Frequently Asked Questions

General

What Services Do You Offer?

Primarily we provide ultra high efficiency full building air sealing with Aerobarrier as well as high efficiency HRV ventilation system installations.  The greatest energy efficiency and health benefit is achieved by combining both together.  Ask us about our combo deals!

Additionally we install highly efficient heat pump heating and cooling units.  These units allow you to replace your furnace and air conditioner with one appliance.

What Area Do You Cover?

We effectively cover all of Central California.  Give us a call and we’ll make sure it works!

Efficiency First Solutions Coverage Map

 

Aerobarrier

What is the Benefit of Air Sealing?
  • Dramatic HVAC efficiency improvement
  • Separate indoor air from outside air (including mold, pollen dust, diesel particulates)
  • Improve thermal comfort in the building
  • Stop heated / cooled air from leaking out of building
  • Substantially reduce sound transmission
  • Reduce pest infiltration into the building
  • Reduce moisture movement into the building
What is Aerobarrier? How Does Aerobarrier Air Sealing Work?

Please see this post for more detailed information.

How Well Does It Work?

Our worst result so far has been a 50% improvement.  We average 70-90% air leakage reduction in one day.  Results are received live and we present a certificate with before and after results to all of our customers (example below).

Aerobarrier Air Sealing Certificate

What Size Gaps Can Be Sealed?

Gaps up to 5/8″ can be very effectively sealed with Aerobarrier.  Larger gaps such as plumbing penetrations should be sealed with foam or caulking beforehand.  We will seal large gaps that we find during our prep process.

Is The Material Fireproof? What Is The Flame Spread?

Strictly speaking, Aerobarrier is NOT a fireproofing material and cannot substitute traditional fireproofing methods and materials.  With that said, it does have some great qualities in the event of a fire:

  • 0 Flame Spread (ASTM E84)
  • 0 Smoke Developed (ANSI/UL 263)
Is The Material Permeable? Will It Trap Moisture In The Walls?

Aerobarrier is highly permeable (~24 perm), meaning that it will NOT trap moisture in the walls.

When Should Aerobarrier Be Applied?

During new construction, Aerobarrier can be applied any time between “envelope complete” (exterior sheathing, weather resistant barrier, roof w/underlayment, exterior doors and windows) and before finish materials are installed.  The ideal time is after drywall has tape and mud.

For existing buildings, the ideal time is in between occupants, usually during a sale or change of tenant (furniture, appliances, and personal items removed as much as possible).

What Is The Sealant Made Of?

The sealant is a water based acrylic liquid.  The sealant has been rated for 50+ years of expected performance.

What Are The Health Effects Of The Sealant?

The sealant is rated Greenguard Gold (rated safe for schools and hospitals) and ultra low VOC.  It is non-toxic.

How Long Does It Take To Apply Aerobarrier?

An average house is usually fully sealed in one day.  Larger or more complex buildings may require multiple days of preparation and sealing.  Give us a call and we can give you a rough time estimate based on your plans.

Does Air Sealing Count Towards California Energy Code Compliance?

Yes!  For more information please read this post.

Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs)

What Are HRVs (Heat Recovery Ventilators)?

Please check out this post for an overview of these great systems.