xvEPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
VERSION 1 (REV. 03)
Indoor airPLUS
CONSTRUCTION SPECIFICATIONS
EPA Indoor
airpius
October 2015
www2.epa.gov/indoorairplus
Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)
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Contents
About the Indoor airPLUS Construction Specifications 1
What's New in Version 1 (Rev. 03)? 1
Eligibility and Verification Requirements 1
Terms Used in This Document 1
Indoor airPLUS Verification Checklist 2
Guidance for Completing the Indoor airPLUS Verification Checklist 3
Indoor airPLUS Construction Specifications 4
1. Moisture Control 4
2. Radon Control 6
3. Pest Barriers 6
4. HVAC Systems 7
5. Combustion Pollutant Control 8
6. Low Emission Materials 9
7. Home Commissioning 10
Abbreviations 11
References 12
Climate Zones Map 14
About the Indoor airPLUS Construction Specifications
These specifications were developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to recognize new homes equipped with a comprehensive
set of indoor air quality (IAQ) features. They were developed with significant input from stakeholders, based on best available science and
information about risks associated with IAQ problems, and balanced with practical issues of cost, builder production process compatibility, and
verifiability.
The Indoor airPLUS Program fully integrates ENERGY STAR Certified Home requirements as a prerequisite. In addition, both the ENERGY STAR
Certified Home label and the Indoor airPLUS label are prerequisites for the Department of Energy's Zero Energy Ready Home Program, which is the
next step in building high performance, sustainable homes.
NOTE: Although these measures are designed to help improve IAQ in new homes compared with homes built to minimum code, they alone
cannot prevent all IAQ problems. For example, occupant behavior, such as smoking indoors, and system maintenance are also important.
What's New in Version 1 (Rev. 03)?
Indoor airPLUS VI (Rev. 03) revises the Construction Specifications to parallel the changes seen in the ENERGY STAR
Certified Homes Version 3/3.1 (Rev. 08). Although Indoor airPLUS Revision 3 does not increase program stringency from
previous revisions, it adds clarification and/or refinement to some requirements. Additionally, this revision updates
various referenced standards and includes a new resource link to help find compliant low-emission products.
Homes permitted starting 01/01/2016 are required to use Revision 3 of the Construction Specifications for qualification.
For homes permitted before 01/01/2016, partners can use either Revision 2 or Revision 3 if desired. The Rater may
define "permit date" as either the date that the permit was issued or the date of the contract on the home.
Eligibility and Verification Requirements
For a home to earn the Indoor airPLUS label, it must also earn the ENERGY STAR Certified Homes label. Requirements
for both programs can be verified and homes can be reported simultaneously. Verification can be completed during
the ENERGY STAR inspection process and must be conducted by a Provider accredited by the Residential Energy
Services Network (RESNET) in accordance with RESNET standards. The home must also comply with all applicable state
and local codes and standards. Instructions for Indoor airPLUS verification are listed below in the Verification Checklist.
Terms Used in This Document
Qualified homes earn
the Indoor airPLUS
label. Place it next to
the ENERGY STAR
label.
EXCEPTIONS to the requirements described in these construction specifications are noted as appropriate. For climate exceptions, refer to the
2009 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) Climate Zone map (Figure 301.1). Climate Zone names may include a number for the
temperature zone and a letter for the moisture zone (e.g., Zone 3C refers to coastal California only).
NOTES provide additional information to clarify specification requirements.
ADVISORIES provide additional guidance to be considered, but are not specification requirements.
PERFORMANCE TEST ALTERNATIVES describe alternate compliance approaches where performance testing is practical and results are
comparable to those of the prescriptive best practices required in the specification.
Indoor airPLUS Version 1 (Rev. 03) Construction Specifications (October 2015) 1
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&EPA
_ ted States
Environmental Protei
Agency
Indoor airPLUS Version 1 (Rev. 03)
Verification Checklist
Home Address: City: State: Zip:
Section
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Moisture Control
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HVAC Systems
Combustion Pollutants
Materials
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Requirements (Refer to full Indoor airPLUS Construction Specifications for details)
Note: The Rev. 03 checklist has been modified to reflect only the additional Indoor airPLUS
requirements and their corresponding section numbers that must be met after completing
the ENERGY STAR requirements. ENERGY STAR remains a prerequisite for Indoor airPLUS
qualification.
ENERGY STAR Version 3 Program Requirements must be followed and the home shall be
ENERGY STAR certified in conjunction with Indoor airPLUS qualification.
1.1
1.2
1.4
1.7
1.11
2.1
3.2
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.6
4.7
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
6.1
6.2
6.3
7.1
7.2
7.3
Rater Company
Rater Employee
Rater Signature
Drain or sump pump installed in basements and crawlspaces (Exception: free-draining
soils). In EPA Radon Zone 1, check valve also installed.
Layer of aggregate or sand (4 in.) with geotextile matting installed below slabs
(Exceptions: see spec) AND radon techniques used in EPA Radon Zone 1.
Basements/crawlspaces insulated, sealed and conditioned (Exceptions: see spec).
