must operate whenever the principal ventilation system is
activated. With the outdoor air at the January 2½% temperature and an indoor air tem-
perature of 22oC, the mixed air temperature passing through a furnace must exceed
the minimum acceptable return air temperature of 15oC unless the furnace manu-
facturer specifically permits lower return air temperatures. Table 9.32.3.4 “Maximum
Outdoor Airflow” in the 2005 NBC can be used to determine if this requirement can
be met without needing other means to increase the mixed air temperature. Further
tempering of outdoor air can be done by preheating the air in an HRV or ERV, passing
the outdoor air through some type of heater or by increasing the fraction of house air
in the mixed air stream.

TABLE 9.32.3.4 “MAXIMUM OUTDOOR AIRFLOW”

January 2.5% Temperature as Maximum Outdoor Airflow for Indicated Mixed Air Temperature, L/s
per Appendix C, °C 0 -10 -20 -30 -40 -50
Minimum Mixed Air Temperature, °C 15 10 5 15 10 5 15 10 5 15 10 5 15 10 5 15 10 5
Furnace Airflow, L/s
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
100 32 55 77 11 38 53 17 29 40 13 23 33 11 19 27 10 17 24
200 64 109 155 44 75 106 33 57 81 27 46 65 23 39 55 19 33 47
300 - - - 66 113 159 50 86 121 40 69 98 34 58 82 29 50 71
400 - - - - - - - - - 54 92 131 45 77 110 39 67 94
500 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 43 83 118

Where air from the principal ventilation system is introduced into the house through
dedicated ductwork, the air must be tempered to at least 12oC unless it is supplied by
an HRV or ERV. This ventilation air must be delivered to rooms through outlets located
in the ceiling or on the wall at least 2 meters above the floor. These outlets must be
designed to promote diffusion (mixing with room air) across the ceiling.

C9
 Untempered make-up air can be introduced into normally unoccupied areas of the
dwelling unit. Otherwise it must be tempered to at least 12oC before being introduced
to either occupied spaces or a supply duct system. Make-up air introduced to occupied
spaces must be delivered through outlets located in the ceiling or on the wall at least
2 meters above the floor. These outlets must be designed to promote diffusion across
the ceiling.
While HRVs and ERVs may be economical for pre-heating ventilation air, they are gen-
erally not practical or economical for exhaust air make-up systems. Residential HRVs
and ERVs are not suitable for dirty applications such as range hoods and clothes dry-
ers. HRVs and ERVs are discussed in more detail in the section titled “Heat and Energy
Recovery Ventilators”. Specifying and installing heating coils (hydronic or electric) and
related controls is a job for a qualified designer or contractor.

The Code is the Law

The text of the NBC is what code enforcement agencies will use to evaluate ventilation
system designs and installations. If any information in this manual conflicts with the
NBC, the NBC requirements prevail.
The NBC includes notes for Section 9.32 in an Appendix. The Appendix is a non binding
part of the NBC; it provides general background and elaboration on actual require-
ments to clarify the intent of the committee that wrote this section of the Code.

C10
SYSTEM COMPONENTS

D
System Components
This section provides information on some specific components of ventilation systems.
Information is included on:
w Fans

w Exterior Hoods

w Grilles And Diffusers

w Dampers

w Make Up Air Fans

w Outdoor Air Tempering Devices

w Ventilation System Controls

w Energy Recovery Ventilators (HRVs and ERVs)

w Ductwork

D1
 SYSTEM COMPONENTS

Fans
Ventilation systems designed to meet Section 9.32 Ventilation of the NBC must have
exhaust fans and may require fans to supply outdoor air and make up air. When select-
ing fans, several criteria must be considered. These are discussed in detail below.

FAN CERTIFICATION
Fans must conform to Canadian Standards Association (CSA) C22.2 No. 113-M, “Fans
and Ventilators”. This standard includes requirements for electrical safety, fire and
personal injury. CSA C22.2 No. 113-M does not include testing for airflow performance
or noise. Fans that have been certified to CSA 22.2 No. 113-M are identified with the
Association’s certification mark.
Condensation on cold surfaces and electrical components of fans can create an electri-
cal safety hazard. For this reason, fans handling untempered outdoor air must be
designed and approved by the manufacturer for such use.
Air handling performance of fans required under Section 9.32 must be rated in ac-
cordance with:
w CAN/CSA C260-M “Rating the Performance of Residential Ventilating Equipment” or
HVI916 “Airflow Test Standard” for fans
w CAN/CSA-C439 “Rating the Performance of Heat/Energy-Recovery Ventilators” for
ERVs
Section 9.32 also imposes noise restrictions on required fans that are located in or
near normally occupied spaces. This is to reduce the likelihood that fan noise will be a
reason that occupants do not properly ventilate their homes. Where compliance with
sound ratings is required, fan sound ratings must have been determined using CAN/
CSA C260-M or HVI 915 “Procedure for Loudness Rating of Residential Fan Products”.
Airflow performance and noise data for residential fans is published in the Home
Ventilating Institute “Certified Home Ventilating Products Directory”. This directory is
available on-line at www.hvi.org or from
Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada
2800 Skymark Avenue, Building 1, Suite 201
Mississauga, Ontario, Canada L4W 5A6
Tel 1-800-267-2231 or (905) 602-4700 Fax (905) 602-1197

FAN AIR HANDLING PERFORMANCE

Airflow of a fan varies with external static pressure. External static pressure (ESP) is
the resistance to airflow created by elements beyond the air handling apparatus (e.g.,
ductwork, filters and grilles that are not part of the fan, HRV/ERV or furnace). Fan ESP
is usually the resistance or static pressure drop caused by the attached duct system.
At a given fan speed, fan airflow decreases as ESP increases. For a given duct system,
static pressure increases as airflow increases. Static pressure drop through a duct
system is a function of the diameter and length of ductwork, the smoothness (or
roughness) of ductwork and the number and type of fittings. Smaller duct diameters,
longer duct lengths and more fittings increase duct system static pressure drops. Flex
duct is considered “rough” and imposes much higher static pressure drops than does
smooth ductwork. In order to achieve specified airflows, fans must be matched to the
duct system to which they are connected.
D2
 SYSTEM COMPONENTS

In Section 9.32, the ESP at which a fan’s airflow must be rated is based on the applica-
tion of the fan and the nature of the duct system to which it is connected. Specific
requirements are:
w all required fans with ductwork connected to both the fan inlet and outlet side must
have their airflow rated at an ESP of at least 100 Pa (0.4 in W.C.). This type of ap-
plication will include most inline fans and HRV/ ERV installations.
w principal ventilation fans in exhaust-only systems with ductwork connected only
on one side of the fan must have their airflow rated at an ESP of at least 62 Pa (0.25
in W.C.). Typical examples of this application would be rangehoods and/or ceiling
mount bathroom fans when they are used as principal ventilation fans.
w all other required fans must have their airflow rated at an ESP of at least 25 Pa (0.1
in W.C.). This includes rangehoods and ceiling mount bathroom fans used to meet
supplemental exhaust requirements.

FAN SOUND RATINGS

The NBC specifies maximum sound level (noise) ratings for fans (other than HRVs and
ERVs) that meet principal ventilation system requirements, supplemental exhaust
requirements and make-up air requirements. (Sound level ratings are not available
for HRVs and ERVs.) Fans with less than 1 meter of duct between them and visible
surfaces of rooms (other than unfinished basements, furnace rooms, utility rooms
and attics) have the following sound rating requirements:
w 2.0 sones for principal ventilation fans rated according to CAN/CSA-C260-M or 2.5
sones if rated according to HVI 915
w 2.5 sones for supplemental fans installed in bathrooms, and their make-up air fans
rated according to CAN/CSA-C260-M or 3.5 sones if rated according to HVI 915
There are not sound level rating requirements for supplemental fans installed in kitch-
ens or their make-up air fans.
Manufacturers provide instructions on how to install fans to minimize noise. Not fol-
lowing manufacturer instructions on mounting fans will usually increase operating
noise levels. Installers should avoid hard mounting fans on wood frame constructions
(e.g., floor joists and frame walls). If fans must be supported by floor joists, use rub-
ber suspension straps. Where fans are mounted on frame walls, use rubber isolation
blocks between the fan and wall.

D3
 SYSTEM COMPONENTS

FAN CONFIGURATION
PROPELLER FANS are inexpensive fans suitable for low pressure applications. Com-
mon applications are low cost bathroom fans, low cost range hoods and through the
wall fans. As a rule, ductwork should only be connected to the fan outlet side since air
flow decreases rapidly as the amount of ductwork or number of fittings increases.
SQUIRREL CAGE FANS are less sensitive to the amount of ductwork and number of
fittings than propeller fans. They are suitable where ductwork is connected both up-
stream and downstream of the fan. Squirrel cage fans are commonly installed in HRVs
and ERVs, better quality range hoods and central exhaust systems.
IN LINE CENTRIFUGAL FANS (centrifugal fans that fit in line with the ductwork) are
popular as central exhaust fans because of their convenient installation, good perfor-
mance and quiet operation.

FAN DURABILITY (SERVICE LIFE)

Principal exhaust fans and auxiliary supply fans should be capable of continuous
operation over long periods of time. The quality of the bearings, rotor balancing and the
ruggedness of the construction all influence longevity. Unfortunately, there is no third
party testing to assist in judging the durability of a particular fan. Product guarantees,
past experience and recommendations from trades people represent the best means
of determining product reliability.

FAN COSTS
INSTALLED COST or the cost to a builder of better quality fans is often lower than for
budget fans because better quality fans are often easier to install and are less likely to
result in a callback.
OPERATING COST is the occupant’s cost to run and maintain a fan. Better quality fans
are likely to consume less electricity and require less maintenance. Oversized fans
use more electricity and increase heating and cooling requirements. Size and efficien-
cy are important selection criteria for fans which will operate several thousand hours
per year.

