Calculating Long Term Benefits of Efficient Mobile Home Furnaces

Calculating Long Term Benefits of Efficient Mobile Home Furnaces

How SEER Ratings Impact Energy Efficiency in Mobile Homes

Energy efficiency is a crucial consideration in the realm of mobile homes, particularly when assessing the long-term benefits of installing efficient furnaces. Mobile homes, often seen as a cost-effective housing solution, require careful planning and management to ensure that they remain affordable and comfortable for their inhabitants. One of the most significant contributors to energy consumption in these homes is heating, especially in colder climates. Safety standards mandate proper handling of HVAC refrigerants mobile home hvac units knowledge. Therefore, investing in an energy-efficient furnace can yield substantial long-term benefits.


Firstly, let's consider the immediate impact of installing an efficient furnace: reduced energy bills. Mobile homes typically have less insulation compared to traditional houses, making them more susceptible to heat loss. An efficient furnace compensates for this by using less fuel to maintain a warm environment. Over time, this translates into considerable savings on utility bills-a critical factor for many mobile home residents who are budget-conscious.


Beyond financial savings, energy efficiency in furnaces also contributes positively to environmental sustainability. Using less energy means reducing the carbon footprint associated with heating mobile homes. This reduction is essential as we strive towards mitigating climate change impacts and promoting sustainable living practices across all housing types.


Moreover, an efficient furnace can enhance indoor comfort levels significantly. Consistent and reliable heating leads to a more stable indoor temperature, which is vital for the well-being and health of residents. Inadequate heating can lead to uncomfortable living conditions and even health risks during extreme weather conditions.


It's important to evaluate the long-term benefits of these systems comprehensively. While there might be upfront costs involved in purchasing and installing an energy-efficient furnace, these costs are often outweighed by the accumulated savings over several years. Additionally, many regions offer incentives or rebates for upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, further offsetting initial expenses.


Furthermore, investing in energy-efficient technology adds value to mobile homes themselves. Should homeowners decide to sell their property in the future, having modernized systems like an efficient furnace can make it more appealing to potential buyers who are increasingly eco-conscious and financially savvy.


In conclusion, calculating the long-term benefits of efficient mobile home furnaces involves considering not just immediate financial savings but also broader implications such as environmental impact, enhanced comfort levels, and increased property value. As we continue advancing toward more sustainable living practices globally, prioritizing energy efficiency within our housing options remains paramount-ensuring that everyone enjoys both economic benefits and a healthier planet for generations to come.

In the modern world, where energy efficiency and environmental consciousness are becoming increasingly pivotal, mobile home owners are progressively seeking solutions that not only meet their immediate heating needs but also offer long-term benefits in terms of cost savings and sustainability. Mobile home furnaces have evolved significantly over the years, with a marked shift towards systems that prioritize energy efficiency without compromising on performance or comfort.


Efficient mobile home furnaces are designed to optimize fuel use while minimizing waste, thereby reducing both utility bills and carbon footprints. These advanced systems employ innovative technologies such as modulating heat outputs, which adjust the furnace's operation based on the specific heating demands at any given time. This ensures that energy is not wasted by overheating spaces when a lower output would suffice, thus enhancing overall efficiency.


One of the primary long-term benefits of investing in an efficient mobile home furnace is the significant reduction in heating costs. Although these units might come with a higher initial price tag compared to their less efficient counterparts, they often pay for themselves over time through decreased utility bills. The cost savings can be substantial, particularly in regions where winters are harsh and prolonged.


Furthermore, efficient furnaces contribute to improved indoor air quality by incorporating advanced filtration systems that capture dust, allergens, and other particulates more effectively than older models. This aspect is particularly beneficial for mobile homes, where space constraints can exacerbate air quality issues.


Environmental considerations also play a crucial role in the decision to opt for an efficient furnace. By utilizing less fuel and operating more cleanly, these systems help reduce greenhouse gas emissions-a critical factor in combating climate change. For environmentally conscious consumers, this aligns well with broader efforts to live sustainably and responsibly.


In conclusion, while the upfront investment in an efficient mobile home furnace may seem daunting at first glance, the long-term economic and environmental advantages present a compelling case for making this choice. By prioritizing energy efficiency today, homeowners not only enjoy reduced heating costs but also contribute positively to environmental preservation efforts-ensuring comfort does not come at the expense of future generations' well-being.

Industry Surveys Reveal Gap in Energy Knowledge Among Mobile Home Owners

Industry Surveys Reveal Gap in Energy Knowledge Among Mobile Home Owners

In recent years, the issue of energy literacy among mobile home owners has gained considerable attention due to its implications for energy efficiency and sustainability.. Industry surveys consistently reveal a significant gap in energy knowledge within this demographic, highlighting the urgent need for targeted strategies and initiatives aimed at bridging this divide. Mobile homes, often seen as affordable housing options, present unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to energy consumption.

Posted by on 2024-12-29

State Regulators Encourage Mandatory Training for Mobile Home AC Installers

State Regulators Encourage Mandatory Training for Mobile Home AC Installers

Implementing mandatory training programs for mobile home air conditioning (AC) installers is a well-intentioned initiative that state regulators are increasingly advocating for.. The primary aim is to ensure that installers possess the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their tasks safely and efficiently, thereby safeguarding consumer interests and promoting energy efficiency.

Posted by on 2024-12-29

Specialized Trainees Share Challenges of Mobile Home HVAC Equipment Maintenance

Specialized Trainees Share Challenges of Mobile Home HVAC Equipment Maintenance

The future outlook for the field of mobile home HVAC equipment maintenance presents a dynamic landscape marked by both challenges and opportunities.. As specialized trainees share their experiences, it becomes clear that the evolution of this sector is intricately tied to broader technological advancements, environmental concerns, and shifts in consumer expectations. One of the most compelling aspects of this field's future is the rapid pace of technological innovation.

Posted by on 2024-12-29

Nationwide Observations Show Positive Impact of High SEER Units in Mobile Home Communities

Nationwide Observations Show Positive Impact of High SEER Units in Mobile Home Communities

The transition to high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) units in mobile home communities is an encouraging development in the quest for sustainable living.. By enhancing energy efficiency, these units not only reduce environmental impact but also offer significant economic benefits to residents.

Posted by on 2024-12-29

Choosing the Right SEER Rating for Your Mobile Home HVAC System

Calculating the energy savings and cost benefits associated with efficient mobile home furnaces is an essential exercise for homeowners looking to invest in sustainable living. Mobile homes, by their very nature, often face unique challenges in terms of insulation and energy efficiency. Thus, installing an efficient furnace can significantly impact both the environment and your wallet.


Firstly, let's consider energy savings. An efficient mobile home furnace uses less fuel to provide the same level of warmth as a less efficient model. This is primarily because modern furnaces are designed with advanced technologies that allow them to convert more of their fuel into usable heat. As a result, homeowners can expect lower utility bills over time. The initial cost of purchasing and installing an efficient furnace may be higher than opting for a less efficient model, but this expense is typically offset by the subsequent reduction in monthly heating costs.