Protection from water splash damage if no gutters (Exceptions: see spec).
Hard-surface flooring in kitchens, baths, entry, laundry and utility rooms, AND piping
in exterior walls insulated with pipe wrap.
Radon-resistant features installed in Radon Zone 1 homes in accordance with
Construction Specification 2.1.
Corrosion-proof rodent/bird screens installed at all openings that cannot be fully
sealed (Exception: dryer vents).
Equipment selected to keep relative humidity < 60% in "Warm-Humid" climates
(Exception: see spec).
Duct systems protected from construction debris AND no building cavities used as air
supplies or returns.
No air-handling equipment or ductwork installed in garage AND continuous air barrier
in adjacent assemblies.
Clothes dryers vented to the outdoors or plumbed to a drain according to
manufacturer's instructions.
Central forced-air HVAC system(s) have minimum MERV 8 filter AND no ozone
generators in home. Temporary filter installed to protect unit from construction dust.
Emissions standards met for fuel-burning and space-heating appliances.
CO alarms installed in each sleeping zone (e.g., common hallway) according to NFPA
720.
Multifamily buildings: Smoking restrictions implemented AND ETS transfer pathways
minimized.
Attached garages: Door closer installed on all connecting doors AND in homes with
exhaust-only whole-house ventilation EITHER a 70 cfm exhaust fan installed in garage
OR a pressure test conducted to verify the effectiveness of the garage-to-house air
barrier. See spec for details.
All composite wood products certified low-emission. See spec.
Interior paints and finishes certified low-emission. See spec.
Carpet, carpet adhesives, and carpet cushion certified low-emission. See spec.
HVAC system and ductwork verified to be dry and clean AND new filter installed.
Home ventilated before occupancy.
Equipment manuals, Indoor airPLUS label, and certificate provided for buyer.
Must
Correct
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
Builder
Verified
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
Rater
Verified
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
N/A
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
Indoor airPLUS Version 1 (Rev. 03) Construction Specifications (October 2015) 2
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Guidance for Completing the Indoor airPLUS Verification Checklist:
1. Only ENERGY STAR certified homes verified to comply with these specifications can earn the Indoor airPLUS label. See Indoor airPLUS
Construction Specifications for full descriptions of the requirements, terms, exceptions, abbreviations, references and climate map used in this
checklist. Verification is not complete until this checklist is completed in full and signed.
Note: ENERGY STAR footnotes and exceptions will always be utilized unless otherwise noted in the Indoor airPLUS Construction Specifications.
In some cases, Indoor airPLUS modifies or excludes certain ENERGY STAR exceptions or alternate pathways.
2. Check one box per line. Check "N/A" for specifications that do not apply for specific conditions (e.g., climate) according to the exceptions
described in the Indoor airPLUS Construction Specifications. Check either "Builder Verified" or "Rater Verified" for all other items to indicate
who verified each item. Items may be verified visually on site during construction, by reviewing photographs taken during construction, by
checking documentation, or through equivalent methods as appropriate.
3. The Rater who conducted the verification, or a responsible party from the Rater's company, must sign the completed verification checklist.
The builder must sign the checklist if any items in the "Builder Verified" column are checked, and by so doing accepts full responsibility for
verifying that those items meet Indoor airPLUS requirements.
4. The builder provides one copy of the completed and signed Indoor airPLUS Verification Checklist for the buyer. The HERS Provider or Rater
files a copy of the HERS and ENERGY STAR documentation (e.g., ENERGY STAR Certified Homes Version 3 Inspection Checklists) for the home.
5. Raters who operate under a Sampling Provider are permitted to use a RESNET-approved sampling protocol for Indoor airPLUS homes located
outside California, and a sampling protocol approved by the California Energy Commission for homes located in California, to verify any item
designated "Rater Verified." For example, if the approved sampling protocol requires rating one in seven homes, then the checklist will be
completed for the one home that was rated. Only Raters are permitted to use sampling. All items verified by the builder shall be verified for
each qualified home or unit within a multifamily building. For example, if a Rater verifies 10 items on the Indoor airPLUS Checklist and the
builder verifies the remaining checklist items, then an approved sampling protocol is permitted to be used only on the 10 Rater-verified items.
However, the builder must provide the Rater with a signed copy of the checklist for each home or unit with builder-verified items.
Notes:
For further information on the Indoor airPLUS program, visit www2.epa.gov/indoorairplus.
Qualified homes earn the
Indoor airPLUS label.
Place it next to the
ENERGY STAR label.
ENERGY STAR
All Indoor airPLUS qualified homes meet strict
guidelines for energy efficiency set by ENERGY STAR,
the nationally-recognized symbol for energy efficiency.
Indoor airPLUS Version 1 (Rev. 03) Construction Specifications (October 2015) 3
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Indoor airPLUS Construction Specifications
Version 1 (Rev. 03)
ENERGY STAR certification is a pre-requisite for a home to achieve Indoor airPLUS qualification. ENERGY STAR checklist items that satisfy Indoor
airPLUS requirements are only summarized below; please refer to the noted ENERGY STAR checklist item for the full description of the
requirement.