D4
 SYSTEM COMPONENTS

Outdoor Intake and Exhaust Penetrations

There are specific requirements which apply to outdoor intake and exhaust openings.
Requirements applying to both exhaust and intake openings are:
w the integrity of the building envelope (its rain screen on the exterior and air/vapour
barrier on the interior) must be maintained at all penetrations
w louvres, weather cowls, screens and/or grilles must be used to keep rain, snow,
wind, birds and rodents out of the connected ducts
w screens and grilles must be of corrosion resistant material

w screens, grilles and/or filters must be easily removable for cleaning, without the
need for special tools
w the area of the opening in a hood must be at least as large as the required area of
the duct served
w where screens or grilles with a mesh size of less than 6mm are installed in an open-
ing, the area of the opening at the screen or grille must be larger than the required
area of the duct served: 3 times the required area of the duct served for mesh sizes
of less than 4 mm (5/32 inch); 2 times the area of the duct served for mesh sizes
between 4 and 6 mm (5/32 to ¼ inch)

EXHAUST HOOD REQUIREMENTS

w Backdraft dampers are required in all exhaust ducts, except HRVs and ERVs. Opera-
tion should be smooth and closure should be relatively airtight.
w Either a backdraft damper or a corrosion resistant rodent/bird screen must be
located at the building envelope.
Minimum
w Locate the bottom of exhaust outlets at least 100 mm (4 inches) above finished 100 mm
grade or other nearer horizontal surface.
w Terminating exhaust outlets in enclosed spaces (e.g., garages, attics, soffit spaces,
crawlspaces, under low decks) is prohibited. Moisture from the exhaust air will
condense in and on building elements in cold weather.

INTAKE HOOD REQUIREMENTS

w Locate hoods so as to avoid contamination of ventilation air from automobiles,
garbage collection areas, exhausts from adjacent buildings, etc.
w Locate hoods at least 900 mm (36 inches) away from sources of potential
contaminants such as gas vents, oil fill pipes and combustion appliance vents.
w Label intake hood as an outdoor air intake. Label must be clearly visible.

w Intake openings must have corrosion resistant rodent/bird screen or grille. Minimum
450 mm
w Locate the bottom of the inlet at least 450 mm (18 inches) above finished grade
or other nearer horizontal surface and above the maximum depth of expected
snow accumulation.
w Air intakes will pick up debris and lint. Openings must be accessible for cleaning
(not under low decks).

D5
 SYSTEM COMPONENTS

GOOD PRACTICE
Fuel codes specify minimum clearances between penetrations in the envelope (e.g.,
windows and intake and exhaust hoods) and combustion appliance flue vents, gas
meters, oil fill pipes, etc. Marking the location of all penetrations and outside services
on the drawings will go a long way toward ensuring that clearance restrictions are not
violated. Do not locate exhaust outlets where condensation from the exhaust air can
cause a hazard (e.g., ice on a sidewalk).
When specifying intake or exhaust hoods, consider:
w Ease of sealing the hood to the building rain screen and air barrier to prevent water
and air leakage into the building envelope.
w method of connecting the duct to the hood and hood to the wall.

w Ability of the weather shield to prevent entry of precipitation.

w Resistance to deterioration from exposure to sunlight.

w Ability to withstand accidental bumps and bangs.

w Double collar or “vapour barrier collar” construction to accommodate insulated duct

connections.
w Installation of intake and exhaust hoods on different walls, where practical

Grilles, Diffusers and Registers

Grilles are the louvred or perforated covers over heating and ventilation system air in-
lets and outlets. Diffusers are grilles designed to diffuse or spread supply air through-
out a space. Registers are grilles or diffusers with built-in flow control dampers. The
size, type and location of grilles and diffusers can impact occupant comfort and thus
satisfaction with the ventilation system.

TYPE OF GRILLE
Common “heating” grilles are designed to direct air into room areas normally occupied
by people, that is the “occupied zone”. “Air-conditioning” grilles direct cool air along the
ceiling or wall, allowing it to mix with space air before entering the occupied zone. If
the air supplied will be cool at times, air-conditioning grilles are appropriate.

SIZE
Undersized grilles restrict air flows and may be noisy. The grille and terminal box
should have a free area at least equal to the cross sectional area of the connected
duct. Where free area data is not available from a grille manufacturer, it may be esti-
mated as 50% of the face area of the grille, 25% if the grille includes a filter.

D6
 SYSTEM COMPONENTS

MOUNTING LOCATION
EXHAUST GRILLES IN KITCHENS (except for range hoods) must be located in the
ceiling or on a wall at least 2 meters above the floor. Exhaust grilles located within 3
meters horizontally of a range must be equipped with grease filters at the intake end.
PRINCIPAL EXHAUST AIR INTAKES located in kitchens, bathrooms and water closets
must be located in the ceiling or on a wall at least 2 meters above the floor. This re-
quirement will generally preclude using a rangehood as the principal ventilation fan.
SUPPLY AIR GRILLES should be selected and located to avoid drafts in the occupied
zones. For ventilation systems not coupled to forced air heating systems, supply air
outlets must be located in ceilings or on walls at least 2 meters above the floor and
installed to promote diffusion (i.e., mixing with space air) across the ceiling before the
air enters the occupied zone.

Dampers
Dampers control air flow by obstructing the air flow passage to reduce or stop air flow
in a duct. Air flow in one branch of a duct system can be increased by “dampering
down” air flow in another branch. While the air flow in some ducts can be increased
by sacrificing air flow to others, the net result will be a reduction in total air flow and
perhaps an increase in noise levels. Dampers cannot compensate for undersized fans
or for ducts which excessively restrict air flow.
BALANCING DAMPERS are required in all ventilation system branch ducts not fitted
with registers. Balance dampers must be accessible and have a lock and a position
indicator.
BACKDRAFT DAMPERS prevent air from flowing backwards in ducts. Exhaust systems,
except HRVs and ERVs, must have backdraft dampers to reduce air leakage when the
fan is off. Poorly designed backdraft dampers may stick or freeze open or shut. Back-
draft dampers need to function smoothly and seal tightly when closed. The fan must
overcome the weight and balance of the damper. A heavy or stiff damper will restrict
air flow.
MOTORIZED OR POWER DAMPERS provide automatic and positive duct opening and
closure. The damper drive motor may operate at line voltage or low voltage and must
be interlocked with the fan they serve. Motorized dampers which handle untempered
outdoor air must be approved by the manufacturer for that use.

D7
 SYSTEM COMPONENTS

Make-up Air Fans

THE REQUIREMENT FOR MAKE-UP AIR
Make-up air is outdoor air supplied to a space to replace or “make-up for” air being
mechanically exhausted from the space. Devices which exhaust more air from a space
than is mechanically supplied to the space will depressurize the space. Depressuriza-
tion may cause pressure-induced spillage of combustion products and increase soil
gas entry into a building. The NBC includes measures to reduce these risks.
The NBC requires make-up air for all exhaust devices other than a principal ventilation
fan exhausting air from the house at its Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity if
w the dwelling unit contains fuel-fired space- or water-heating appliances other than
direct-vented and mechanically-vented types or solid-fuel-burning types, unless
testing indicates that depressurization will be within acceptable limits.
w an active soil gas mitigation system has not been installed even though soil gas is
deemed to be a problem by the local code authorities.
Clothes dryers, central vacs, range hoods, downdraft cooktops supplemental exhaust
fans and HRVs or ERVs with unbalanced defrost cycles are examples of appliances
that may require make-up air.
It is recommended that steps be taken as necessary to avoid the need to provide
make-up air, because installing make-up air systems which comply with the require-
ments in 9.32 will generally be quite complex and costly. However, if a dwelling may
require make-up air, include provisions such as casting make-up air inlets in founda-
tions and providing electrical connections for make-up air systems at the time of
construction. When construction is complete, the need for make-up air may be re-as-
sessed by an on-site test carried out in compliance with CAN/CGSB-51.71 “Depressur-
ization Test“.
The NBC requires that make-up air be heated to at least 12 C if it is introduced directly
to a living area in the house. Alternatively, unconditioned make-up air can be sup-
plied to normally unoccupied areas such as unfinished basements or utility rooms.
Provision needs to be made to ensure that make-up air can freely flow to the exhaust
device for which it is being provided, and that make-up air will not freeze plumbing
pipes, etc.

SIZING MAKE-UP AIR SYSTEMS

Make-up air systems are to be sized and operated so that the net airflow of the associ-
ated exhaust device neither pressurizes nor depressurizes the space. As a minimum,
the amount of make-up air that must be mechanically supplied when an exhaust
device is operating is equal to the amount of air being exhausted by that device. The
maximum allowable make-up air flow rate is equal to the exhaust device air flow rate
plus 10%. This gives a designer very little latitude when sizing make-up air fans. From
a practical perspective, it may be easiest if each exhaust device has its own make-up
air system.

D8
 SYSTEM COMPONENTS

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Condensation on the cold surfaces and electrical components of fans can create an
electrical safety hazard. For this reason, electrical devices which handle untempered
outdoor air must be designed and approved by their manufacturer for such use. Make
up air ducts which carry untempered air through heated spaces must be insulated and
have an air/vapour barrier on the outside surface to minimize surface condensation.

