There is a lot of noise about using plug-and-play electronic products to solve IAQ for customers.

Instead, we found that by focusing on high-quality filtration and controlled fresh air makeup, we can solve many problems.
Tight homes, whether new or renovated, often suffer from zero fresh air intake, leading to unhealthy indoor environments, especially when new furniture and other sources of VOCs are introduced.

The team here at Copeland strongly believes in the High-Performance HVAC™ approach of measuring and testing systems. Combined with properly sized HVAC equipment and ductwork, our team provides customers with systems that achieve high performance and circulate clean air throughout their homes.

Recently, we started using tools like measureQuick® software to test and measure airflow, static pressure, and system performance on every call. This data-driven approach allows us to produce customer-friendly reports to help homeowners understand the issues in their homes and make informed decisions.

In these two case studies, we didn’t use measureQuick, but we are moving towards third-party verification using tools like ConduitTech’s LIDAR technology.

This technology provides accurate load calculation coupled with room-by-room CFM requirements, ensuring our designs meet the highest standards.

Our training in duct sizing and airflow and the use of advanced tools allow us to achieve true Btu delivery. The before-and-after testing results are not based on opinions but on objective, third-party data. I love this scientific approach; it sets us apart and ensures our solutions are effective.

Selling IAQ solutions can be challenging, especially when the urgency isn’t high. Both projects had a high urgency due to the severe impact on each client’s day-to-day life. Preventative measures can be a harder sell because it’s difficult for homeowners to justify the cost unless they’ve experienced the problems firsthand.

By clearly communicating with customers and showing them photos of what we find, we can help them
understand the extent of the issues and prepare them for the necessary work.

In the case of our male client, the photos alone were enough to show him why he was sick. To him, making the $60,000 investment was completely worthwhile.

For the female client, her project also included the premium Kingspan Koolduct System, which features an antimicrobial phenolic foam trunk line with anti microbial flex duct. This system was more expensive but provided superior performance and peace of mind.

Not all homeowners can afford extensive IAQ solutions. Those who can’t qualify for financing may have to move out and disclose the issues. This situation is far from ideal. However, for those who do have the means, we can solve their problems and prove the effectiveness of our work.

On average, we handle four to five major IAQ projects like these per year. Each project requires a different mindset and approach, considering both the HVAC side and the broader environmental factors.

Working closely with an environmentalist and mold remediator became a game-changer in our case. Together, our measurement results reports provided the homeowners with a comprehensive view of their home’s issues while helping us make sure our solutions are based on objective measurements.