ENERGY STAR checklists are referenced as follows: HVAC-D = HVAC Design Report, HVAC-C = HVAC Commissioning Checklist, Rater-D = Rater
Design Review Checklist, Rater-F = Rater Field Checklist, Builder-W = Water Management System Builder Requirements.
1. Moisture Control
1.1 Site and Foundation Drainage
NOTE: Completion of the ENERGY STAR requirements now satisfies the
following Indoor airPLUS requirements:
v' Slope patio slabs, walks and driveway; tamp back-fill to prevent
settling; AND slope the final grade away from the foundation (Builder-
W 1.1 and 1.2).
•S Swales or drains designed to carry water away from the foundation
are permitted to be provided as an alternative to the slope
requirements for any home, and shall be provided for a home where
setbacks limit space to less than 10ft. (Builder-W 1.1 and 1.2).
•S Install protected drain tile at the footings of basement and
crawlspace walls. Surround each drain tile pipe with washed or clean
gravel wrapped with fabric cloth, or install an approved Composite
Foundation Drainage System (CFDS) (Builder-W 1.8).
Additional Indoor airPLUS Requirements:
• Install a drain or sump pump in basement and crawlspace
floors, discharging to daylight at least 10 ft. outside the
foundation or into an approved sewer system.
Exceptions:
• Slab-on-grade foundations.
• In areas of free-draining soils — identified as Group 1
(Table R405.1, 2009 IRC) by a certified hydrologist, soil
scientist, or engineer through a site visit — installation of
a drain or sump pump is not required.
• In EPA Radon Zone 1, if a drain tile discharges to daylight install
a check valve at the drain tile outfall (see Specification 2.1).
1.2 Capillary Break Installation
NOTE: Completion of the ENERGY STAR requirements now satisfies the
following Indoor airPLUS requirements:
<^ Install polyethylene sheeting or extruded polystyrene (XPS) insulation
beneath concrete slabs, including basement floors. Ensure sheeting is
in direct contact with the concrete slab above (Builder- W 1.3).
<^ Install a capillary break at all crawlspace floors using > 6 mil
polyethylene sheeting, lapped 6 to 12 in. (Builder-W 1.4).
Additional Indoor airPLUS Requirements:
• Under the polyethylene sheeting or extruded polystyrene (XPS)
insulation installed to meet ENERGY STAR Water Management
System Builder Checklist Item 1.3:
o Install a 4 in. layer of 1/2 in. diameter or greater clean
aggregate; OR
o Install a 4 in. uniform layer of sand, overlain with either a
layer of geotextile drainage matting throughout or strips
of geotextile drainage matting along the perimeter
installed according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Exceptions to the aggregate OR sand requirement:
(Not applicable in EPA Radon Zone 1)
• Dry climates, as defined by 2009 IECC Figure 301.1.
• Areas with free-draining soils - identified as Group 1 (Table
R405.1, 2009 IRC) by a certified hydrologist, soil scientist, or
engineer through a site visit.
• Slab-on-grade foundations.
Alternative path for gut-rehabs:
• For an existing slab in a home undergoing a gut
rehabilitation in Radon Zones 2 and 3, the alternate slab
treatment in the ENERGY STAR Water Management System
Builder Checklist, footnote 5, shall apply as an alternative to
polyethylene and aggregate or sand under the slab. Homes
undergoing gut rehabilitation in Radon Zone 1 must also
install an active radon system utilizing sub-slab
depressurization, and radon levels shall be verified upon
final inspection to be below the EPA action level (4pCi/l) to
receive qualification.
Note: In EPA Radon Zone 1 (see Specification 2.1):
• Polyethylene sheeting must be installed and overlapped by 6
to 12 in. at the seams.
• ENERGY STAR staking method for poly sheeting may not be
used in crawlspaces with no slab.
• ENERGY STAR exceptions for capillary break (polyethylene)
under slabs do not apply. Poly is required in Radon Zone 1.
Advisory: 10 mil polyethylene is recommended if crawlspace
floors are not covered with a concrete slab.
1.3 Damp-Proofing and Waterproofing Below-Grade Exterior Walls
NOTE: Completion of the ENERGY STAR requirements now satisfies the
following Indoor airPLUS requirements:
<^ Finish all masonry and concrete walls (e.g., poured concrete, concrete
masonry, insulated concrete forms) with a damp-proof coating
(Builder-W 1.5).
•S Finish all wood-framed walls with polyethylene and adhesive or other
equivalent waterproofing (Builder-W 1.5).
No additional Indoor airPLUS Requirements
Indoor airPLUS Version 1 (Rev. 03) Construction Specifications (October 2015) 4
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1.4 Basement and Crawlspace Insulation and Conditioned Air
Indoor airPLUS Requirements:
• Insulate crawlspace and basement perimeter walls according
to the prescriptive values of the 2009 IRC Table N1102.1 or
2009 IECC Table 402.1.1 at a minimum (also see Specification
1.12).
• Seal crawlspace and basement perimeter walls to prevent
outside air infiltration.