To quantify these savings, it's important to understand the concept of Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE), which measures how efficiently a furnace converts fuel into heat over the course of a year. A high-efficiency furnace might boast an AFUE rating of 90% or more, meaning it converts 90% of its fuel into heat while only 10% is lost as exhaust. In contrast, older models might have AFUE ratings as low as 60%. By upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace, mobile home owners can potentially reduce their heating costs by up to one-third.


Beyond direct energy savings, there are additional cost benefits associated with upgrading to an efficient mobile home furnace. Many regions offer tax credits or rebates for homeowners who install energy-efficient appliances. These incentives can further alleviate the upfront costs associated with purchasing a new furnace.


Moreover, efficient furnaces often require fewer repairs and have longer lifespans compared to older models due to their superior engineering and design features. This reliability translates into reduced maintenance costs over time-a significant advantage given that unexpected repair bills can quickly add up.


In addition to financial considerations, there are environmental benefits that come from investing in an efficient furnace. Reduced fuel consumption directly correlates with lower greenhouse gas emissions-a critical factor in combating climate change. Homeowners who prioritize sustainability will find satisfaction in knowing that their decision contributes positively towards environmental conservation efforts.


In conclusion, calculating the long-term benefits of investing in an efficient mobile home furnace involves analyzing potential energy savings alongside initial investment costs and available incentives. While upfront expenses may seem daunting at first glance, the cumulative financial returns-paired with environmental advantages-make such investments worthwhile for those seeking sustainable living solutions within mobile homes. As technology continues to advance and awareness around energy efficiency grows, making informed decisions about heating systems becomes ever more crucial for responsible homeownership.

Choosing the Right SEER Rating for Your Mobile Home HVAC System

Factors Influencing SEER Rating Effectiveness in Mobile Homes

In recent years, the global conversation surrounding environmental sustainability has gained significant momentum. As we continue to witness the profound impacts of climate change, there is an urgent need to reassess and innovate in areas that have traditionally been overlooked. One such area is the heating systems used in mobile homes. By exploring the long-term benefits of efficient mobile home furnaces, we can uncover a crucial pathway toward environmental sustainability.


Mobile homes are a popular housing option for millions due to their affordability and flexibility. However, they often lag behind in terms of energy efficiency compared to traditional housing structures. Inefficient heating systems contribute significantly to energy waste and increased carbon emissions. This inefficiency not only burdens the environment but also places a financial strain on homeowners due to higher utility bills.


The transition to efficient mobile home furnaces presents an opportunity for substantial environmental impact reductions. Modern furnaces are designed with advanced technology that maximizes heat output while minimizing energy consumption. These systems use less fuel, which translates directly into reduced greenhouse gas emissions-a critical factor in combating climate change.


Calculating the long-term benefits of these efficient systems involves considering both environmental and economic factors. Environmentally, the reduction in fossil fuel usage means a decrease in carbon footprint for each household equipped with an efficient furnace. Collectively, if adopted on a wide scale, this could lead to significant reductions in national emissions levels.


Economically, while there may be an initial investment cost associated with upgrading to more efficient furnaces, homeowners stand to benefit from lower energy bills over time. These savings can be particularly impactful for low-income families who often reside in mobile homes and are disproportionately affected by high utility costs.


Moreover, widespread adoption of energy-efficient technologies can stimulate job creation within green industries. The manufacturing, installation, and maintenance of these modern heating systems require skilled labor-potentially creating new employment opportunities aligned with sustainable development goals.


In conclusion, investing in efficient mobile home furnaces offers multifaceted long-term benefits that align closely with environmental sustainability objectives. By reducing energy consumption and lowering emissions, these systems represent a practical solution that addresses both ecological concerns and economic challenges faced by homeowners. As we seek innovative ways to mitigate our impact on the planet, embracing such technologies will be essential in paving the way toward a more sustainable future for all.

Comparing SEER Ratings Across Different Mobile Home Cooling Systems

When considering the long-term benefits of installing efficient mobile home furnaces, one cannot overlook the enhanced comfort and air quality that come as part of the package. While energy savings and reduced utility bills often take center stage in discussions about efficient heating systems, the improvements in living conditions they offer also deserve significant attention.


Firstly, an efficient furnace enhances comfort by maintaining a consistent indoor temperature. Older or less efficient models often struggle with this task, leading to noticeable fluctuations in temperature throughout the day. Such variations can make a home feel drafty or overly warm at different times, disrupting daily activities and overall well-being. Efficient furnaces, however, are designed to provide steady heat output, ensuring that each room maintains a uniform temperature that aligns with individual preferences. This consistency not only enhances physical comfort but also contributes to peace of mind during colder months when reliable heating is paramount.


Moreover, modern efficient furnaces are equipped with advanced technologies that can significantly improve indoor air quality-a critical factor for health and well-being. These systems often include superior filtration mechanisms capable of trapping dust, allergens, and other airborne particles more effectively than their older counterparts. By reducing these common pollutants, efficient furnaces help create a cleaner and healthier living environment. This is especially important in mobile homes where space is limited and maintaining good air quality can be more challenging.


In addition to better filtration, many modern furnaces incorporate humidity control features. Proper humidity levels are essential for both comfort and health; too much moisture can lead to mold growth while too little can cause respiratory discomfort and damage wooden furniture or floors. An efficient furnace helps maintain optimal humidity levels automatically, thus preventing such issues before they arise.


Beyond individual health benefits, improved air quality also impacts maintenance costs positively over time. Clean air reduces wear on the furnace itself since there are fewer particulates circulating through its components that could potentially cause damage or inefficiency. As a result, homeowners may find themselves scheduling fewer repairs or replacements-another financial advantage that adds up over the years.


While initial installation might seem like a significant investment compared to conventional options, it's clear that the long-term rewards of choosing an efficient furnace extend beyond mere cost savings on energy bills. The enhanced comfort experienced from stable temperatures combined with superior air quality makes for an inviting home environment where residents can thrive both physically and emotionally.


In conclusion, as we calculate the long-term benefits of efficient mobile home furnaces, it becomes evident that their contribution to enhanced comfort and improved air quality plays a crucial role in maximizing overall value for homeowners. Investing in such systems is not just about financial prudence but also about fostering healthier living spaces where families can enjoy life's simplest pleasures without compromise.

Tips for Maintaining Optimal Performance of High-SEER Rated Systems

In the intricate world of homeownership, financial considerations often take center stage. Among the myriad of decisions that homeowners face, investing in energy-efficient appliances-specifically mobile home furnaces-can offer substantial long-term financial advantages. As we delve into the topic of calculating these benefits, it becomes apparent that efficiency is not just a buzzword; it's a strategic investment.


To begin with, understanding the concept of efficiency is crucial. An efficient furnace consumes less energy to produce the same amount of heat compared to its less efficient counterparts. This translates directly into reduced energy bills-a practical benefit that accumulates over time. For mobile homeowners, who may already be navigating tight budgets, this reduction in monthly expenses can provide significant relief and contribute to overall financial stability.