AVOIDING COMPLAINTS
Introducing cool air into an occupied space, even in compliance with NBC require-
ments, has the potential to cause discomfort. Discomfort can be reduced by:
w eliminating the need for make up air systems by using direct-vented and/or me-
chanically-vented fuel-fired space- and water-heating appliances and/or where soil
gas is a problem, installing an active soil gas mitigation system
w using more than one pre heating or tempering measure and using good design and
installation practices (e.g., mixing outdoor air with house air and then introducing it
to a space through high wall air-conditioning type diffusers or mixing HRV/ERV sup-
ply air with house air in a forced air system)

Ventilation System Operation and Controls

BASIC REQUIREMENTS
PRINCIPAL VENTILATION FAN must be controlled by a manual switch labelled “Ventila-
tion Fan” located in the living area of the dwelling unit. Turning this switch “on” must
activate all principal ventilation system exhaust fans and any supply fans which are
part of the principal ventilation system.
In addition to the manual control, the principal exhaust fans may be controlled by a
dehumidistat, occupancy sensor or other automatic control. The manual switch must
activate the principal exhaust system regardless of the setting of the automatic con-
trols. The principal ventilation system must not operate when all the controls for the
principal ventilation system are in the “off” position.
The manual override in a dehumidistat or other automatic control may function as the
required manual control provided that it is located in the living area and is labelled
“Ventilation Fan”.
DISTRIBUTION OF VENTILATION AIR in dwellings with ventilation systems coupled to
the forced air heating system, the furnace fan must operate anytime the principal
ventilation system is activated.
In dwellings where an auxiliary supply fan system provides outdoor air for ventilation,
the supply fan must operate whenever the principal ventilation system is operated
and must turn off whenever the principal ventilation system is turned off.
In houses with exhaust only ventilation, the forced air distribution system must either
be interlocked so its circulation fan operates whenever the principal ventilation fan is
activated or, alternatively the forced air distribution system can be equipped with a
control that automatically activates the circulation fan at user-selected time intervals.

D9
 SYSTEM COMPONENTS

SUPPLEMENTAL EXHAUST for bathrooms and kitchens must be controlled by manual

switches located in the rooms served. In addition, they may be controlled by dehu-
midistats or other automatic controls. The manual switch must be able to activate the
supplemental exhaust fan regardless of the setting of the automatic control.
Where the requirements for supplemental kitchen and bathroom exhaust are met
by a principal ventilation fan, the switches required in those rooms are additional to
switch labelled “Ventilation Fan” located in the living area. Where a two speed principal
ventilation system exhaust fan meets kitchen exhaust requirements, the switch in the
kitchen must be labeled “Kitchen Exhaust”.
HRV/ERV control requirements are those noted above for whatever functions the
HRV/ERV is intended to meet.

MODES OF OPERATION
MANUAL OPERATION requires the occupant to turn the ventilation system on and off. It
ensures the system is only turned on when the occupant turns it on.
AUTOMATIC OPERATION uses controls such as time clocks, dehumidistats and occu-
pancy sensors to operate the ventilation system.
CONTINUOUS OPERATION ensures that the house is always ventilated, but may result
in over ventilation at times. All ventilation systems must include manual controls, even
if the occupant installs automatic controls or plans to operate the ventilation system
continuously.
HIGH/LOW OPERATION uses a two speed fan which normally operates on low speed,
but on call for increased ventilation, switches to high speed. High speed operation may
be initiated by manual and/or automatic controls.

TYPES OF CONTROLS
ON/OFF SWITCHES give occupants control over when fans operate. They are inexpen-
sive and their operation is well understood. However, they do not ensure that fans will
be turned on and off as required.
TIMER SWITCHES (mechanical or electronic) have operating time ranges from a few
minutes to several hours. A timer switch turns the power off at a predetermined time
after the fan has been activated. Spring wound “crank timers” allow the user to select
the operating time with each use.
Electronic “touch timers” have a pre set period of operation, which can be adjusted.
Timer switches do not ensure that fans are operated when needed, but they ensure
that they will be turned off (or speed reduced in the case of High/Low operation).
DELAYED OFF SWITCHES are combination manual/timer switches. The fan is activated
manually. The user can then turn the fan off immediately or activate a timer which will
run the fan for a predetermined time period before turning it off. This has the advan-
tage of continuing ventilation after the occupant has left the room without allowing the
fan to run indefinitely.

D10
 SYSTEM COMPONENTS

TIME CLOCKS which control the ventilation system based on time of day and day of
week may be appropriate where occupancy follows a regular schedule. The timer can
be scheduled to turn the ventilation system off after occupants normally leave and
turn it on again shortly before they return. Twenty four hour and seven day timers with
“holiday” over rides are readily available.
DEHUMIDISTATS operate the ventilation system (or activate high speed) when humid-
ity levels exceed the control setpoint. This may help control indoor humidity, but does
not ensure control of other pollutants.
It is common to adjust the dehumidistat to control window condensation, therefore the
appropriate humidity setpoint will vary with outdoor temperature. Occupants should
be instructed to lower the dehumidistat setting in the cold weather to reduce window
condensation and to turn the dehumidistat to the “off” position in the summer.
In dwellings with humidifiers, occupants should be advised to set the humidistat at
least 15% lower than the dehumidistat.
DEMAND CONTROLS operate the ventilation system only when needed. The ideal ven-
tilation system would monitor and control the level of all contaminants in the house
air. To date, only sensors for humidity, carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide have been
commercially developed and marketed for residential applications.
Fan cycling controls that cycle the principal ventilation system and/or furnace circula-
tion fan on and off on a user specified schedule are commercially available and are
permitted. These controls can automatically provide an average ventilation rate of less
than the full capacity of a single speed ventilation fan. They can be used to inter-
mittently operate a furnace circulation fan, meeting NBC requirement to distribute
ventilation air throughout the house while reducing the energy required to operate the
circulation fan.
OCCUPANCY SENSORS operate the ventilation system when they sense when some-
one is in a space. They are available for residential ventilation system control and are
allowed under the NBC.
MULTIPLE CONTROLS are permissible and often desirable. For example, a single
supplemental exhaust fan may serve more than one bathroom provided that a manual
switch is located in each bathroom. Automatic and manual control of a fan is also pos-
sible.
Multiple controls can be parallel wired so that any control can turn on the ventilation
system, regardless of the setting of others. If regular on/off switches are used, all con-
trols must be in the off position in order to turn a ventilation system component off.

LINE VOLTAGE/LOW VOLTAGE CONTROL

Line Voltage Controls must be wired by an electrician, in accordance with the electrical
code. Line power wiring can be relatively expensive if multiple controls are being used.
Low Voltage Controls (12 and 24 VDC) use less expensive wire but require transform-
ers and relays. Low voltage controls do not have to be wired by an electrician. Many
packaged ventilators and HRV/ERVs have low voltage controls built in, allowing the
installer to do the controls wiring. Electrical codes generally prohibit making low volt-
age and line voltage connections in the same electrical box.

D11
 SYSTEM COMPONENTS

ELECTRICAL INTERCONNECTIONS
The code requires that certain fans be controlled to operate in conjunction with other
devices. These include make-up air systems, furnace circulation fans, and auxiliary
supply fans. Methods of controlling fans include using:
w relays or double pole double throw switches,

w direct electrical connections to the exhaust device,

w current sensors on the power line to the exhaust device,

w air flow sensors in the fan or exhaust device outlet.

Relays and double pole double throw switches can be used to simultaneously control
more than one electrical device. Relays can operate several sets of contacts at once
and may operate at line voltage or at low voltage. Double pole double throw switches
are light switch type devices which can simultaneously switch devices in two sepa-
rate electrical circuits.
Some exhaust devices have an integral switched electrical outlet or terminals which
are powered whenever the exhaust device is operated. This allows a make up air fan to
be easily electrically interconnected to the exhaust device.
While a knowledgeable electrician can make electrical connections inside most electri-
cal devices, this may invalidate warranties and will require special inspections and
approvals by an electrical inspector. It will be easiest if equipment with the needed
contacts or relays already factory installed are selected.
A current sensor on the power line to an electric device is a recommended method to
electrically interconnect it to devices that do not have switched electrical connections.
The current sensor senses when electricity flows in a power line. It can control a relay
which operates the second device when the first device is turned on.
An air flow sensing switch or pressure sensor located in the outlet of the first device
can also be used to control the second device. These are less desirable solutions
because flow sensing switches may restrict air flows or be immobilized by lint, dirt or
grease in the exhaust stream.

D12
 SYSTEM COMPONENTS

Heat and Energy Recovery Ventilators

(HRVs and ERVs)
HRVs and ERVs can provide continuous, balanced ventilation with reduced energy
costs and improved comfort levels when compared to ventilation systems without
energy recovery. Many builders install HRV/ERVs in show homes to enhance their im-
age to a public which is increasingly concerned about indoor air pollution and energy
conservation. HRV/ERV systems designed within the requirements of NBCC 9.32 can
meet all ventilation and exhaust requirements of most dwellings, either with their own
dedicated duct system or when used in conjunction with a forced air heating system.
HRV/ERVs coupled to forced air heating systems must supply outdoor air directly into
the return duct of the forced air heating system, otherwise the ventilation system
must be designed to CAN/CSA-F326. An HRV/ERV’s ductwork must not be connected in
parallel air flow to another HRV/ERV unless specifically recommended by the manufac-
turer.
The supply and exhaust airflows for an HRV/ERV operating at the principle exhaust
flow rate must be balanced to within 10% of each other, unless otherwise recom-
mended by the manufacturer. The HRV/ERV must be installed in a location where
ambient temperatures will not affect its operation or freeze the condensate drain. The
condensate drain must meet the manufacturer’s recommendations or be a minimum
1/2 inch nominal pipe size, pitched in the direction of flow and have a trap and drain to
the buildings waste and vent system or to a condensation pump.
HRV/ERVs installed to provide all or part of the NBC ventilation requirements must
be rated in accordance with CAN/CSA-C439 “Rating the Performance of Heat/Energy
Recovery Ventilators”. Certified equipment ratings are available from manufacturers,
suppliers and the Home Ventilating Institute (HVI) “Certified Home Ventilating Products
Directory”. This directory is available online at hvi.org or in hard copy form from HVI or
HRAI.

SELECTING AN HRV/ERV
The performance of various HRV/ERVs can be compared based on the CAN/CSA C439
test results. Equipment certified by HVI have undergone standard tests to determine
air movement capacity, heat recovery efficiency and cold weather performance char-
acteristics.
When selecting an HRV/ERV consideration should be given to:
w installation convenience (e.g., top vs side ducts),

w whether the HRV/ERV will depressurize the house during defrost sufficiently to
require make-up air, ability of the equipment to meet the ventilation requirements,
heat recovery efficiency and ventilation performance during cold weather operation,
w ease of measuring and setting airflows (some units have built in balance dampers
and flow measuring stations), availability of qualified installers, service people and
parts, and installed cost..