• Provide conditioned air at a rate not less than 1 cfm per 50 sq.
ft. of horizontal floor area. This can be achieved by a dedicated
supply (2009 IRC section R408.3.2.2) or through crawl-space
exhaust (2009 IRC section R408.3.2.1). However, if radon-
resistant features are required (see Specification 2.1), do not
use the crawlspace exhaust method.
Exceptions:
• Homes built in areas designated as flood zones (conditioned
crawlspaces not recommended for use in flood zones).
• Raised pier foundations with no walls.
• Dry climates, as defined by 2009 IECC Figure 301.1.
• Marine climates, as defined by 2009 IECC Figure 301.1, if no
air handler or return ducts are installed in the crawlspace.
1.5 Drainage Plane and Drainage System
NOTE: Completion of the ENERGY STAR requirements now satisfies the
following Indoor airPLUS requirements:
<^ Install a continuous drainage plane behind exterior wall cladding that
overlaps flashing and is fully sealed at all penetrations (Builder- W
2.2).
<^ Install flashing or an equivalent drainage system at the bottom of
exterior walls to direct water away from the drainage plane and
foundation (Builder-W2.1).
No additional Indoor airPLUS Requirements
1.6 Window and Door Openings
NOTE: Completion of the ENERGY STAR requirements now satisfies the
following Indoor airPLUS requirement:
v' Fully flash all window and door openings, including pan flashing over
the rough sill framing, side flashing that extends over pan flashing
and top flashing that extends over side flashing (Builder-W 2.3).
No additional Indoor airPLUS Requirements
1.7 Gutters, Downspouts and Site Drainage
NOTE: Completion of the ENERGY STAR requirements now satisfies the
following Indoor airPLUS requirements:
<^ Direct roof water away from the house using gutters and downspouts
that empty into lateral piping on a sloping finish grade (Builder- W
3.2); OR
<^ Direct roof water to an underground catchment system not connected
to the foundation drain system that discharges water > 10ft. from
foundation (Builder-W3.2).
Additional Indoor airPLUS Requirements:
• Provide extra protection for water splash damage on homes
meeting one of the following ENERGY STAR exceptions for
gutters and downspouts: slab on grade homes, homes that
deposit rainwater to a grade-level rock bed with a waterproof
liner and drain pipe, or homes that use a continuous rubber
membrane system. Protection for water splash damage shall
be met by one of the following:
o Extend the foundation walls at least 16 in. above final
grade; OR
o Provide a drip line at eaves that is horizontally 16 in. away
from the edge of the foundation wall; OR
o Use cladding materials that are decay and rot resistant
and can tolerate regular wetting extending at least 16 in.
above final grade and install a well-sealed, continuous
drainage plane per manufacturer's instructions.
Advisory: The use of self-adhering moisture membranes
directly on exterior sheathing should be limited in these
applications to encourage drying potential of moisture
vapor through the wall assembly. A moisture resistant,
non-perforated, and vapor permeable housewrap is
preferred. (However, this may not be true for all wall
assemblies where 50% or more of the insulation is
outboard the structural assembly.)
Exceptions:
• Dry climates, as defined by 2009 IECC Figure 301.1.
• Homes with rainwater harvesting systems that are designed
to properly drain overflow, meeting discharge-distance
requirements outlined in ENERGY STAR Builder-W Item
number 3.2.
1.8 Roof to Wall Intersections and Roof Penetrations
NOTE: Completion of the ENERGY STAR requirements now satisfies the
following Indoor airPLUS requirements:
<^ Fully flash all roof-to-wall intersections and all roof penetrations using
step flashing for conventional roofs or continuous flashing for metal
and rubber membrane roofs (Builder-W 3.1).
<^ Install "kick-out" flashing at the low end of roof-to-wall intersections
(Builder-W 3.1).
No additional Indoor airPLUS Requirements
1.9 Roof Valleys and Decking
NOTE: Completion of the ENERGY STAR requirements now satisfies the
following Indoor airPLUS requirement:
<^ Install a self-sealing bituminous membrane or the equivalent at all
valleys and roof decking penetrations for durability at potential
failure points (Builder-W 3.3).
No additional Indoor airPLUS Requirements
1.10 Roof Eaves
NOTE: Completion of the ENERGY STAR requirements now satisfies the
following Indoor airPLUS requirement:
v' Install ice flashing over the sheathing at eaves to provide protection
from ice dams in climate zones 5 and higher (Builder- W 3.4).
<^ Extend a self-sealing bituminous membrane or the equivalent ("ice
flashing") from the edge of the roof line to > 2 ft. up roof deck from
the interior plane of the exterior wall (Builder-W 3.4).
No additional Indoor airPLUS Requirements
1.11 Moisture-Resistant Materials and Moisture-Protective
Systems
NOTE: Completion of the ENERGY STAR requirements now satisfies the
following Indoor airPLUS requirements:
v' Install moisture-resistant backing material behind tub and shower
enclosures (Builder-W4.2).
