Make-Up-Air Installation

Make Up Air Installation: Why It Matters for MA Homes

Proper make up air installation ensures your home breathes as well as it heats or cools. In today’s energy-efficient homes, tight construction can actually trap air inside—bringing in issues like moisture, odors, and even harmful carbon monoxide buildup. That’s where make-up-air systems come in, replacing exhausted air with fresh, tempered air from outside.

Why Fresh Air Flow Is So Important

Without proper airflow, your ventilation system has to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and lower indoor comfort. Moreover, unbalanced pressure can cause air to sneak in through walls, windows, and gaps, carrying pollutants with it.

• Stabilizes indoor air pressure
• Reduces allergens and humidity
• Supports proper exhaust from kitchen hoods and dryers
• Enhances the efficiency of heating and cooling systems

"Most homeowners don’t realize that running a kitchen range hood without a make-up-air system can create negative pressure, pulling in cold air—and even back-drafting harmful gases."

Improves Efficiency and Comfort

Balanced airflow means your HVAC systems work smarter, not harder. Make-up air units bring in conditioned air that matches the comfort level indoors, so your home stays more consistent through the seasons.

How to Install Make Up Air Systems in Your Home

Knowing how to install make up air properly involves more than just plugging in a machine. At SumZero Energy Systems, we take a whole-home approach to maximize comfort and energy savings.

How to Install Make Up Air for Range Hood

Kitchens are one of the most common problem areas when it comes to air pressure. If you're noticing smoke, lingering odors, or inconsistent cooking results, it's likely your range hood is exhausting more air than your home brings in.

Installation includes:

1. Determining the correct CFM (cubic feet per minute) your exhaust system pulls
2. Matching that with a suitable make-up-air unit
3. Integrating temperature regulation for comfort (no freezing cold drafts!)
4. Ensuring compliance with MA building codes

Bonus Tip: Be sure to ask about eligible rebates and incentives from Mass Save when upgrading or installing a new air system.

Adding a properly-sized make-up-air unit isn't just a technical fix—it’s a comfort upgrade your whole home will feel. Whether you're dealing with a humid kitchen or stale indoor air, expert make up air unit installation is the key to doing things right the first time.