D13
 SYSTEM COMPONENTS

Ductwork
SIZING
Table 9.32.3.11.A. “Equivalent Duct Sizes” is a simplified duct sizing chart. It permits a user to determine allowable
duct sizes (i.e., diameters and lengths) using fan external static pressure and required airflow. Alternatively, detailed
duct system designs are permitted and will often result in smaller duct diameters. Detailed duct system designs are
required for applications that fall outside the limits of Table 9.32.3.11.A.

TABLE 9.32.3.11.A. Maximum Airflow in Duct, L/s

“EQUIVALENT DUCT SIZES”
7 15 25 35 50 75 100
Fan’s ESP, Pa Duct Diameter, mm Maximum Length of Duct, m
75 6 1 0 0 0 0 0
100 25 6 2 1 0 0 0
125 60 17 6 3 1 0 0
25
150 60 42 16 8 4 2 1
175 60 60 34 18 9 4 2
200 60 60 60 35 18 8 5
75 16 4 1 0 0 0 0
100 60 16 6 3 1 0 0
125 60 47 18 9 5 2 1
50
150 60 60 44 23 12 5 3
175 60 60 60 49 25 12 7
200 60 60 60 60 48 22 13
75 22 5 2 1 0 0 0
100 60 21 8 4 2 1 0
125 60 60 24 12 6 3 1
62.5
150 60 60 58 31 15 7 4
175 60 60 60 60 33 15 9
200 60 60 60 60 60 29 17
75 38 9 3 1 0 0 0
100 60 36 14 7 3 1 1
125 60 60 41 22 11 5 3
100
150 60 60 60 53 27 12 7
175 60 60 60 60 57 27 15
200 60 60 60 60 60 51 30
75 59 14 5 2 1 0 0
100 60 57 22 11 6 2 1
125 60 60 60 34 17 8 4
150
150 60 60 60 60 42 20 11
175 60 60 60 60 60 42 24
200 60 60 60 60 60 60 46

D14
 SYSTEM COMPONENTS

RULES WHEN APPLYING TABLE 9.32.3.11.A:

w when sizing branch ducts, “maximum length of duct” refers to the physical length of
the duct from the interior grille served by that branch duct to the exterior hood
w when sizing a truck duct, “maximum length of duct” refers to the physical length
of the duct from the interior grille of the longest branch served by that trunk to the
exterior hood
w outdoor supply ducts shall be sized as truck ducts

w “maximum airflow in duct” refers to the maximum airflow rate that a given section of
duct (branch or trunk) must provide to satisfy the ventilation system design
w “fan’s ESP” or “fan’s external static pressure” refers to the external static pressure at
which the fan is rated to achieve the maximum airflow rate that the fan is required
or intended to provide
w where flexible duct is used, it may be sized by choosing the next higher diameter in
Table 9.32.3.11.A or by choosing the diameter for a duct twice as long as the actual
length
w where rectangular duct is used in place of round duct, it shall be selected according
to Table 9.32.3.11.B “Equivalent Duct Sizes”

TABLE 9.32.3.11.B “EQUIVALENT DUCT SIZES”

Permitted Equivalent Rectangular Duct Size, mm
Required Round Duct Size, mm
Stack Duct 100 mm depth 125 mm depth 150 mm depth
75 75 x 150 50 x 100 - -
100 75 x 250 75 x 100 75 x 125 75 x 150
125 75 x 250 125 x 100 100 x 125 100 x 150
150 75 x 300 200 x 100 150 x 125 125 x 150
175 75 x 350 275 x 100 200 x 125 175 x 150
> 175 detailed duct system design is required

DUCT MATERIALS
Ducts connected to a forced air heating system and range hoods must be made of
noncombustible materials. Ductwork not connected to a heating device may be made
of combustible materials. Ducts serving bathrooms or water closets must be con-
structed of a material impervious to water. Flexible ducts must meet the requirements
for Class 1 duct materials in CAN/ULC-S110-M, “Tests for Duct Materials”.
Exhaust intakes located within 3 meters of a range must be equipped with a grease fil-
ter at the intake end. Ductwork for range hoods and range top fans must have a filter at
the intake end and must be noncombustible and corrosion resistant and lead directly
to the outdoors without connection to other exhaust ducts or fans.

D15
 SYSTEM COMPONENTS

DUCT SEALING AND INSULATION

The NBC requires that joints in all ventilation system ducting be sealed with mastic,
metal foil duct tape, or the manufacturers’ specified sealants.
Ducts carrying exhaust air through unheated spaces or untempered outdoor air
through heated spaces must be insulated to at least RSI 0.5 (R 2.8).

WORKMANSHIP
Ductwork must be permanently supported or clipped to prevent sagging, excessive
movement and vibration. Use of vibration isolating connections between fans and
ducts is recommended. These are flexible fabric collars between fans and ductwork
that prevent fan vibration from being transmitted to the connected ductwork.
Assemble ductwork joints and fittings so as to inhibit air leakage. Joints between sec-
tions of round ductwork should be lapped at least 25 mm (1 inch) and mechanically
fastened.
Exhaust ducts passing through unheated spaces should be sloped to the outdoors to
prevent condensation dripback. HRV/ERV cold side exhaust ducts should be sloped
and supported to prevent water accumulation in low spots.
Good workmanship is demonstrated by straight duct runs with a minimum of bends
and elbows and tight fitting, mechanically fastened joints. Ductwork should be cleared
of debris to ensure airflow and air quality standards can be met. It is desirable to have
permanently install flow measuring stations for both the supply and return airflow
streams for HRV/ERVs. These are built into some HRV/ERVs. The HRAI Residential Me-
chanical Ventilation Guide should be followed as a guide to good practice.
A builder should ensure that the house designer is sensitive to mechanical system
requirements. A modest amount of planning and trades coordination will go a long way
in facilitating good workmanship, tidy installations and effective ventilation systems.

TERMINATIONS
Exhaust and ventilation ducts must not terminate in closed spaces such as crawl-
spaces, attics, soffits and garages. The air quality in these locations makes them an
unacceptable source for outdoor air, and the problems caused by condensation from
exhaust air during cold weather makes them unacceptable for exhaust outlets.

D16
SYSTEM OPTIONS

E
System Options
Detailed descriptions are provided for four basic ventilation system options which meet the National
Building Code requirements. Within each of these detailed descriptions are variations of the basic
options.

E1
 SYSTEM OPTIONS

SYSTEM OPTIONS
Builders are responsible to ensure that ventilation systems installed in new dwellings meet the NBC. Builders may
choose to design ventilation systems or may select from the system options described in this section of the manual.
In any case, the builder should consult with the homeowner to ensure that the ventilation system selected will meet
the owners’ needs and expectations. He should also confirm that the systems will meet local code requirements.
The system options described in this manual will help builders meet the NBC requirements with a minimum of confu-
sion. One or more of these ventilation system options will be suitable for most dwellings, although some dwellings
may require custom designed ventilation systems.

The following pages contain specific information on each ventilation system option, including:
w Ventilation System Decision Trees to help users determine which ventilation system design approach to use (i.e.,
Part 6, Part 9 or CAN/CSA-F326) and which Part 9 ventilation system options may be used.
w A four page information pull out for each of the Part 9 ventilation system options described. The pull outs describe
the basic functions and controls for each ventilation system, provide data needed to size and select ventilation
system components and give a checklist of items for consideration when planning and installing the ventilation
system.
Users of this manual are encouraged to photocopy the pullouts or any other part of the manual that will help explain
ventilation system design, installation or operation to builders, subcontractors and customers.

E2
 SYSTEM OPTIONS
Exhaust-Only Ventilation, Distribution
by a Forced Air Heating System
See NBC Ventilation System Options A and E
APPLICATION
Dwelling using these system configurations must have:
w forced air heating
w make-up air for exhaust devices or an active soil gas
mitigation system if soil gas is deemed to be a problem
Dwelling using these system configurations must not
have:
w solid-fuel-burning appliances
w any fireplaces except the direct-vented type
w fuel-fired space- and/or water-heating appliances
except direct-vented and power-vented types
SYSTEM CHARACTERISTICS
w Simplest and lowest installed cost for most applica-
tions
w Does not easily include energy recovery.
w Generally not operated very much by occupants
w May cause cool drafts that affect occupant comfort
during cold weather
VENTILATION AIR SUPPLY
The principal ventilation (exhaust) fan exhausts from
the kitchen and/or bathrooms and/or other location(s).
Replacement outdoor air is drawn in through the build-
ing envelope. The furnace circulation fan operates to mix
and distribute outdoor air.
VENTILATION AIR DISTRIBUTION
The furnace must supply air to each bedroom, any
storey without a bedroom (including basements and
heated crawlspaces) and if there is no storey without
a bedroom, to the principal living area. The furnace fan
must have a rated capacity of at least five times the ac-
tual Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity of the Principal
Ventilation Fan.
SUPPLEMENTAL EXHAUST
Supplemental exhaust of at least 50 L/s is required from
each kitchen unless:
w the principal ventilation system exhaust fan only
draws exhaust air from the kitchen
OR
w the principal ventilation system exhaust fan can be
switched to an exhaust rate of at least 2.5 times the
minimum Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity for
the dwelling unit, in which case the principal ventila-
tion system exhaust fan can serve the kitchen and
other spaces without requiring supplemental kitchen
exhaust.
Supplemental exhaust of at least 25 L/s is required from
any bathrooms not connected to the principal ventila-
tion system exhaust fan.
MAKEUP AIR REQUIREMENTS
Make-up air systems are required for all exhaust de-
vices other than the principal ventilation fan operating
at its Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity if soil gas is
deemed to be a problem.
Makeup air must be tempered to 12oC or warmer before
being introduced into occupied areas of the house or
into a supply duct system.
CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS
Carbon monoxide alarms are required in or near the bed-
rooms in all dwelling units with fuel-burning appliances,
attached to a storage garage or attached to a service
room in which a fuel burning appliance is installed.
Carbon monoxide alarms are also required in each room
with a solid-fuel burning appliance. Carbon monoxide
alarms may be either hard-wired or battery-operated.
E3