Indoor airPLUS Version 1 (Rev. 03) Construction Specifications (October 2015) 5
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•S Install a corrosion-resistant drain pan properly draining to a
conspicuous point of disposal (Builder-W4.6).
Additional Indoor airPLUS Requirements:
• Install only water-resistant hard-surface flooring in kitchens,
bathrooms, entryways, laundry areas and utility rooms.
• Insulate water supply pipes in exterior walls with pipe wrap.
1.12 Class 1 Vapor Retarders
NOTE: Completion of the ENERGY STAR requirements now satisfies the
following Indoor airPLUS requirement:
v' Do not install Class 1 vapor retarders on the interior side of vapor
permeable insulation in below-grade exterior walls or in any exterior
walls in Warm-Humid climates (Builder-W 1.6 and4.3). Footnote:
Class 1 vapor retarders, such as mirrors, may be used if mounted with
clips or other spacers that allow air to circulate behind them.
No additional Indoor airPLUS Requirements
1.13 Materials with Signs of Water Damage or Mold
NOTE: Completion of the ENERGY STAR requirements now satisfies the
following Indoor airPLUS requirements:
<^ Building materials with visible signs of water damage or mold not
installed or allowed to remain. If mold is present, effort should be
made to remove all visible signs of mold (e.g., by damp wipe with
water and detergent). If removal methods are not effective, then the
material shall be replaced. However, stains that remain after damp
wipe are acceptable. Lumber with "sap stain fungi" is exempt from
this Item as long the lumber is structurally intact. (Builder-W4.4).
v' Do not enclose (e.g., with drywall) framing members and insulation
products having high moisture content. (Note: Lumber should not
exceed 18 percent moisture) (Builder-W4.5).
v' For wet-applied insulation, follow the manufacturer's drying
recommendations (Builder-W4.5).
No additional Indoor airPLUS Requirements
2. Radon
2.1 Radon-Resistant Construction
NOTE: Completion of the ENERGY STAR requirements now satisfies the
following Indoor airPLUS requirement:
<^ Air seal all sump covers (Builder- W 1.7).
Additional Indoor airPLUS Requirements:
• Construct homes in EPA Radon Zone 1 (see
www.epa.gov/radon/zonemap.html) with radon-resistant
features to conform to ASTM E1465; or IRC, Appendix F; or
NFPA 5000, Chapter 49. Consult EPA's "Building Radon Out"
(EPA 402-K-01-002) for general guidance on installing radon-
resistant features.
Visually verify the following requirements:
o Capillary break installed according to Specification 1.2,
irrespective of climate zone.
o A 3 or 4 in. diameter gas-tight vertical vent pipe, clearly
labeled to conform with the radon-resistant standard
used, e.g., "Radon Reduction System" or "Radon Pipe" or
"Radon System." The vent pipe shall be connected to an
open T-fitting in the aggregate layer (or connected to
geotextile drainage matting according to the
manufacturer's instructions) beneath the polyethylene
sheeting, extending up through the conditioned spaces
and terminating a minimum of 12 in. above the roof
opening. For crawlspaces, install at least 5 ft. of horizontal
perforated drain tile on either side of the T-fitting,
attached to the vertical radon vent pipe beneath the
sheeting and running parallel to the long dimension of the
house.
o Radon fan installed in the attic (i.e., an active system) OR
an electrical receptacle installed in an accessible attic
location near the radon vent pipe (i.e., a passive system)
to facilitate future fan installation if needed.
o Foundation air sealing with polyurethane caulk or the
equivalent at all slab openings, penetrations and control
or expansion joints.
Note: Consult local building codes to determine whether
additional radon requirements apply. In January 2013 ANSI-
AARST published a standard of practice for "Reducing Radon in
New Construction of 1&2 Family Dwellings and Townhouses
(CCAH-2013)", available atwww.aarst.org/bookstore.shtml.
Advisories:
1. Elevated levels of radon have been found in homes built in
all three zones on EPA's Map of Radon Zones. Consult your
state radon program for current information about radon in
your area. Go to www.epa.gov/radon/whereyoulive.html
and click on your state for contact information.
2. EPA recommends, but does not require, that all homes built
with radon-resistant features in EPA Radon Zone 1 pre-
emptively include a radon vent fan. EPA also recommends,
but does not require, radon-resistant features for homes
built in EPA Radon Zones 2 and 3. EPA further recommends
that all homes built in EPA Radon Zones 2 and 3 with radon-
resistant features be tested for radon prior to occupancy. A
radon vent fan should be installed when the test result is 4
pCi/L (the EPA action level) or more.
3. The U.S. Surgeon General and EPA recommend that all
homes built in Radon Zones 1, 2 and 3 be tested for radon.
Provide buyers with EPA's Citizen's Guide to Radon,
encourage them to test for radon and refer them to
www2.epa.gov/radon for more information.
