Minnesota Code Requirements for Mechanical Ventilation

Any single-family home built since April 2000 has to have a mechanical ventilation system.  Minnesota is one of the only states with this requirement because of the tight air sealing and insulation requirements.  Most builders use either an air exchanger or a continuously exhausting fan(s) to meet this energy code requirement.  Air exchangers can be heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) or energy recovery ventilators (ERVs).

Minnesota homes are built under the motto “Build It Tight & Ventilate It Right.”  Your home needs you to run and maintain your mechanical ventilation system in order for it to operate correctly.  If you fail to do this, you could void the Home Warranty Law provisions provided under state law.  Your warranty does not cover “Loss or damage from dampness and condensation due to insufficient ventilation after occupancy.”  (327A.03 Exclusions)