What happens to indoor air quality when mechanical ventilation systems are overly used?

When mechanical ventilation systems are overly used, the indoor air quality can deteriorate due to over-ventilation. This occurs because excessive ventilation can lead to a range of issues, including discomfort from drafts, increased energy costs, and the potential for introducing pollutants from outside air, such as allergens, dust, and toxic gases.

In certain conditions, too much outside air can dilute indoor pollutants like volatile organic compounds (VOCs) but can also overwhelm the space with outdoor contaminants. This misuse of ventilation can create an imbalance in air exchange rates, leading to higher humidity levels or thermal discomfort. Furthermore, if there isn't a proper filtration system in place, the influx of outside air can carry in more particulates and biological contaminants than it removes, ultimately degrading the air quality instead of improving it.

Maintaining a balanced and efficient ventilation strategy is crucial for ensuring that indoor environments remain healthy and comfortable, as both under-ventilation and over-ventilation can negatively impact air quality in different ways.