4. If soil or groundwater contamination is suspected on or near
the building site (e.g., former industrial sites), volatile
chemical contaminants from soil gas or vapor intrusion into
a building may pose an IAQ risk. In such cases, EPA
recommends radon-resistant features consistent with
Specification 2.1, which can minimize or prevent the vapor
intrusion into a house. See the EPA Vapor Intrusion Primer
or ASTM E2600 for more information. You should also
consult your state, tribal, or local environmental regulatory
agency for information on the location of contaminated
sites, including those subject to Superfund (CERCLA),
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) cleanup
requirements, or the Brownfields program. Visit EPA's
"Where You Live" for more information.
3. Pest Barriers
3.1 Minimize Pathways for Pest Entry
NOTE: Completion of the ENERGY STAR requirements now satisfies the
following Indoor airPLUS requirements:
<^ Seal all penetrations and joints between the foundation and exterior
wall assemblies (Rater-F4.1 and4.3).
•S Air seal all sump covers (Builder-W 1.7).
Indoor airPLUS Version 1 (Rev. 03) Construction Specifications (October 2015) 6
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No additional Indoor airPLUS Requirements
Advisories:
1. When sealing larger gaps that provide potential points of entry
for rodents, copper or stainless steel wool is recommended in
addition to sealant.
2. Additional precautions should be taken in areas classified as
"Moderate to Heavy" termite infestation probability (as
identified by 2009 IRC Figure 301.2 [6]):
• Foundation walls should be solid concrete or masonry with a
top course of solid block, bond beam, or concrete-filled
block.
• Interior concrete slabs should be constructed with 6 x 6 in.
welded wire fabric, or the equivalent, and concrete walls
should be constructed with reinforcing rods to reduce
cracking.
• Sill plates should be made of metal or preservative-treated
wood.
3. Additional precautions should be taken in areas classified as
"Very Heavy" termite infestation probability (as identified by
2009 IRC Figure 301.2[6]) i.e., Alabama, Florida, Georgia,
Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina and parts of California
and Texas:
• Foam plastic insulation should not be installed on the
exterior face of below-grade foundation walls or under
slabs.
• Foam plastic insulation installed on the exterior of above-
grade foundation walls should be kept a minimum of 6 in.
above the final grade and any landscape bedding materials
and should be covered with moisture-resistant, pest-proof
material (e.g., fiber cement board or galvanized insect
screen at the bottom-edge of openings).
• Foam plastic insulation applied to the interior side of
conditioned crawlspace walls should be kept a minimum of 3
in. below the sill plate.
3.2 Rodent/Bird Screens for Building Openings
Indoor airPLUS Requirements:
• Provide corrosion-proof rodent/bird screens (e.g., copper or
stainless steel mesh) for all building openings that cannot be
fully sealed and caulked (e.g., ventilation system
intake/exhaust outlets and attic vent openings).
Exception: This requirement does not apply to clothes dryer
vents.
4. HVAC Systems
4.1 HVAC Sizing and Design
NOTE: Completion of the ENERGY STAR requirements now satisfies the
following Indoor airPLUS requirements:
<^ Calculate room-by-room heating and cooling design loads using
Unabridged ACCA ManualJ, 2013 ASHRAE Fundamentals, or other
methodology per the Authority Having Jurisdiction (HVAC-D 3).
<^ Select all heating and cooling equipment to accommodate the
calculated heating and cooling design loads using ACCA Manual S and
ENERGY STAR allowances, inclusive of the pressure drop from all
specified filters (HVAC-D 4).
Additional Indoor airPLUS Requirements:
• In "Warm-Humid" climates as defined by 2009 IECC Figure
301.1 (i.e., Climate Zone 1 and portions of Zones 2 and 3A
below the white line), equipment shall be installed with
sufficient latent capacity to maintain indoor relative humidity
(RH) at or below 60 percent. This requirement shall be met by
either:
o Additional dehumidification system(s), OR
o A central HVAC system equipped with additional controls
to operate in dehumidification mode.
Exception: Climate Zones 4-8, 3B, 3C and the portions of 3A and
2B above the white line as shown by 2009 IECC Figure 301.1.
Advisory: Although not required to meet this specification,
independent dehumidification is recommended in Climate Zones
4A and 3A above the white line as shown in 2009 IECC Figure
301.1.
4.2 Duct System Design and Installation
NOTE: Completion of the ENERGY STAR requirements now satisfies the
following Indoor airPLUS requirements:
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5.2 Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Indoor airPLUS Requirement:
• All homes equipped with combustion appliance(s) or an
attached garage shall have a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm
installed in a central location in the immediate vicinity of each
separate sleeping zone (e.g., in a hallway adjacent to
bedrooms.) The alarm(s) shall be hard-wired with a battery
back-up function and placed according to NFPA 720. The
alarms shall be certified by either CSA 6.19-01 or UL 2034.
5.3 Multi-Family Environmental Tobacco Smoke Protections
Indoor airPLUS Requirements:
• Reduce exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) in
multi-family buildings by:
o Prohibiting smoking in indoor common areas, specified
explicitly in building rental/lease agreements or condo/co-
op association covenants and restrictions.
o Locating designated outdoor smoking areas a minimum of
25 ft. from entries, outdoor air intakes and operable
windows.
o Minimizing uncontrolled pathways for ETS transfer
between individual dwelling units by sealing penetrations
in the walls, ceilings and floors of dwelling units; sealing
vertical chases adjacent to dwelling units; and applying
weather stripping to all doors in dwelling units leading to
common hallways.