The initial cost of purchasing an efficient furnace might seem daunting at first glance. However, when viewed through a long-term lens, this upfront investment quickly becomes justified. Energy-efficient models often come with rebates or tax incentives aimed at encouraging environmentally responsible choices. These incentives can significantly offset initial costs, making the transition more financially accessible.


Moreover, efficient furnaces typically boast longer lifespans due to their advanced technology and better build quality. This means homeowners are likely to face fewer repair and replacement costs down the line-a critical factor in calculating long-term savings. By reducing maintenance disruptions and extending service life, these furnaces prove themselves as prudent investments.


Beyond direct savings on utility bills and maintenance costs, efficient mobile home furnaces can also indirectly boost property value. Prospective buyers today are increasingly eco-conscious and are willing to pay a premium for homes equipped with modern, sustainable technologies. Thus, an investment in an efficient furnace could enhance resale value should homeowners decide to move on from their current residence.


Finally, while we focus primarily on financial benefits, it's essential not to overlook the broader impact of environmental sustainability. By consuming less fuel and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, efficient furnaces contribute positively to combating climate change-a cause that resonates with many homeowners today.


In conclusion, while the path towards energy efficiency requires thoughtful consideration and initial investment, the long-term financial advantages for homeowners are compellingly clear. From tangible savings on energy bills and maintenance costs to intangible boosts in property value and environmental stewardship-embracing efficient mobile home furnaces is a decision that pays dividends for years to come.

Prefabricated house in Valencia, Spain.

A modular building is a prefabricated building that consists of repeated sections called modules.[1] Modularity involves constructing sections away from the building site, then delivering them to the intended site. Installation of the prefabricated sections is completed on site. Prefabricated sections are sometimes placed using a crane. The modules can be placed side-by-side, end-to-end, or stacked, allowing for a variety of configurations and styles. After placement, the modules are joined together using inter-module connections, also known as inter-connections. The inter-connections tie the individual modules together to form the overall building structure.[2]

Uses

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Modular home prefab sections to be placed on the foundation

Modular buildings may be used for long-term, temporary or permanent facilities, such as construction camps, schools and classrooms, civilian and military housing, and industrial facilities. Modular buildings are used in remote and rural areas where conventional construction may not be reasonable or possible, for example, the Halley VI accommodation pods used for a BAS Antarctic expedition.[3] Other uses have included churches, health care facilities, sales and retail offices, fast food restaurants and cruise ship construction. They can also be used in areas that have weather concerns, such as hurricanes. Modular buildings are often used to provide temporary facilities, including toilets and ablutions at events. The portability of the buildings makes them popular with hire companies and clients alike. The use of modular buildings enables events to be held at locations where existing facilities are unavailable, or unable to support the number of event attendees.

Construction process

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Construction is offsite, using lean manufacturing techniques to prefabricate single or multi-story buildings in deliverable module sections. Often, modules are based around standard 20 foot containers, using the same dimensions, structures, building and stacking/placing techniques, but with smooth (instead of corrugated) walls, glossy white paint, and provisions for windows, power, potable water, sewage lines, telecommunications and air conditioning. Permanent Modular Construction (PMC) buildings are manufactured in a controlled setting and can be constructed of wood, steel, or concrete. Modular components are typically constructed indoors on assembly lines. Modules' construction may take as little as ten days but more often one to three months. PMC modules can be integrated into site built projects or stand alone and can be delivered with MEP, fixtures and interior finishes.

The buildings are 60% to 90% completed offsite in a factory-controlled environment, and transported and assembled at the final building site. This can comprise the entire building or be components or subassemblies of larger structures. In many cases, modular contractors work with traditional general contractors to exploit the resources and advantages of each type of construction. Completed modules are transported to the building site and assembled by a crane.[4] Placement of the modules may take from several hours to several days. Off-site construction running in parallel to site preparation providing a shorter time to project completion is one of the common selling points of modular construction. Modular construction timeline

Permanent modular buildings are built to meet or exceed the same building codes and standards as site-built structures and the same architect-specified materials used in conventionally constructed buildings are used in modular construction projects. PMC can have as many stories as building codes allow. Unlike relocatable buildings, PMC structures are intended to remain in one location for the duration of their useful life.

Manufacturing considerations

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The entire process of modular construction places significance on the design stage. This is where practices such as Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) are used to ensure that assembly tolerances are controlled throughout manufacture and assembly on site. It is vital that there is enough allowance in the design to allow the assembly to take up any "slack" or misalignment of components. The use of advanced CAD systems, 3D printing and manufacturing control systems are important for modular construction to be successful. This is quite unlike on-site construction where the tradesman can often make the part to suit any particular installation.

Upfront production investment

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The development of factory facilities for modular homes requires significant upfront investment. To help address housing shortages in the 2010s, the United Kingdom Government (via Homes England) invested in modular housing initiatives. Several UK companies (for example, Ilke Homes, L&G Modular Homes, House by Urban Splash, Modulous, TopHat and Lighthouse) were established to develop modular homes as an alternative to traditionally-built residences, but failed as they could not book revenues quickly enough to cover the costs of establishing manufacturing facilities.

IIke Homes opened a factory in Knaresborough, Yorkshire in 2018, and Homes England invested £30m in November 2019,[5] and a further £30m in September 2021.[6] Despite a further fund-raising round, raising £100m in December 2022,[7][8] Ilke Homes went into administration on 30 June 2023,[9][10] with most of the company's 1,150 staff made redundant,[11] and debts of £320m,[12] including £68m owed to Homes England.[13]

In 2015 Legal & General launched a modular homes operation, L&G Modular Homes, opening a 550,000 sq ft factory in Sherburn-in-Elmet, near Selby in Yorkshire.[14] The company incurred large losses as it invested in its factory before earning any revenues; by 2019, it had lost over £100m.[15] Sales revenues from a Selby project, plus schemes in Kent and West Sussex, started to flow in 2022, by which time the business's total losses had grown to £174m.[16] Production was halted in May 2023, with L&G blaming local planning delays and the COVID-19 pandemic for its failure to grow its sales pipeline.[17][18] The enterprise incurred total losses over seven years of £295m.[19]

Market acceptance

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Raines Court is a multi-story modular housing block in Stoke Newington, London, one of the first two residential buildings in Britain of this type. (December 2005)

Some home buyers and some lending institutions resist consideration of modular homes as equivalent in value to site-built homes.[citation needed] While the homes themselves may be of equivalent quality, entrenched zoning regulations and psychological marketplace factors may create hurdles for buyers or builders of modular homes and should be considered as part of the decision-making process when exploring this type of home as a living and/or investment option. In the UK and Australia, modular homes have become accepted in some regional areas; however, they are not commonly built in major cities. Modular homes are becoming increasingly common in Japanese urban areas, due to improvements in design and quality, speed and compactness of onsite assembly, as well as due to lowering costs and ease of repair after earthquakes. Recent innovations allow modular buildings to be indistinguishable from site-built structures.[20] Surveys have shown that individuals can rarely tell the difference between a modular home and a site-built home.[21]