Exhaust-Only Ventilation, Distribution by a Forced Air Heating System
CONTROLS
A centrally located manual switch labelled “Ventila-
tion Fan” operates principal exhaust fan at the Normal
Operating Exhaust Capacity. The furnace circulation fan
is controlled to operate whenever principal exhaust fan
is operated, or alternately the forced air system can be
equipped with a control that automatically operates the
furnace fan at user-selected time intervals.
A manual fan control switch is required in each room
served by a supplemental exhaust fan. Where the
kitchen supplemental exhaust requirement is met by
the principal exhaust fan, the control in the kitchen must
be labelled “Kitchen Exhaust”.
Principal exhaust fans and supplemental exhaust fans
may also be activated by automatic controls (e.g., dehu-
midistats), provided the manual controls will operate the
fans regardless of the setting of the automatic controls
and the fans do not operate when all controls are in the
off position.
Make-up air systems must operate automatically when
the device they serve is operated.
BASIC COMPONENTS SPECIFICATION
The principal ventilation fan must be approved by the
manufacturer for continuous operation.
Required fans must meet specific capacity and sound
ratings.
Fans and other components exposed to untempered
outdoor air must be approved for such use.
Carbon Monoxide alarms must conform to CAN/CGA
6.19-M “Residential Carbon Monoxide Alarming Devices”.
Choosing Brushless DC motors for fans and properly
selecting the furnace fan speed to distribute ventila-
tion air will significantly reduce the fan energy used for
ventilation.
E4
SYSTEM OPTIONS
VARIATIONS
ADD AN OUTDOOR-AIR SUPPLY DUCT COUPLED TO A
FORCED AIR HEATING SYSTEM - NBC Options A and E
upgrade system performance by adding an outdoor air
intake duct connected to the furnace return duct. An
appropriately sized outdoor air intake supply duct will
provide more uniform distribution of outdoor air and
reduced likelihood of cold drafts causing occupant dis-
comfort. The temperature of the mixture of house and
outdoor air entering the forced air heating system at the
winter design condition must be warmer than 15oC un-
less the manufacturer of the forced air heating system
specifically allows lower mixed air temperatures.
NBC VENTILATION SYSTEM OPTION A - NBC Option A uses
a single speed PV fan and requires use of some supple-
mental exhaust fans
NBC VENTILATION SYSTEM OPTION E - NBC Option E uses
a PV fan with a speed control that operates the PV fan
at the Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity on low speed
and at an exhaust rate of at least 2.5 times the mini-
mum Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity on high speed,
allowing it to meet the principal exhaust flow require-
ments and the supplemental exhaust requirements
of the kitchen and all bathrooms, without requiring
additional or supplemental exhaust fans.
ADD AN OUTDOOR-AIR SUPPLY FAN - Another variation is
to install an auxiliary supply fan in the outdoor air sup-
ply duct described above to further improve control over
the supply and distribution of ventilation air.
 SYSTEM OPTIONS
Exhaust-Only Ventilation, Distribution by a Forced Air Heating System
1 |COMBUSTION APPLIANCE
REQUIREMENTS
w fuel-fired fireplaces must be of the direct-vented
type
w other fuel-fired space-heating for water-heat-
ing appliances must be either direct-vented or
mechanically-vented types
w solid-fuel-fired combustion appliances
(e.g., wood stoves) are not permitted
2| CO ALARM
REQUIREMENTS
w install a carbon monoxide alarms in or near
bedrooms of dwelling units with
• fuel-fired space- and/or water-heating appliances
installed in the dwelling unit or in connected spaces
• attached garages
3| SOIL GAS MITIGATION
REQUIREMENTS
w provide make-up air for each exhaust device
other than Principal Ventilation Fan operating
at its Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity if soil
gas is deemed to be a problem. Installation of a
sub-slab depressurization system may be an
acceptable alternative to the authority having
jurisdiction
4| MAKE-UP AIR
REQUIREMENTS
w make-up air fan must be controlled to operate
when the device served operates
w make-up air heated to at least 12 C unless deliv-
ered to a normally unoccupied area
w make-up air fan and heater designated for han-
dling untempered outdoor air
w sound ratings for make-up air fans with less than
1 meter between themselves and visible interior
of bathrooms must be less than 2.5 sones CSA-
C260 or 3.5 sones HVI 915
5|SUPPLY AIR INTAKE AND
EXHAUST OUTLET REQUIREMENTS
w locate outdoor air intakes well away from con-
tamination sources (e.g., automobile exhaust,
building exhaust) and at least 900 mm from
combustion appliance vents, oil fill pipes, gas
meters, etc.
w outdoor air intakes must be accessible for ser-
vice
w label outdoor air intake hoods for easy
identification
w exhaust ducts must not discharge into enclosed
spaces
6|PRINCIPAL VENTILATION
FAN REQUIREMENTS
w centrally located manual switch labelled “Ventila-
tion Fan” activates Principal Ventilation System
exhaust fan
w sound ratings for Principal ventilation fans with
less than 1 meter between themselves and
visible interior of rooms other than unfinished
basements, furnace rooms, utility rooms and
attics must be less than 2.0 sones CSA-C260 or
2.5 sones HVI 915
7|SUPPLEMENTAL
REQUIREMENTS
EXHAUST
w locate supplemental exhaust fan intakes (except
range hood) in wall at least 2 meters above the
floor or in ceiling.
w 50 L/s (105 cfm) supplemental exhaust is
required from kitchens unless:
•the only Principal Ventilation Fan exhausts intake is in
the kitchen,
OR
• the Principal Ventilation Fan serves kitchen and has a
manual control in the kitchen that increases the rate
of exhaust to at least 2.5 times the minimum Normal
Operating Exhaust Capacity.
w 25 L/s (50 cfm) supplemental exhaust is re-
quired from bathrooms not served by Principal
E5
 SYSTEM OPTIONS

Exhaust-Only Ventilation, Distribution by a Forced Air Heating System

Ventilation Fan exhaust

w Supplemental exhaust fans must be controlled
10|NATURAL
VENTILATION
w provide opening windows for natural ventilation
by manual switch in each room served
to each habitable space
w Sound ratings for supplemental exhaust fans
with less than 1 meter between themselves and OR
visible interior of bathrooms must be less than
2.5 sones CSA-C260 or 3.5 sones HVI 915 w provide mechanical ventilation of at least 1.0
ACH, or at the air change rates in NBC Table

8|AIR DISTRIBUTION
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
9.32.2.3 if space is air-conditioned

w forced air distribution system circulation fans

must 11|MISCELLANEOUS
REQUIREMENTS
w Ventilation equipment in unheated spaces
• move at least 5 times the actual Normal Operating
Exhaust Capacity installed to avoid condensation on fans and mo-
• operate automatically when the Principal Ventilation tors as per manufacturer’s instructions. Insulate
System exhaust fan operates exhaust ducts in unheated spaces to RSI 0.5 (R
OR 2.8)

• be equipped with a control that automatically activates

the circulation fan at user-selected intervals
w Minimum allowable mixed air temperature enter-
ing the furnace is the lesser of 15oC and the
minimum allowed by the furnace manufacturer
w Supplemental exhaust fans must be controlled
by manual switch in each room served

|
9 DUCT REQUIREMENTS
VENTILATION SYSTEM
w outdoor air supply ducts directly connected to
furnace return plenums must be connected
downstream of all return branch ducts and at
least 3 m (10 ft.) upstream of furnace unless
connected through an acceptable mixing device
w equip all exhaust air intakes located within 3
meters horizontally of a range with a readily
serviceable grease filter at the intake end
w size ventilation system ductwork using NBC
Tables 9.32.3.11.A. and B. or Section 9.33
w insulate ducts carrying untempered outdoor air
through heated spaces or exhaust air through
unheated spaces to at least RSI 0.5 (R 2.8)

