Your Guide to the Stack Effect

By simply controlling airflow into and through your home, you can save energy and money. This is why it’s important to learn about the stack effect and why it can have negative effects on your house. In this post, Entergis Testing and Sealing, LLC. shares more about your home’s airflow.

What Is the Stack Effect?

Warm air circulating upward within a house is referred to as the “stack effect,” sometimes known as the chimney effect. Warm air has a lower density than cooler air. As a result of warm air rising, a pressure difference is created, with lower pressure below and higher pressure above. Homes suffer reduced pressure in the winter, which enables cooler air from outside to move into the lower floors. This process repeats again as the cooler air warms up. During the summer and in warmer climates, the stack effect reverses. 

The Stack Effect’s Effect on Your House

You don’t need to worry about issues caused by the stack effect if your house is designed for its mitigation. Without proper planning and structure, however, you may suffer from its negative effects, which will affect your home’s energy efficiency and overall comfort indoors. The following are some of the negative effects you may experience if you’re not able to control your airflow:

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• Your HVAC equipment will be worked too much as it tries to cope with air losses or increasing load. Inefficient HVAC systems raise energy and maintenance costs, while insufficient temperature management compromises your comfort.

• Moisture can be a problem once it enters your structure, as too much moisture allows mold and germs to thrive. Moisture penetration is a severe problem that can ruin your house and jeopardize your health.

• Doors and elevators may require greater force to use.

• Too much noise will be produced by air moving between fissures.

• Air movement can affect fire prevention by spreading flames and smoke. Buildings exposed to the coldest airflow may experience frozen sprinkler system piping in some circumstances.

Let us help you make your property more comfortable and energy efficient. Entergis Testing and Sealing, LLC. offers quality leakage testing and sealing services to industrial, commercial and residential clients. Call us at (225) 445-2362 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.