Modular homes vs. mobile homes

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Differences include the building codes that govern the construction, types of material used and how they are appraised by banks for lending purposes. Modular homes are built to either local or state building codes as opposed to manufactured homes, which are also built in a factory but are governed by a federal building code.[22] The codes that govern the construction of modular homes are exactly the same codes that govern the construction of site-constructed homes.[citation needed] In the United States, all modular homes are constructed according to the International Building Code (IBC), IRC, BOCA or the code that has been adopted by the local jurisdiction.[citation needed] In some states, such as California, mobile homes must still be registered yearly, like vehicles or standard trailers, with the Department of Motor Vehicles or other state agency. This is true even if the owners remove the axles and place it on a permanent foundation.[23]

Recognizing a mobile or manufactured home

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A mobile home should have a small metal tag on the outside of each section. If a tag cannot be located, details about the home can be found in the electrical panel box. This tag should also reveal a manufacturing date.[citation needed] Modular homes do not have metal tags on the outside but will have a dataplate installed inside the home, usually under the kitchen sink or in a closet. The dataplate will provide information such as the manufacturer, third party inspection agency, appliance information, and manufacture date.

Materials

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The materials used in modular buildings are of the same quality and durability as those used in traditional construction, preserving characteristics such as acoustic insulation and energy efficiency, as well as allowing for attractive and innovative designs thanks to their versatility.[24] Most commonly used are steel, wood and concrete.[25]

  • Steel: Because it is easily moldable, it allows for innovation in design and aesthetics.
  • Wood: Wood is an essential part of most modular buildings. Thanks to its lightness, it facilitates the work of assembling and moving the prefabricated modules.
  • Concrete: Concrete offers a solid structure that is ideal for the structural reinforcement of permanent modular buildings. It is increasingly being used as a base material in this type of building, thanks to its various characteristics such as fire resistance, energy savings, greater acoustic insulation, and durability.[26]

Wood-frame floors, walls and roof are often utilized. Some modular homes include brick or stone exteriors, granite counters and steeply pitched roofs. Modulars can be designed to sit on a perimeter foundation or basement. In contrast, mobile homes are constructed with a steel chassis that is integral to the integrity of the floor system. Modular buildings can be custom built to a client's specifications. Current designs include multi-story units, multi-family units and entire apartment complexes. The negative stereotype commonly associated with mobile homes has prompted some manufacturers to start using the term "off-site construction."

New modular offerings include other construction methods such as cross-laminated timber frames.[27]

Financing

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Mobile homes often require special lenders.[28]

Modular homes on the other hand are financed as site built homes with a construction loan

Standards and zoning considerations

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Typically, modular dwellings are built to local, state or council code, resulting in dwellings from a given manufacturing facility having differing construction standards depending on the final destination of the modules.[29] The most important zones that manufacturers have to take into consideration are local wind, heat, and snow load zones.[citation needed] For example, homes built for final assembly in a hurricane-prone, earthquake or flooding area may include additional bracing to meet local building codes. Steel and/or wood framing are common options for building a modular home.

Some US courts have ruled that zoning restrictions applicable to mobile homes do not apply to modular homes since modular homes are designed to have a permanent foundation.[citation needed] Additionally, in the US, valuation differences between modular homes and site-built homes are often negligible in real estate appraisal practice; modular homes can, in some market areas, (depending on local appraisal practices per Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice) be evaluated the same way as site-built dwellings of similar quality. In Australia, manufactured home parks are governed by additional legislation that does not apply to permanent modular homes. Possible developments in equivalence between modular and site-built housing types for the purposes of real estate appraisals, financing and zoning may increase the sales of modular homes over time.[30]

CLASP (Consortium of Local Authorities Special Programme)

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The Consortium of Local Authorities Special Programme (abbreviated and more commonly referred to as CLASP) was formed in England in 1957 to combine the resources of local authorities with the purpose of developing a prefabricated school building programme. Initially developed by Charles Herbert Aslin, the county architect for Hertfordshire, the system was used as a model for several other counties, most notably Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire. CLASP's popularity in these coal mining areas was in part because the system permitted fairly straightforward replacement of subsidence-damaged sections of building.

Building strength

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Modular Home being built in Vermont photo by Josh Vignona
Modular home in Vermont

Modular homes are designed to be stronger than traditional homes by, for example, replacing nails with screws, adding glue to joints, and using 8–10% more lumber than conventional housing.[31] This is to help the modules maintain their structural integrity as they are transported on trucks to the construction site. However, there are few studies on the response of modular buildings to transport and handling stresses. It is therefore presently difficult to predict transport induced damage.[1]

When FEMA studied the destruction wrought by Hurricane Andrew in Dade County Florida, they concluded that modular and masonry homes fared best compared to other construction.[32]

CE marking

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The CE mark is a construction norm that guarantees the user of mechanical resistance and strength of the structure. It is a label given by European community empowered authorities for end-to-end process mastering and traceability.[citation needed]

All manufacturing operations are being monitored and recorded:

  • Suppliers have to be known and certified,
  • Raw materials and goods being sourced are to be recorded by batch used,
  • Elementary products are recorded and their quality is monitored,
  • Assembly quality is managed and assessed on a step by step basis,
  • When a modular unit is finished, a whole set of tests are performed and if quality standards are met, a unique number and EC stamp is attached to and on the unit.

This ID and all the details are recorded in a database, At any time, the producer has to be able to answer and provide all the information from each step of the production of a single unit, The EC certification guaranties standards in terms of durability, resistance against wind and earthquakes.[citation needed]

Open modular building

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The term Modularity can be perceived in different ways. It can even be extended to building P2P (peer-to-peer) applications; where a tailored use of the P2P technology is with the aid of a modular paradigm. Here, well-understood components with clean interfaces can be combined to implement arbitrarily complex functions in the hopes of further proliferating self-organising P2P technology. Open modular buildings are an excellent example of this. Modular building can also be open source and green. Bauwens, Kostakis and Pazaitis[33] elaborate on this kind of modularity. They link modularity to the construction of houses.

This commons-based activity is geared towards modularity. The construction of modular buildings enables a community to share designs and tools related to all the different parts of house construction. A socially-oriented endeavour that deals with the external architecture of buildings and the internal dynamics of open source commons. People are thus provided with the tools to reconfigure the public sphere in the area where they live, especially in urban environments. There is a robust socializing element that is reminiscent of pre-industrial vernacular architecture and community-based building.[34]

Some organisations already provide modular housing. Such organisations are relevant as they allow for the online sharing of construction plans and tools. These plans can be then assembled, through either digital fabrication like 3D printing or even sourcing low-cost materials from local communities. It has been noticed that given how easy it is to use these low-cost materials are (for example: plywood), it can help increase the permeation of these open buildings to areas or communities that lack the know-how or abilities of conventional architectural or construction firms. Ergo, it allows for a fundamentally more standardised way of constructing houses and buildings. The overarching idea behind it remains key - to allow for easy access to user-friendly layouts which anyone can use to build in a more sustainable and affordable way.

Modularity in this sense is building a house from different standardised parts, like solving a jigsaw puzzle.

3D printing can be used to build the house.