E6
 SYSTEM OPTIONS

Exhaust-Only Ventilation, Distribution by a Forced Air Heating System

Damper or
bird screen
at outside
wall

Minimum
100 mm
(4”) above
finished grade

Above snow line and

minimum 450 mm (18”)
above finished grade

E7

HRV/ERV Used in Conjunction
with a Forced Air Heating System
See NBC Ventilation System Options B and F
APPLICATION
These systems are suitable for all dwelling units with
forced air heating.
SYSTEM CHARACTERISTICS
w HRV/ERV pre-heats outdoor air, reducing heating costs
and improving occupant comfort
w HRV/ERV includes supply and exhaust fans and some
controls
w HRV/ERV filters and core require routine maintenance
w HRV/ERVs designed to operate with balanced airflows
do not require additional makeup air when operating
on high speed to meet kitchen and bathroom exhaust.
w May cost more to install than systems without heat
recovery but the cost to heat ventilation air will be
reduced.
w HVI certified performance and design data is readily
available for many HRV/ERVs
w An HRV/ERV with a high speed/low speed control can
meet both principal exhaust flow requirements and
supplemental exhaust requirements
VENTILATION AIR SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
An HRV/ERV draws exhaust air from the kitchen and/or
bathrooms and/or other central location and supplies
outdoor air to the forced air heating system return air
plenum. The forced air system circulation fan operates
whenever the HRV/ERV is on. Outdoor air and house air
are mixed and distributed throughout the house by the
forced air system circulation fan which must supply air
to each bedroom, any storey without a bedroom (includ-
ing basements and heated crawlspaces) and if there is
no storey without a bedroom, to the principal living area.
The temperature of the mixture of house and outdoor
air entering the forced air heating system at the winter
design condition must be warmer than 15oC unless the
manufacturer of the forced air heating system specifi-
cally allows colder mixed air temperatures.
E8
SYSTEM OPTIONS
SUPPLEMENTAL EXHAUST
Supplemental exhaust of at least 50 L/s is required from
each kitchen unless:
w the HRV/ERV exhaust fan only draws exhaust air from
the kitchen
OR
w the HRV/ERV can be switched to an exhaust rate of
at least 2.5 times the minimum Normal Operating
Exhaust Capacity for the dwelling unit, in which case
the HRV/ERV exhaust fan can serve the kitchen and
other spaces without requiring supplemental kitchen
exhaust.
Supplemental exhaust of at least 25 L/s is required from
any bathrooms not connected to the HRV/ERV.
MAKEUP AIR REQUIREMENTS
Make-up air systems are required for all exhaust de-
vices other than the principal ventilation fan operating
at its Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity if:
w soil gas is deemed to be a problem
OR
w fuel-fired space- and/or water-heating appliances
other than direct-vented and/or power-vented types
and/or solid-fuel-fired appliances are installed in the
dwelling unit.
Makeup air must be tempered to 12oC or warmer before
being introduced into occupied areas of the house or
into a supply duct system.
A two speed HRV/ERV designed to always operate with
balanced airflows does not require makeup air even
when meeting both kitchen and bathroom exhaust
requirements. However, HRV/ERVs do not eliminate the
address the need for make-up air for other devices that
exhaust air from the dwelling.
 SYSTEM OPTIONS
HRV/ERV Used in Conjunction with a Forced Air Heating System
CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS
Carbon monoxide alarms are required in or near the bed-
rooms in all dwelling units with fuel-burning appliances,
attached to a storage garage or attached to a service
room in which a fuel burning appliance is installed.
Carbon monoxide alarms are also required in each room
with a solid-fuel burning appliance. Carbon monoxide
alarms may be either hard-wired or battery-operated.
CONTROLS
A centrally located manual switch labelled “Ventilation
Fan” operates HRV/ERV at the Normal Operating Exhaust
Capacity. The forced air system circulation fan is con-
trolled to operate whenever the HRV/ERV is operated.
A manual fan control switch is required in each room
served by a supplemental exhaust fan. Where the
kitchen supplemental exhaust requirement is met by
the HRV/ERV, the control in the kitchen must be labelled
“Kitchen Exhaust”.
The HRV/ERV and supplemental exhaust fans may also
be activated by automatic controls (e.g., dehumidi-
stats), provided the manual controls will operate the
fans regardless of the setting of the automatic controls
and the fans do not operate when all controls are in the
off position.
Make-up air systems operate automatically when the
device they serve is operated.
BASIC COMPONENTS SPECIFICATION
HRV/ERV performance certified to CAN/CSA-C439, “Rating
the Performance of Heat/Energy Recovery Ventilators”.
Other required fans must meet specific capacity and
sound ratings.
Fans and other components exposed to untempered
outdoor air must be approved for such use.
Carbon Monoxide alarms must conform to CAN/CGA
6.19-M “Residential Carbon Monoxide Alarming Devices”.
Choosing Brushless DC motors for fans and properly
selecting the furnace fan speed to distribute ventila-
tion air can significantly reduce the fan energy used for
ventilation.
VARIATIONS
NBC VENTILATION SYSTEM OPTION B - NBC Option B
uses a single speed HRV/ERV with an airflow capacity
equal to the Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity. The
HRV/ERV may draw exhaust air from specific rooms in
the house or from the furnace return duct. In either case,
some supplemental exhaust fans are required. If the
HRV/ERV supply and exhaust ducts are both connected
to the forced air system return duct, the exhaust duct
must be connected upstream of the supply duct.
NBC VENTILATION SYSTEM OPTION F - NBC Option F uses
a multi-speed HRV/ERVwith controls that operate the
HRV/ERV at the Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity on
low speed and at an exhaust rate of at least 2.5 times
the minimum Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity on
high speed. The HRV/ERV draws exhaust air from the
kitchen and/or bathrooms, meeting the principal ex-
haust flow requirements and the supplemental exhaust
requirements of the connected rooms, without requiring
additional exhaust fans.
E9
 SYSTEM OPTIONS

HRV/ERV Used in Conjunction with a Forced Air Heating System

|COMBUSTION APPLIANCE
1 REQUIREMENTS |SUPPLY AIR INTAKE AND
5 EXHAUST OUTLET REQUIREMENTS
w provide make-up air for each exhaust device oth- w locate outdoor air intakes well away from con-
er than Principal Ventilation Fan operating at its tamination sources (e.g., automobile exhaust,
Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity if non-solid- building exhaust) and at least 900 mm from
fuel burning appliances other than direct-vented combustion appliance vents, oil fill pipes, gas
and mechanically vented types are installed meters, etc.
w outdoor air intakes must be accessible for ser-

2| CO ALARM
REQUIREMENTS
w install a carbon monoxide alarm in each room
vice
w label outdoor air intake hoods for easy identifica-

containing a solid-fuel burning appliance tion

w exhaust ducts must not discharge into enclosed
w install a carbon monoxide alarm in or near bed-
rooms of dwelling units with spaces
• fuel-fired space- and/or water-heating appliances
installed in the dwelling unit or in connected spaces
• attached garages
|HRV/ERV
6 REQUIREMENTS
w centrally located manual switch labelled “Ventila-

3| SOIL GAS MITIGATION

REQUIREMENTS
w provide make-up air for each exhaust device
other than HRV/ERV operating at its Normal Op-
erating Exhaust Capacity if soil gas is deemed to
be a problem. Installation of a sub-slab depres-
surization system may be an acceptable alterna-
tive to the authority having jurisdiction
tion Fan” activates HRV/ERV and furnace circula-
tion fan
w HRV/ERVs providing one or more ventilation
system requirement must be tested in accor-
dance with CAN\CSA-C439 and have better a low
temperature reduction factor of better than 50%.
w provide condensate drain as per manufacturer’s
recommendations, otherwise install a 1/2 inch

4|MAKE-UP AIR drain, sloped for flow, complete with a trap or

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS condensate pump
w make-up air fan must be controlled to operate w installation must follow all start-up procedures
when the device served operates recommended by manufacturer including air-
w make-up air heated to at least 12 C unless deliv-
flow determination and balancing
ered to a normally unoccupied area
w make-up air fan and heater designated for han-
dling untempered outdoor air
w sound ratings for make-up air fans with less than
1 meter between themselves and visible interior
of bathrooms must be less than 2.5 sones CSA-
C260 or 3.5 sones HVI 915

E10
 SYSTEM OPTIONS

HRV/ERV Used in Conjunction with a Forced Air Heating System

| SUPPLEMENTAL EXHAUST
7 REQUIREMENTS
w locate supplemental exhaust fan intakes (except
9|VENTILATION
REQUIREMENTS
SYSTEM DUCT

w HRV/ERV outdoor air supply ducts directly con-

range hood) in wall at least 2 meters above the
floor or in ceiling.
w 50 L/s (105 cfm) supplemental exhaust is
required from kitchens unless:
•the only HRV/ERV exhausts intake is in the
kitchen,
OR
• the HERV/ERV exhaust serves the kitchen and has a
manual control in the kitchen that increases the rate
of exhaust to at least 2.5 times the minimum Normal
Operating Exhaust Capacity.
nected to furnace return plenums must be con-
nected downstream of all return branch ducts
and at least 3 m (10 ft.) upstream of furnace
unless connected through an acceptable mixing
device
w equip all exhaust air intakes located within 3
meters horizontally of a range with a readily
serviceable grease filter at the intake end
w size ventilation system ductwork using NBC
Tables 9.32.3.11.A. and B. or Section 9.33
w insulate ducts carrying untempered outdoor air

w 25 L/s (50 cfm) supplemental exhaust is re-

quired from bathrooms not served by HRV/ERV
exhaust
w Supplemental exhaust fans must be controlled
10 VENTILATION
by manual switch in each room served
w Sound ratings for supplemental exhaust fans
with less than 1 meter between themselves and
visible interior of bathrooms must be less than
2.5 sones CSA-C260 or 3.5 sones HVI 915
through heated spaces or exhaust air through
unheated spaces to at least RSI 0.5 (R 2.8)
| NATURAL
w provide opening windows for natural ventilation
to each habitable space
OR
w provide mechanical ventilation of at least 1.0
ACH, or at the air change rates in Table 9.32.2.3 if

8| AIR DISTRIBUTION
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
space is air-conditioned

11|MISCELLANEOUS
w forced air distribution system circulation fans
must REQUIREMENTS
• move at least 5 times the actual Normal Operating w Ventilation equipment in unheated spaces
Exhaust Capacity
installed to avoid condensation on fans and mo-
• operate automatically when the HRV/ERV operates
tors as per manufacturer’s instructions
w Minimum allowable mixed air temperature enter-
ing the furnace is the lesser of 15oC and the
minimum allowed by the furnace manufacturer
w Supplemental exhaust fans must be controlled
by manual switch in each room served