Advisory: To ensure that air sealing will effectively prevent
migration of ETS, other air pollutants and odors between units in
multifamily structures, conduct air-tightness testing of each unit
in accordance with Section 802 of RESNET's Mortgage Industry
National Home Energy Rating Systems Standards. The maximum
air leakage rate should not exceed 0.3 CFM per square foot of the
dwelling unit's enclosure area, at an induced pressure difference
of 50 Pascals, where the enclosure area includes the floor area,
the ceiling area, and the demising and exterior wall areas.
5.4 Attached Garages
NOTE: Completion of the ENERGY STAR requirements now satisfies the
following Indoor airPLUS requirement:
v' Isolate attached garages from conditioned spaces as follows:
o Air-seal common walls and ceilings between attached garages and
living spaces before installing insulation (Rater-F 2.4, 2.6, and 4.7).
o Use weather stripping or equivalent gasket to ensure all doors
between living spaces and attached garages are substantially air-
tight (Rater-F 4.9).
Additional Indoor airPLUS Requirements:
• Install an automatic door closer on all connecting doors
between living spaces and attached garages, AND
• In homes with exhaust-only whole house ventilation meet one
of the following two requirements:
o Equip the attached garage with an exhaust fan with a
minimum installed capacity of 70 cfm that is vented
directly outdoors. The fan shall be wired for continuous
operation or with automatic fan controls (e.g., a motion
detector) that activate the fan whenever the garage is
occupied and operate for at least 1 hour after the garage
has been vacated. If a ducted fan (not through-the-wall)
is used, test and verify minimum capacity of 70 cfm, OR
o Verify that the garage-to-house air barrier can maintain
a pressure difference of greater than 45 Pascals while
the home maintains a 50 Pascal pressure difference with
respect to the outdoors. All operable garage openings
shall be closed during this test.
Advisories:
1. EPA recommends installing a garage exhaust fan if the
homebuyer is expected to occupy the garage for work or
recreational activities over extended periods of time.
2. ENERGY STAR certified fans are highly recommended.
3. Provide occupants with information in the Buyer Information
Kit on the importance of, and methods for, ensuring adequate
ventilation in the garage while occupied for extended periods
of time.
6. Low-Emission Materials
Download How to Find Indoor airPLUS Compliant Low Emission
Products, which provides guidance on identifying compliant
products including industry databases and examples of product
labeling.
Note: The evaluation, certification and labeling of products for
indoor emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is complex
and evolving. EPA has not established threshold levels for indoor
VOC emissions from any of the product categories addressed in
these specifications. The third-party programs referenced in these
specifications include U.S. programs that are designed to reduce
human exposure indoors to individual VOCs of potential concern for
human health effects, compared to similar products not certified as
low-VOC or no-VOC. EPA will consider modifying these
specifications to include additional third-party programs as
appropriate.
6.1 Composite Wood
NOTE: The following requirements pertain to ALL composite wood
products installed in the home during construction. Examples include but
are not limited to: structural panels, cabinetry, shelving, trim, doors, stair
treads, flooring, etc.
Indoor airPLUS Requirements:
• Structural plywood and oriented strand board (OSB): Use only
products certified compliant with:
o PS1 or PS2, as appropriate, and made with moisture-
resistant adhesives as indicated by "Exposure 1" or
"Exterior" on the American Plywood Association (APA)
trademark.
• Hardwood plywood: Use only products certified compliant
with:
o Formaldehyde emissions requirements of ANSI/HPVA HP-1-
2009; OR
o California Airborne Toxics Control Measure (ATCM) to
Reduce Formaldehyde Emissions from Composite Wood
Products.
• Particleboard and MDF products: Use only products certified
compliant with:
Indoor airPLUS Version 1 (Rev. 03) Construction Specifications (October 2015) 9
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o California ATCM to Reduce Formaldehyde Emissions from
Composite Wood Products; OR
o Formaldehyde emissions requirements of ANSI A208.1
(particleboard) and A208.2 (MDF); OR
o ECCSustainability Standard by the Composite Panel
Association; OR
o GREENGUARD or GREENGUARD GOLD Certification.
• Cabinetry: Made with component materials (plywood,
particleboard, MDF) that are certified to comply with:
o The appropriate standards above; OR
o Registered brands or products produced in plants certified
under the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association's
(KCMA) Environmental Stewardship Certification Program
(ESP 05-12); OR
o GREENGUARD or GREENGUARD GOLD Certification for
Cabinetry.
Note: "No added formaldehyde" (NAF) or "Ultra-low emitting
formaldehyde" (ULEF) products that are specifically exempted
from the California ATCM to Reduce Formaldehyde Emissions
from Composite Wood Products are compliant with Indoor
airPLUS.