The main standard is OpenStructures and its derivative Autarkytecture.[35]

Research and development

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Modular construction is the subject of continued research and development worldwide as the technology is applied to taller and taller buildings. Research and development is carried out by modular building companies and also research institutes such as the Modular Building Institute[36] and the Steel Construction Institute.[37]

See also

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  • Affordable housing
  • Alternative housing
  • Commercial modular construction
  • Construction 3D printing
  • Container home
  • Kit house
  • MAN steel house
  • Manufactured housing
  • Modern methods of construction
  • Modular design
  • Portable building
  • Prefabrication
  • Open-source architecture
  • Open source hardware
  • OpenStructures
  • Prefabricated home
  • Relocatable buildings
  • Recreational vehicles
  • Shipping container architecture
  • Stick-built home
  • Tiny house movement
  • Toter

References

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  1. ^ a b Lacey, Andrew William; Chen, Wensu; Hao, Hong; Bi, Kaiming (2018). "Structural Response of Modular Buildings – An Overview". Journal of Building Engineering. 16: 45–56. doi:10.1016/j.jobe.2017.12.008. hdl:20.500.11937/60087.
  2. ^ Lacey, Andrew William; Chen, Wensu; Hao, Hong; Bi, Kaiming (2019). "Review of bolted inter-module connections in modular steel buildings". Journal of Building Engineering. 23: 207–219. doi:10.1016/j.jobe.2019.01.035. S2CID 86540434.
  3. ^ "Halley VI Research Station – British Antarctic Survey". Bas.ac.uk. Retrieved 2016-05-03.
  4. ^ "Why Build Modular?". Modular.org. Retrieved 2016-05-03.
  5. ^ Morby, Aaron (4 November 2019). "Government pumps £30m into modular house builder". Construction Enquirer. Retrieved 14 March 2024.
  6. ^ Morby, Aaron (27 September 2021). "Ilke Homes raises £60m for top 10 house builder plan". Construction Enquirer. Retrieved 14 March 2024.
  7. ^ Morby, Aaron (6 December 2022). "Ilke Homes pulls off £100m record-breaking fund raise". Construction Enquirer. Retrieved 14 March 2024.
  8. ^ O'Connor, Rob (6 December 2022). "ilke Homes announces new £100m investment". Infrastructure Intelligence. Retrieved 14 March 2024.
  9. ^ Gardiner, Joey (30 June 2023). "Ilke Homes sinks into administration with most of firm's 1,100 staff set to lose their jobs". Building. Retrieved 14 March 2024.
  10. ^ Riding, James (30 June 2023). "Modular house builder Ilke Homes enters administration with majority of staff to be made redundant". Inside Housing. Retrieved 14 March 2024.
  11. ^ Morby, Aaron (30 June 2023). "Ilke Homes falls into administration". Construction Enquirer. Retrieved 14 March 2024.
  12. ^ Prior, Grant (25 August 2023). "Ilke Homes went under owing £320m". Construction Enquirer. Retrieved 14 March 2024.
  13. ^ Willmore, James (14 February 2024). "Homes England to lose most of £68.8m it is owed from Ilke Homes following collapse". Inside Housing. Retrieved 14 March 2024.
  14. ^ Dale, Sharon (11 May 2020). "Head of Legal & General modular homes factory reveals plans for its future". Yorkshire Post. Retrieved 20 March 2024.
  15. ^ Morby, Aaron (30 November 2020). "L&G modular homes losses exceed £100m". Construction Enquirer. Retrieved 20 March 2024.
  16. ^ Morby, Aaron (3 October 2022). "L&G modular homes amassed loss deepens to £174m". Construction Enquirer. Retrieved 20 March 2024.
  17. ^ Prior, Grant (4 May 2023). "L&G halts production at modular homes factory". Construction Enquirer. Retrieved 20 March 2024.
  18. ^ Kollewe, Julia (4 May 2023). "Legal & General halts new production at modular homes factory near Leeds". The Guardian.
  19. ^ Morby, Aaron (6 November 2023). "L&G modular homes foray amassed £295m of losses". Construction Enquirer. Retrieved 20 March 2024.
  20. ^ fab, ukporta (19 August 2020). "prefabricated structures". ukportaprefab. Retrieved 4 September 2020.
  21. ^ "Factory-Built Construction and the American Homebuyer: Perceptions and Opportunities" (PDF). Huduser.gov. p. 9. Retrieved 2017-09-10.
  22. ^ Solutions, Dryside Property – Jennifer Mitchell and Magic Web. "Mobile homes vs Manufactured homes vs Modular homes". Drysideproperty.com. Retrieved 2018-03-09.
  23. ^ "HCD Manufactured and Mobile Homes". Hcd.ca.gov.
  24. ^ Métodos modernos de construcción (MMC): Fabricación modular. Upv.es. 2020-10-02 Retrieved 2022-09-08
  25. ^ A guide to the latest modular building construction materials. Hydrodiseno.com. 2021-12-14 Retrieved 2022-09-05
  26. ^ Construcción modular en hormigón: una tendencia al alza (PDF). Andece.org. p. 53. Retrieved 2022-07-06
  27. ^ "Prefabricated Housing Module Advances Wood Research at the University of British Columbia | 2017-05-15T00:00:00 | Perkins + Will News". Archived from the original on 2019-03-31. Retrieved 2019-03-31.
  28. ^ "HUD Financing Manufactured (Mobile) Homes". Portal.hud.gov. Archived from the original on 2016-05-03. Retrieved 2016-05-03.
  29. ^ "Australian Government modular home regulations". Austlii.edu.au. Retrieved 2007-10-21.
  30. ^ "Building Codes for Modular Homes". Modularhomesnetwork.com. Retrieved 2010-08-06.
  31. ^ "Disruptive Development: Modular Manufacturing In Multifamily Housing" (PDF). p. 35. Retrieved 10 September 2017.
  32. ^ "FIA 22, Mitigation Assessment Team Report: Hurricane Andrew in Florida (1993)". Fema.gov.
  33. ^ Bouwens, M., Kostakis, V., & Pazaitis, A. 2019. The Commons Manifesto. University of Westminster Press, London, pg. 24
  34. ^ Bouwens, M., Kostakis, V., & Pazaitis, A. 2019. The Commons Manifesto. University of Westminster Press, London, pg. 25
  35. ^ "Thomas Lommée & Christiane Hoegner - Autarkytecture | z33". Archived from the original on 2014-12-31. Retrieved 2015-01-01.
  36. ^ "Modular Building Institute". Modular.org.
  37. ^ "The Steel Construction Institute (SCI) UK Global Steel Expertise". Steel-sci.com.

34 - "Volumetric modular construction trend gaining groun d". https://www.aa.com.tr/en/corporate-news/volumetric-modular-construction-trend-gaining-ground/2357158 06.09.2021

 

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Sick building syndrome
Specialty Environmental medicine, immunology Edit this on Wikidata

Sick building syndrome (SBS) is a condition in which people develop symptoms of illness or become infected with chronic disease from the building in which they work or reside.[1] In scientific literature, SBS is also known as building-related illness (BRI), building-related symptoms (BRS), or idiopathic environmental intolerance (IEI).