E11
 SYSTEM OPTIONS

HRV/ERV Used in Conjunction with a Forced Air Heating System

Damper or
bird screen
at outside
wall

Minimum
100 mm
(4”) above
finished grade

Above snow line and

minimum 450 mm (18”)
above finished grade

E12
 SYSTEM OPTIONS
Fully Ducted HRV/ERV
Same as NBC Ventilation System Option D
APPLICATION
These systems are suitable for all dwelling units, and
are considered to be the best option for houses that do
not have forced air heating.
SYSTEM CHARACTERISTICS
w HRV/ERV pre-heats outdoor air, reducing heating
costs and improving occupant comfort
w HRV/ERV includes supply and exhaust fans and some
controls
w HRV/ERV filters and core require routine mainte-
nance
w HRV/ERVs designed to operate with balanced airflows
do not require additional makeup air when operat-
ing on high speed to meet kitchen and bathroom
exhaust.
w May cost more to install than systems without heat
recovery but the cost to heat ventilation air will be
reduced.
w An HRV/ERV with a high speed/low speed control can
meet both principal exhaust flow requirements and
supplemental exhaust requirements.
w HVI certified performance and design data is readily
available for many HRV/ERVs.
VENTILATION AIR SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
An HRV/ERV draws exhaust air from the kitchen, bath-
rooms and/or other central location and supplies out-
door air through a small diameter duct system to each
bedroom, to any storey without a bedroom (including
basements and heated crawlspaces) and, if there is no
storey without a bedroom, to the principal living area.
SUPPLEMENTAL EXHAUST
Supplemental exhaust of at least 50 L/s is required
from each kitchen unless:
w the HRV/ERV exhaust fan only draws exhaust air from
the kitchen
OR
w the HRV/ERV can be switched to an exhaust rate of
at least 2.5 times the minimum Normal Operating
Exhaust Capacity for the dwelling unit, in which case
the HRV/ERV exhaust fan can serve the kitchen and
other spaces without requiring supplemental kitchen
exhaust.
Supplemental exhaust of at least 25 L/s is required
from any bathrooms not connected to the HRV/ERV.
MAKEUP AIR REQUIREMENTS
Make-up air systems are required for all exhaust de-
vices other than the principal ventilation fan operating
at its Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity if:
w soil gas is deemed to be a problem
OR
w fuel-fired space- and/or water-heating appliances
other than direct-vented and/or power-vented types
and/or solid-fuel-fired appliances are installed in the
dwelling unit.
Makeup air must be tempered to 12oC or warmer before
being introduced into occupied areas of the house or
into a supply duct system.
A two speed HRV/ERV designed to always operate with
balanced airflows does not require makeup air even
when meeting both kitchen and bathroom exhaust
requirements. However, HRV/ERVs do not eliminate the
address the need for make-up air for other devices that
exhaust air from the dwelling.
E13
 SYSTEM OPTIONS

Fully Ducted HRV/ERV

CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS VARIATIONS

Carbon monoxide alarms are required in or near the bed- SINGLE-SPEED HRV - Use a single speed HRV/ERV
rooms in all dwelling units with fuel-burning appliances, with an airflow capacity equal to the Normal Operating
attached to a storage garage or attached to a service Exhaust Capacity. The HRV/ERV may draw exhaust air
room in which a fuel burning appliance is installed. from either the kitchen or from one or more bathrooms.
Carbon monoxide alarms are also required in each room In either case, some supplemental exhaust fans are
with a solid-fuel burning appliance. Carbon monoxide required.
alarms may be either hard-wired or battery-operated. MULTI-SPEED HRV/ERV - Use a multi speed HRV/ERV
able to operate at both the Normal Operating Exhaust
CONTROLS Capacity and at least 2.5 times the minimum Normal
A centrally located manual switch labelled “Ventilation
Operating Exhaust Capacity. Exhaust connections to the
Fan” operates HRV/ERV at the Normal Operating Exhaust
kitchen and/or one or more bathrooms enable it to meet
Capacity.
principal ventilation system requirements and some or
A manual fan control switch is required in each room all supplemental exhaust requirements for dwelling unit.
served by a supplemental exhaust fan. Where the This option eliminates the need for makeup air for any
kitchen supplemental exhaust requirement is met by ventilation system components.
the HRV/ERV, the control in the kitchen must be labelled
NBC VENTILATION SYSTEM OPTION C – Dedicated Supply
“Kitchen Exhaust”.
and Exhaust Systems without Heat Recovery
The HRV/ERV and supplemental exhaust fans may also
Like this option, NBC Option C has dedicated supply and
be activated by automatic controls (e.g., dehumidi-
exhaust ductwork but rather than using the packaged
stats), provided the manual controls will operate the
fans and heat exchange core of an HRV/ERV to move
fans regardless of the setting of the automatic controls
and condition ventilation air, NBC Option C uses a heater
and the fans do not operate when all controls are in the
(electric or hydronic) to condition supply air during cold
off position.
weather, and separate fans are selected and installed
Make-up air systems operate automatically when the to provide supply and exhaust airflows. The mixture
device they serve is operated. of house and outdoor air must be tempered to 12oC or
warmer before being introduced into occupied areas of
BASIC COMPONENTS SPECIFICATION the dwelling unit
HRV/ERV performance certified to CAN/CSA-C439, “Rat-
ing the Performance of Heat/Energy Recovery Ventila-
tors”.
Other required fans must meet specific capacity and
sound ratings.
Fans and other components exposed to untempered
outdoor air must be approved for such use.
Carbon Monoxide alarms must conform to CAN/CGA
6.19-M “Residential Carbon Monoxide Alarming Devices”.
Choosing HRV/ERV with Brushless DC motors for fans
will reduce the fan energy used for ventilation.

E14
 SYSTEM OPTIONS

Fully Ducted HRV/ERV

1 |COMBUSTION APPLIANCE
REQUIREMENTS
w provide make-up air for each exhaust device
5|SUPPLY AIR INTAKE AND
EXHAUST OUTLET REQUIREMENTS
w locate outdoor air intakes well away from con-
other than HRV/ERV operating at its Normal tamination sources (e.g., automobile exhaust,
Operating Exhaust Capacity if non-solid-fuel building exhaust) and at least 900 mm from
burning appliances other than direct-vented and combustion appliance vents, oil fill pipes, gas
mechanically vented types are installed meters, etc.
w outdoor air intakes must be accessible for ser-

2| CO ALARM
REQUIREMENTS
w install a carbon monoxide alarm in each room
vice
w label outdoor air intake hoods for easy identifica-

containing a solid-fuel burning appliance tion

w install a carbon monoxide alarm in or near bed- w exhaust ducts must not discharge into enclosed

rooms of dwelling units with spaces

6|HRV/ERV
• fuel-fired space- and/or water-heating appliances
installed in the dwelling unit or in connected spaces
• attached garages REQUIREMENTS
w centrally located manual switch labelled “Ventila-

3| SOIL GAS MITIGATION

REQUIREMENTS
w provide make-up air for each exhaust device
other than HRV/ERV operating at its Normal Op-
erating Exhaust Capacity if soil gas is deemed to
be a problem. Installation of a sub-slab depres-
surization system may be an acceptable alterna-
tive to the authority having jurisdiction
tion Fan” activates HRV/ERV
w HRV/ERVs providing one or more ventilation sys-
tem requirement must be tested in accordance
with CAN\CSA-C439 and have a low temperature
reduction factor of better than 50%.
w provide condensate drain as per manufacturer’s
recommendations, otherwise install a 1/2 inch
drain, sloped for flow, complete with a trap or

4|MAKE-UP AIR SYSTEM

REQUIREMENTS
w make-up air fan must be controlled to operate
condensate pump
w installation must follow all start-up procedures
recommended by manufacturer including air-
when the device served operates flow determination and balancing
w make-up air heated to at least 12 C unless deliv-
ered to a normally unoccupied area
w make-up air fan and heater designated for han-
dling untempered outdoor air
w sound ratings for make-up air fans with less than
1 meter between themselves and visible interior
of bathrooms must be less than 2.5 sones CSA-
C260 or 3.5 sones HVI 915

E15
 SYSTEM OPTIONS

Fully Ducted HRV/ERV

| SUPPLEMENTAL EXHAUST
7 REQUIREMENTS |VENTILATION SYSTEM
9 DUCT REQUIREMENTS
w locate supplemental exhaust fan intakes (except w equip all exhaust air intakes located within 3
range hood) in wall at least 2 meters above the meters horizontally of a range with a readily
floor or in ceiling serviceable grease filter at the intake end
w 50 L/s (105 cfm) supplemental exhaust is w size ventilation system ductwork using NBC
required from kitchens unless: Tables 9.32.3.11.A. and B. or Section 9.33
• the only HRV/ERV exhausts intake is in the kitchen, w insulate ducts carrying untempered outdoor air

OR through heated spaces or exhaust air through

unheated spaces to at least RSI 0.5 (R 2.8)
• the HRV/ERV exhaust serves the kitchen and has a

10|NATURAL
manual control in the kitchen that increases the rate
of exhaust to at least 2.5 times the minimum Normal
Operating Exhaust Capacity. VENTILATION
w provide opening windows for natural ventilation
w 25 L/s (50 cfm) supplemental exhaust is re-
quired from bathrooms not served by HRV/ERV to each habitable space
exhaust OR
w Supplemental exhaust fans must be controlled
w provide mechanical ventilation of at least 1.0
by manual switch in each room served
ACH, or at the air change rates in NBC Table
w Sound ratings for supplemental exhaust fans 9.32.2.3 if space is air-conditioned
with less than 1 meter between themselves and
visible interior of bathrooms must be less than
2.5 sones CSA-C260 or 3.5 sones HVI 915 11|MISCELLANEOUS
REQUIREMENTS
w Door under-cuts (the greater of 1 mm/l/s and 15

8| AIR DISTRIBUTION
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
w ERV/HRV supplies outdoor air directly to each
mm) or transfer grilles allow air movement from
supply to exhaust grilles
w Ventilation equipment in unheated spaces
bedroom, to any storey without a bedroom, and
installed to avoid condensation on fans and mo-
if there is no storey without a bedroom, sup-
tors as per manufacturer’s instructions
ply to or exhaust from the principal living area.
If exhaust is used, the HRV/ERV exhaust must
not serve more than two other intakes in other
rooms
w Outdoor air supply outlets are located in ceiling
or wall at least 2 meters above the floor and
direct air across the ceiling. Air supplies have
diffusers with adjustable balance stops or acces-
sible dampers with locks and position indicators.