The main identifying observation is an increased incidence of complaints of such symptoms as headache, eye, nose, and throat irritation, fatigue, dizziness, and nausea. The 1989 Oxford English Dictionary defines SBS in that way.[2] The World Health Organization created a 484-page tome on indoor air quality 1984, when SBS was attributed only to non-organic causes, and suggested that the book might form a basis for legislation or litigation.[3]

The outbreaks may or may not be a direct result of inadequate or inappropriate cleaning.[2] SBS has also been used to describe staff concerns in post-war buildings with faulty building aerodynamics, construction materials, construction process, and maintenance.[2] Some symptoms tend to increase in severity with the time people spend in the building, often improving or even disappearing when people are away from the building.[2][4] The term SBS is also used interchangeably with "building-related symptoms", which orients the name of the condition around patients' symptoms rather than a "sick" building.[5]

Attempts have been made to connect sick building syndrome to various causes, such as contaminants produced by outgassing of some building materials, volatile organic compounds (VOC), improper exhaust ventilation of ozone (produced by the operation of some office machines), light industrial chemicals used within, and insufficient fresh-air intake or air filtration (see "Minimum efficiency reporting value").[2] Sick building syndrome has also been attributed to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, an attribution about which there are inconsistent findings.[6]

Signs and symptoms

[edit]
An air quality monitor

Human exposure to aerosols has a variety of adverse health effects.[7] Building occupants complain of symptoms such as sensory irritation of the eyes, nose, or throat; neurotoxic or general health problems; skin irritation; nonspecific hypersensitivity reactions; infectious diseases;[8] and odor and taste sensations.[9] Poor lighting has caused general malaise.[10]

Extrinsic allergic alveolitis has been associated with the presence of fungi and bacteria in the moist air of residential houses and commercial offices.[11] A study in 2017 correlated several inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract with objective evidence of damp-caused damage in homes.[12]

The WHO has classified the reported symptoms into broad categories, including mucous-membrane irritation (eye, nose, and throat irritation), neurotoxic effects (headaches, fatigue, and irritability), asthma and asthma-like symptoms (chest tightness and wheezing), skin dryness and irritation, and gastrointestinal complaints.[13]

Several sick occupants may report individual symptoms that do not seem connected. The key to discovery is the increased incidence of illnesses in general with onset or exacerbation in a short period, usually weeks. In most cases, SBS symptoms are relieved soon after the occupants leave the particular room or zone.[14] However, there can be lingering effects of various neurotoxins, which may not clear up when the occupant leaves the building. In some cases, including those of sensitive people, there are long-term health effects.[15]

Cause

[edit]

ASHRAE has recognized that polluted urban air, designated within the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)'s air quality ratings as unacceptable, requires the installation of treatment such as filtration for which the HVAC practitioners generally apply carbon-impregnated filters and their likes. Different toxins will aggravate the human body in different ways. Some people are more allergic to mold, while others are highly sensitive to dust. Inadequate ventilation will exaggerate small problems (such as deteriorating fiberglass insulation or cooking fumes) into a much more serious indoor air quality problem.[10]

Common products such as paint, insulation, rigid foam, particle board, plywood, duct liners, exhaust fumes and other chemical contaminants from indoor or outdoor sources, and biological contaminants can be trapped inside by the HVAC AC system. As this air is recycled using fan coils the overall oxygenation ratio drops and becomes harmful. When combined with other stress factors such as traffic noise and poor lighting, inhabitants of buildings located in a polluted urban area can quickly become ill as their immune system is overwhelmed.[10]

Certain VOCs, considered toxic chemical contaminants to humans, are used as adhesives in many common building construction products. These aromatic carbon rings / VOCs can cause acute and chronic health effects in the occupants of a building, including cancer, paralysis, lung failure, and others. Bacterial spores, fungal spores, mold spores, pollen, and viruses are types of biological contaminants and can all cause allergic reactions or illness described as SBS. In addition, pollution from outdoors, such as motor vehicle exhaust, can enter buildings, worsen indoor air quality, and increase the indoor concentration of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide.[16] Adult SBS symptoms were associated with a history of allergic rhinitis, eczema and asthma.[17]

A 2015 study concerning the association of SBS and indoor air pollutants in office buildings in Iran found that, as carbon dioxide increased in a building, nausea, headaches, nasal irritation, dyspnea, and throat dryness also rose.[10] Some work conditions have been correlated with specific symptoms: brighter light, for example was significantly related to skin dryness, eye pain, and malaise.[10] Higher temperature is correlated with sneezing, skin redness, itchy eyes, and headache; lower relative humidity has been associated with sneezing, skin redness, and eye pain.[10]

In 1973, in response to the oil crisis and conservation concerns, ASHRAE Standards 62-73 and 62-81 reduced required ventilation from 10 cubic feet per minute (4.7 L/s) per person to 5 cubic feet per minute (2.4 L/s) per person, but this was found to be a contributing factor to sick building syndrome.[18] As of the 2016 revision, ASHRAE ventilation standards call for 5 to 10 cubic feet per minute of ventilation per occupant (depending on the occupancy type) in addition to ventilation based on the zone floor area delivered to the breathing zone.[19]

Workplace

[edit]

Excessive work stress or dissatisfaction, poor interpersonal relationships and poor communication are often seen to be associated with SBS, recent[when?] studies show that a combination of environmental sensitivity and stress can greatly contribute to sick building syndrome.[15][citation needed]

Greater effects were found with features of the psycho-social work environment including high job demands and low support. The report concluded that the physical environment of office buildings appears to be less important than features of the psycho-social work environment in explaining differences in the prevalence of symptoms. However, there is still a relationship between sick building syndrome and symptoms of workers regardless of workplace stress.[20]

Specific work-related stressors are related with specific SBS symptoms. Workload and work conflict are significantly associated with general symptoms (headache, abnormal tiredness, sensation of cold or nausea). While crowded workspaces and low work satisfaction are associated with upper respiratory symptoms.[21] Work productivity has been associated with ventilation rates, a contributing factor to SBS, and there's a significant increase in production as ventilation rates increase, by 1.7% for every two-fold increase of ventilation rate.[22] Printer effluent, released into the office air as ultra-fine particles (UFPs) as toner is burned during the printing process, may lead to certain SBS symptoms.[23][24] Printer effluent may contain a variety of toxins to which a subset of office workers are sensitive, triggering SBS symptoms.[25]

Specific careers are also associated with specific SBS symptoms. Transport, communication, healthcare, and social workers have highest prevalence of general symptoms. Skin symptoms such as eczema, itching, and rashes on hands and face are associated with technical work. Forestry, agriculture, and sales workers have the lowest rates of sick building syndrome symptoms.[26]

From the assessment done by Fisk and Mudarri, 21% of asthma cases in the United States were caused by wet environments with mold that exist in all indoor environments, such as schools, office buildings, houses and apartments. Fisk and Berkeley Laboratory colleagues also found that the exposure to the mold increases the chances of respiratory issues by 30 to 50 percent.[27] Additionally, studies showing that health effects with dampness and mold in indoor environments found that increased risk of adverse health effects occurs with dampness or visible mold environments.[28]

Milton et al. determined the cost of sick leave specific for one business was an estimated $480 per employee, and about five days of sick leave per year could be attributed to low ventilation rates. When comparing low ventilation rate areas of the building to higher ventilation rate areas, the relative risk of short-term sick leave was 1.53 times greater in the low ventilation areas.[29]

Home

[edit]

Sick building syndrome can be caused by one's home. Laminate flooring may release more SBS-causing chemicals than do stone, tile, and concrete floors.[17] Recent redecorating and new furnishings within the last year are associated with increased symptoms; so are dampness and related factors, having pets, and cockroaches.[17] Mosquitoes are related to more symptoms, but it is unclear whether the immediate cause of the symptoms is the mosquitoes or the repellents used against them.[17]

Mold

[edit]

Sick building syndrome may be associated with indoor mold or mycotoxin contamination. However, the attribution of sick building syndrome to mold is controversial and supported by little evidence.[30][31][32]

Indoor temperature

[edit]

Indoor temperature under 18 °C (64 °F) has been shown to be associated with increased respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, increased blood levels, and increased hospitalization.[33]

Diagnosis

[edit]

While sick building syndrome (SBS) encompasses a multitude of non-specific symptoms, building-related illness (BRI) comprises specific, diagnosable symptoms caused by certain agents (chemicals, bacteria, fungi, etc.). These can typically be identified, measured, and quantified.[34] There are usually four causal agents in BRi: immunologic, infectious, toxic, and irritant.[34] For instance, Legionnaire's disease, usually caused by Legionella pneumophila, involves a specific organism which could be ascertained through clinical findings as the source of contamination within a building.[34]

Prevention

[edit]
  • Reduction of time spent in the building
  • If living in the building, moving to a new place
  • Fixing any deteriorated paint or concrete deterioration
  • Regular inspections to indicate for presence of mold or other toxins
  • Adequate maintenance of all building mechanical systems
  • Toxin-absorbing plants, such as sansevieria[35][36][37][38][39][40][41][excessive citations]
  • Roof shingle non-pressure cleaning for removal of algae, mold, and Gloeocapsa magma
  • Using ozone to eliminate the many sources, such as VOCs, molds, mildews, bacteria, viruses, and even odors. However, numerous studies identify high-ozone shock treatment as ineffective despite commercial popularity and popular belief.
  • Replacement of water-stained ceiling tiles and carpeting
  • Only using paints, adhesives, solvents, and pesticides in well-ventilated areas or only using these pollutant sources during periods of non-occupancy
  • Increasing the number of air exchanges; the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers recommend a minimum of 8.4 air exchanges per 24-hour period
  • Increased ventilation rates that are above the minimum guidelines[22]
  • Proper and frequent maintenance of HVAC systems
  • UV-C light in the HVAC plenum
  • Installation of HVAC air cleaning systems or devices to remove VOCs and bioeffluents (people odors)
  • Central vacuums that completely remove all particles from the house including the ultrafine particles (UFPs) which are less than 0.1 μm
  • Regular vacuuming with a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner to collect and retain 99.97% of particles down to and including 0.3 micrometers
  • Placing bedding in sunshine, which is related to a study done in a high-humidity area where damp bedding was common and associated with SBS[17]
  • Lighting in the workplace should be designed to give individuals control, and be natural when possible[42]
  • Relocating office printers outside the air conditioning boundary, perhaps to another building
  • Replacing current office printers with lower emission rate printers[43]
  • Identification and removal of products containing harmful ingredients

Management

[edit]

SBS, as a non-specific blanket term, does not have any specific cause or cure. Any known cure would be associated with the specific eventual disease that was cause by exposure to known contaminants. In all cases, alleviation consists of removing the affected person from the building associated. BRI, on the other hand, utilizes treatment appropriate for the contaminant identified within the building (e.g., antibiotics for Legionnaire's disease).[citation needed]

Improving the indoor air quality (IAQ) of a particular building can attenuate, or even eliminate, the continued exposure to toxins. However, a Cochrane review of 12 mold and dampness remediation studies in private homes, workplaces and schools by two independent authors were deemed to be very low to moderate quality of evidence in reducing adult asthma symptoms and results were inconsistent among children.[44] For the individual, the recovery may be a process involved with targeting the acute symptoms of a specific illness, as in the case of mold toxins.[45] Treating various building-related illnesses is vital to the overall understanding of SBS. Careful analysis by certified building professionals and physicians can help to identify the exact cause of the BRI, and help to illustrate a causal path to infection. With this knowledge one can, theoretically, remediate a building of contaminants and rebuild the structure with new materials. Office BRI may more likely than not be explained by three events: "Wide range in the threshold of response in any population (susceptibility), a spectrum of response to any given agent, or variability in exposure within large office buildings."[46]

Isolating any one of the three aspects of office BRI can be a great challenge, which is why those who find themselves with BRI should take three steps, history, examinations, and interventions. History describes the action of continually monitoring and recording the health of workers experiencing BRI, as well as obtaining records of previous building alterations or related activity. Examinations go hand in hand with monitoring employee health. This step is done by physically examining the entire workspace and evaluating possible threats to health status among employees. Interventions follow accordingly based on the results of the Examination and History report.[46]

Epidemiology

[edit]

Some studies have found that women have higher reports of SBS symptoms than men.[17][10] It is not entirely clear, however, if this is due to biological, social, or occupational factors.

A 2001 study published in the Journal Indoor Air, gathered 1464 office-working participants to increase the scientific understanding of gender differences under the Sick Building Syndrome phenomenon.[47] Using questionnaires, ergonomic investigations, building evaluations, as well as physical, biological, and chemical variables, the investigators obtained results that compare with past studies of SBS and gender. The study team found that across most test variables, prevalence rates were different in most areas, but there was also a deep stratification of working conditions between genders as well. For example, men's workplaces tend to be significantly larger and have all-around better job characteristics. Secondly, there was a noticeable difference in reporting rates, specifically that women have higher rates of reporting roughly 20% higher than men. This information was similar to that found in previous studies, thus indicating a potential difference in willingness to report.[47]

There might be a gender difference in reporting rates of sick building syndrome, because women tend to report more symptoms than men do. Along with this, some studies have found that women have a more responsive immune system and are more prone to mucosal dryness and facial erythema. Also, women are alleged by some to be more exposed to indoor environmental factors because they have a greater tendency to have clerical jobs, wherein they are exposed to unique office equipment and materials (example: blueprint machines, toner-based printers), whereas men often have jobs based outside of offices.[48]

History

[edit]

In the late 1970s, it was noted that nonspecific symptoms were reported by tenants in newly constructed homes, offices, and nurseries. In media it was called "office illness". The term "sick building syndrome" was coined by the WHO in 1986, when they also estimated that 10–30% of newly built office buildings in the West had indoor air problems. Early Danish and British studies reported symptoms.