E16
 BUILDER SUMMARY

Fully Ducted HRV/ERV

Damper or
bird screen
at outside
wall

12
Minimum
100 mm
(4”) above
finished grade

11
Above snow line and
minimum 450 mm (18”)
above finished grade

E17

Exhaust-Only
with a Purpose Built Air Circulation System
Not illustrated in the Appendix to NBC 9.32
APPLICATION
These systems may find application in dwelling units
that do not a have forced air heating system. Dwelling
using these system configurations must have:
w make-up air for exhaust devices or an active soil gas
mitigation system if soil gas is deemed to be a prob-
lem
Dwelling using these system configurations must not
have:
w solid-fuel-burning appliances
w any fireplaces except the direct-vented type
w fuel-fired space- and/or water-heating appliances
except direct-vented and power-vented types
SYSTEM CHARACTERISTICS
w Does not easily include energy recovery.
w Generally not operated very much by occupants
w May cause cool drafts that affect occupant comfort
during cold weather
w Suitable for applications without forced air heating
where simplicity of equipment and maintenance are
important
VENTILATION AIR SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
The principal ventilation fan exhausts from the kitchen
and/or bathrooms and/or other location(s). Outdoor air
to replace exhaust air is drawn in through the building
envelope.
A purpose built air circulation fan and duct system circu-
lates house air to each bedroom, to any storey without
a bedroom (including basements and heated crawlspac-
es) and, if there is no storey without a bedroom, to the
principal living area unless the principal ventilation fan
exhausts air from the principal living area.
The air circulation system must have a rated airflow ca-
pacity of at least five times the actual Normal Operating
Exhaust Capacity of the Principal Ventilation Fan.
E18
BUILDER SUMMARY
SUPPLEMENTAL EXHAUST
Supplemental exhaust of at least 50 L/s is required from
each kitchen unless:
w the principal ventilation system exhaust fan only
draws exhaust air from the kitchen
OR
w the principal ventilation system exhaust fan can be
switched to an exhaust rate of at least 2.5 times the
minimum Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity for
the dwelling unit, in which case the principal ventila-
tion system exhaust fan can serve the kitchen and
other spaces without requiring supplemental kitchen
exhaust.
Supplemental exhaust of at least 25 L/s is required from
any bathrooms not connected to the principal ventila-
tion system exhaust fan.
MAKEUP AIR REQUIREMENTS
Make-up air systems are required for all exhaust de-
vices other than the principal ventilation fan operating
at its Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity if soil gas is
deemed to be a problem.
Makeup air must be tempered to 12oC or warmer before
being introduced into occupied areas of the house or
into a supply duct system.
CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS
Carbon monoxide alarms are required in or near the bed-
rooms in all dwelling units with fuel-burning appliances,
attached to a storage garage or attached to a service
room in which a fuel burning appliance is installed.
Carbon monoxide alarms are also required in each room
with a solid-fuel burning appliance. Carbon monoxide
alarms may be either hard-wired or battery-operated.
 BUILDER SUMMARY
Exhaust-Only with a Purpose Built Air Circulation System
CONTROLS
A centrally located manual switch labelled “Ventila-
tion Fan” operates principal exhaust fan at the Normal
Operating Exhaust Capacity. The air distribution system
fan is controlled to operate whenever principal exhaust
fan is operated, or alternately the air distribution system
can be equipped with a control that automatically oper-
ates its fan at user-selected time intervals.
A manual fan control switch is required in each room
served by a supplemental exhaust fan. Where the
kitchen supplemental exhaust requirement is met by
the principal exhaust fan, the control in the kitchen must
be labelled “Kitchen Exhaust”.
Principal exhaust fans and supplemental exhaust fans
may also be activated by automatic controls (e.g., dehu-
midistats), provided the manual controls will operate the
fans regardless of the setting of the automatic controls
and the fans do not operate when all controls are in the
off position.
Make-up air systems must operate automatically when
the device they serve is operated.
BASIC COMPONENTS SPECIFICATION
The principal ventilation fan must be approved by the
manufacturer for continuous operation.
Required fans must meet specific capacity and sound
ratings.
Fans and other components exposed to untempered
outdoor air must be approved for such use.
Carbon Monoxide alarms must conform to CAN/CGA
6.19-M “Residential Carbon Monoxide Alarming Devices”.
Choosing Brushless DC motors for fans will significantly
reduce the fan energy used for ventilation.
VARIATIONS
ADD AN OUTDOOR-AIR SUPPLY DUCT - Upgrade system
performance by adding an outdoor air intake duct con-
nected to the return side of the circulation fan. An appro-
priately sized outdoor air intake supply duct will provide
more uniform distribution of outdoor air and reduced
likelihood of cold drafts causing occupant discomfort.
The mixture of house and outdoor air must be tempered
to 12oC or warmer before being introduced into living
areas of the dwelling unit.
ADD A SUPPLY FAN TO AN OUTDOOR AIR SUPPLY DUCT
- Installing an auxiliary supply fan in the outdoor air
supply duct described above will further improve control
over the supply and distribution of ventilation air.
SINGLE SPEED PRINCIPAL VENTILATION FAN - Using a
single speed PV and requires use of some supplemental
exhaust fans
TWO SPEED PRINCIPAL VENTILATION FAN - A PV fan with
a speed control that operates the PV fan at the Normal
Operating Exhaust Capacity on low speed and at an
exhaust rate of at least 2.5 times the minimum Normal
Operating Exhaust Capacity on high speed will allow one
fan to meet the principal exhaust flow requirements and
the supplemental exhaust requirements of the kitchen
and all bathrooms, without requiring additional exhaust
fans.
E19
 BUILDER SUMMARY

Exhaust-Only with a Purpose Built Air Circulation System

|COMBUSTION APPLIANCE
1 REQUIREMENTS |SUPPLY AIR INTAKE AND
5 EXHAUST OUTLET REQUIREMENTS
w fuel-fired fireplaces must be of the direct-vented w locate outdoor air intakes well away from con-
type tamination sources (e.g., automobile exhaust,
w other fuel-fired space-heating for water-heat-
building exhaust) and at least 900 mm from
ing appliances must be either direct-vented or combustion appliance vents, oil fill pipes, gas
mechanically-vented types meters, etc.
w outdoor air intakes must be accessible for ser-
w solid-fuel-fired combustion appliances (e.g.,
wood stoves) are not permitted vice
w label outdoor air intake hoods for easy identifica-

2| CO ALARM
REQUIREMENTS
w install a carbon monoxide alarms in or near
tion
w exhaust ducts must not discharge into enclosed
spaces
bedrooms of dwelling units with
• fuel-fired space- and/or water-heating appliances
installed in the dwelling unit or in connected spaces
• attached garages
|PRINCIPAL VENTILATION
6 FAN REQUIREMENTS
w centrally located manual switch labelled “Ventila-

3| SOIL GAS MITIGATION tion Fan” activates Principal Ventilation System

REQUIREMENTS
w provide make-up air for each exhaust device
other than Principal Ventilation Fan operating
at its Normal Operating Exhaust Capacity if soil
gas is deemed to be a problem. Installation of a
sub-slab depressurization system may be an
acceptable alternative to the authority having
jurisdiction
exhaust fan
w sound ratings for Principal ventilation fans with
less than 1 meter between themselves and
visible interior of rooms other than unfinished
basements, furnace rooms, utility rooms and
attics must be less than 2.0 sones CSA-C260 or
2.5 sones HVI 915

| MAKE-UP AIR
4 REQUIREMENTS
w make-up air fan must be controlled to operate
when the device served operates
w make-up air heated to at least 12 C unless deliv-
ered to a normally unoccupied area
w make-up air fan and heater designated for han-
dling untempered outdoor air
w sound ratings for make-up air fans with less than
1 meter between themselves and visible interior
of bathrooms must be less than 2.5 sones CSA-
C260 or 3.5 sones HVI 915

E20
 BUILDER SUMMARY

Exhaust-Only with a Purpose Built Air Circulation System

| SUPPLEMENTAL EXHAUST
7 REQUIREMENTS
w locate supplemental exhaust fan intakes (ex-
9|VENTILATION
REQUIREMENTS
SYSTEM DUCT

w equip all exhaust air intakes located within 3

cept range hood) in wall at least 2 meters above meters horizontally of a range with a readily
the floor or in ceiling. serviceable grease filter at the intake end
w 50 L/s (105 cfm) supplemental exhaust is w size ventilation system ductwork using NBC
required from kitchens unless: Tables 9.32.3.11.A. and B. or Section 9.33
• the only Principal Ventilation Fan exhausts intake is in w insulate ducts carrying untempered outdoor air
the kitchen,
through heated spaces or exhaust air through
OR unheated spaces to at least RSI 0.5 (R 2.8)
• the Principal Ventilation Fan serves kitchen and has a
manual control in the kitchen that increases the rate
of exhaust to at least 2.5 times the minimum Normal
Operating Exhaust Capacity.
10|NATURAL
VENTILATION
w provide opening windows for natural ventilation
w 25 L/s (50 cfm) supplemental exhaust is re- to each habitable space
quired from bathrooms not served by Principal
OR
Ventilation Fan exhaust
w Supplemental exhaust fans must be controlled w provide mechanical ventilation of at least 1.0

by manual switch in each room served ACH, or at the air change rates in NBC Table
9.32.2.3 if space is air-conditioned
w Sound ratings for supplemental exhaust fans
with less than 1 meter between themselves and
visible interior of bathrooms must be less than
2.5 sones CSA-C260 or 3.5 sones HVI 915
11|MISCELLANEOUS
REQUIREMENTS
w Ventilation equipment in unheated spaces

8| AIR DISTRIBUTION installed to avoid condensation on fans and mo-

tors as per manufacturer’s instructions. Insulate
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
exhaust ducts in unheated spaces to RSI 0.5
w forced air distribution system circulation
(R 2.8)
fans must
• move at least 5 times the actual Normal Operating
Exhaust Capacity
• operate automatically when the Principal Ventilation
System exhaust fan operates

OR

w be equipped with a control that automatically

activates the circulation fan at user-selected
intervals
w Supplemental exhaust fans must be controlled
by manual switch in each room served

E21
 BUILDER SUMMARY

Exhaust-Only with a Purpose Built Air Circulation System

Damper or
bird screen
at outside
wall

Minimum
100 mm
(4”) above
finished grade

Above snow line and

minimum 450 mm (18”)
above finished grade

E22