Poor indoor environments attracted attention. The Swedish allergy study (SOU 1989:76) designated "sick building" as a cause of the allergy epidemic as was feared. In the 1990s, therefore, extensive research into "sick building" was carried out. Various physical and chemical factors in the buildings were examined on a broad front.

The problem was highlighted increasingly in media and was described as a "ticking time bomb". Many studies were performed in individual buildings.

In the 1990s "sick buildings" were contrasted against "healthy buildings". The chemical contents of building materials were highlighted. Many building material manufacturers were actively working to gain control of the chemical content and to replace criticized additives. The ventilation industry advocated above all more well-functioning ventilation. Others perceived ecological construction, natural materials, and simple techniques as a solution.

At the end of the 1990s came an increased distrust of the concept of "sick building". A dissertation at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm 1999 questioned the methodology of previous research, and a Danish study from 2005 showed these flaws experimentally. It was suggested that sick building syndrome was not really a coherent syndrome and was not a disease to be individually diagnosed, but a collection of as many as a dozen semi-related diseases. In 2006 the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare recommended in the medical journal Läkartidningen that "sick building syndrome" should not be used as a clinical diagnosis. Thereafter, it has become increasingly less common to use terms such as sick buildings and sick building syndrome in research. However, the concept remains alive in popular culture and is used to designate the set of symptoms related to poor home or work environment engineering. Sick building is therefore an expression used especially in the context of workplace health.

Sick building syndrome made a rapid journey from media to courtroom where professional engineers and architects became named defendants and were represented by their respective professional practice insurers. Proceedings invariably relied on expert witnesses, medical and technical experts along with building managers, contractors and manufacturers of finishes and furnishings, testifying as to cause and effect. Most of these actions resulted in sealed settlement agreements, none of these being dramatic. The insurers needed a defense based upon Standards of Professional Practice to meet a court decision that declared that in a modern, essentially sealed building, the HVAC systems must produce breathing air for suitable human consumption. ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers, currently with over 50,000 international members) undertook the task of codifying its indoor air quality (IAQ) standard.

ASHRAE empirical research determined that "acceptability" was a function of outdoor (fresh air) ventilation rate and used carbon dioxide as an accurate measurement of occupant presence and activity. Building odors and contaminants would be suitably controlled by this dilution methodology. ASHRAE codified a level of 1,000 ppm of carbon dioxide and specified the use of widely available sense-and-control equipment to assure compliance. The 1989 issue of ASHRAE 62.1-1989 published the whys and wherefores and overrode the 1981 requirements that were aimed at a ventilation level of 5,000 ppm of carbon dioxide (the OSHA workplace limit), federally set to minimize HVAC system energy consumption. This apparently ended the SBS epidemic.

Over time, building materials changed with respect to emissions potential. Smoking vanished and dramatic improvements in ambient air quality, coupled with code compliant ventilation and maintenance, per ASHRAE standards have all contributed to the acceptability of the indoor air environment.[49][50]

See also

[edit]
  • Aerotoxic syndrome
  • Air purifier
  • Asthmagen
  • Cleanroom
  • Electromagnetic hypersensitivity
  • Havana syndrome
  • Healthy building
  • Indoor air quality
  • Lead paint
  • Multiple chemical sensitivity
  • NASA Clean Air Study
  • Nosocomial infection
  • Particulates
  • Power tools
  • Renovation
  • Somatization disorder
  • Fan death

References

[edit]
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  19. ^ ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2016.
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Further reading

[edit]
  • Martín-Gil J., Yanguas M. C., San José J. F., Rey-Martínez and Martín-Gil F. J. "Outcomes of research into a sick hospital". Hospital Management International, 1997, pp. 80–82. Sterling Publications Limited.
  • Åke Thörn, The Emergence and preservation of sick building syndrome, KI 1999.
  • Charlotte Brauer, The sick building syndrome revisited, Copenhagen 2005.
  • Michelle Murphy, Sick Building Syndrome and the Problem of Uncertainty, 2006.
  • Johan Carlson, "Gemensam förklaringsmodell för sjukdomar kopplade till inomhusmiljön finns inte" [Unified explanation for diseases related to indoor environment not found]. Läkartidningen 2006/12.
  • Bulletin of the Transilvania University of BraÅŸov, Series I: Engineering Sciences • Vol. 5 (54) No. 1 2012 "Impact of Indoor Environment Quality on Sick Building Syndrome in Indian Leed Certified Buildings". by Jagannathan Mohan
[edit]
  • Best Practices for Indoor Air Quality when Remodeling Your Home, US EPA
  • Renovation and Repair, Part of Indoor Air Quality Design Tools for Schools, US EPA
  • Addressing Indoor Environmental Concerns During Remodeling, US EPA
  • Dust FAQs, UK HSE Archived 2023-03-20 at the Wayback Machine
  • CCOHS: Welding - Fumes And Gases | Health Effect of Welding Fumes

 

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Reviews for Durham Supply Inc


Durham Supply Inc

Salest

(5)

Had to make a quick run for 2 sets of 🚪🔒 door locks for front and back door.. In/ out in a quick minute! They helped me right away. ✅️ Made sure the 2 sets had the same 🔑 keys. The 🚻 bathroom was clean and had everything I needed. 🧼 🧻. Made a quick inquiry about a random item... they quickly looked it up and gave me pricing. Great 👍 job 👏

Durham Supply Inc

Jennifer Williamson

(5)

First we would like to thank you for installing our air conditioning unit! I’d like to really brag about our technician, Mack, that came to our home to install our unit in our new home. Mack was here for most of the day and throughly explained everything we had a question about. By the late afternoon, we had cold air pumping through our vents and we couldn’t have been more thankful. I can tell you, I would be very lucky to have a technician like Mack if this were my company. He was very very professional, kind, and courteous. Please give Mack a pat on the back and stay rest assured that Mack is doing a great job and upholding your company name! Mack, if you see this, great job!! Thanks for everything you did!! We now have a new HVAC company in the event we need one. We will also spread the word to others!!

Durham Supply Inc

Crystal Dawn

(1)

I would give 0 stars. This isnTHE WORST company for heating and air. I purchased a home less than one year ago and my ac has gone out twice and these people refuse to repair it although I AM UNDER WARRANTY!!!! They say it’s an environmental issue and they can’t fix it or even try to or replace my warrantied air conditioning system.

Durham Supply Inc

Noel Vandy

(5)

Thanks to the hard work of Randy our AC finally got the service it needed. These 100 degree days definitely feel long when your house isn't getting cool anymore. We were so glad when Randy came to work on the unit, he had all the tools and products he needed with him and it was all good and running well when he left. With a long drive to get here and only few opportunities to do so, we are glad he got it done in 1 visit. Now let us hope it will keep running well for a good while.

Durham Supply Inc

K Moore

(1)

No service after the sale. I purchased a sliding patio door and was given the wrong size sliding screen door. After speaking with the salesman and manager several times the issue is still not resolved and, I was charged full price for an incomplete door. They blamed the supplier for all the issues…and have offered me nothing to resolve this.

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