6.2 Interior Paints and Finishes
Indoor airPLUS Requirements:
• At least 90 percent of the interior surface area covered by site-
applied paints and coatings shall use low-VOC or no-VOC
products certified by one of the following third-party standards
or certifications:
o GREENGUARD or GREENGUARD GOLD Certification for
Paints and Coatings, OR
o Scientific Certification Systems (SCS) Standard EC-10.2-
2007, Indoor Advantage Gold, OR
o A third-party low-emitting product list based on CA
Section 01350 (CDPH Standard Method VI.1-2010), OR
o Green Seal Standard GS-11, OR
o Green Wise and Green Wise Gold products, OR
o Master Painters Institute (MPI) Green Performance
Standards X-Green, GPS-1 or GPS-2.
6.3 Carpets and Carpet Adhesives
Indoor airPLUS Requirements:
• At least 90 percent of the interior surface area covered by
carpet and carpet adhesives must use products labeled with, or
otherwise documented as meeting, the Carpet and Rug
Institute (CRI) Green Label Plus testing program criteria.
• For carpet cushion (i.e., padding), use only products certified to
meet the CRI Green Label Plus or Green Label testing program
criteria.
6.4 Adhesives and Sealants
Advisory: While not currently required by Indoor airPLUS, EPA
recommends that at least 90 percent of site-applied interior
adhesives and sealants be low-VOC or no-VOC products certified
by one of the following third-party standards or certifications:
• A third-party low-emitting product list based on CA
Section 01350 (CDPH Standard Method VI.1-2010), OR
• Green Seal GS-36, OR
• GREENGUARD or GREENGUARD GOLD certification for
adhesives and sealants.
7. Home Commissioning
7.1 HVAC and Ductwork Verification
Indoor airPLUS Requirements:
• Inspect ductwork before installing registers, grilles and
diffusers to verify it is dry and substantially free of dust or
debris. If duct openings were not covered during construction,
thoroughly vacuum out each opening prior to installing
registers, grilles and diffusers.
• After all dust-producing construction activities are complete
(e.g., drywall, trim carpentry, floor sanding), verify HVAC filters
are new, clean, and meet specified MERV rating (see
Specification 4.7).
Advisory: Air balancing of supply registers and return grilles is
highly recommended to improve the performance of the HVAC
system and comfort of the occupants, but is not required at this
time for Indoor airPLUS qualification.
7.2 Ventilation after Material Installation
Indoor airPLUS Requirements:
• Ventilate the home with outside air at the highest rate and
duration practical, meeting ventilation requirements for
outdoor air flow and humidity control (see Specifications 4.5
and 4.8):
o During and shortly after installing products that are
known sources of contaminants (e.g., cabinets, carpet
padding and painting), AND
o During the period between finishing and occupancy.
Advisory: If whole house ventilation cannot be scheduled prior to
occupancy, advise the buyer to operate the ventilation system at
the highest rate it can provide during the first few months of
occupancy, meeting the above requirements.
7.3 Buyer Information Kit
Indoor airPLUS Requirements:
• Provide buyers with information and documentation of the
home's IAQ protections, including:
o An Indoor airPLUS label and certificate.
o Operations and maintenance instruction manuals for all
installed equipment and systems addressed by Indoor
airPLUS and ENERGY STAR requirements, including HVAC
systems and accessories, combustion appliances and any
radon system.
Advisory: Provide the homebuyer with information that
addresses the importance of ensuring that manually controlled
ventilation options (e.g., bathroom, garage (if applicable), kitchen
exhaust fans; operable windows, and doors, etc.) are used when
strong pollutant sources are present, such as when using
common household products (e.g., cleaning products, pesticides)
and when using the garage for hobbies or other pollutant
generating activities.
Indoor airPLUS Version 1 (Rev. 03) Construction Specifications (October 2015) 10
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Abbreviations
CFDS
cfm
ETS
fpm
ft.
HERS
HVAC
IAQ
in.
mil
min.
Composite Foundation Drainage System
cubic feet per minute
Environmental Tobacco Smoke
feet per minute
feet
Home Energy Rating System
heating, ventilating and air-conditioning
indoor air quality
inches
common term to describe plastic sheeting
thickness; 1 mil equals 0.001 inches
minimum
MDF
MERV
OSB
Pa
pCi/L
Rev.
sq.ft.
spec
VOC
w.c.
medium density fiberboard
Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value;
defined in ASHRAE 52.2-2007
oriented strand board
Pascal
picocuries per liter
Revision
square foot
specification
Volatile Organic Compound
water column
Indoor airPLUS Version 1 (Rev. 03) Construction Specifications (October 2015) 11
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References
ACCA Man D: ACCA Manual D: Residential Duct Systems. 2009. Air
Conditioning Contractors of America.
ACCA Man J: ACCA Manual J: Residential Load Calculation - 8th Ed.
2009. Air Conditioning Contractors of America.
ANSI A208.1: ANSI A208.1: Standard Particleboard. 2009. American
National Standards Institute.
ANSI A208.2: ANSI A208.2: Standard for Medium Density
Fiberboard (MDF) for Interior Applications. 2009. American National
Standards Institute.
ANSI/AARST CCAH 2012: ANSI/AARST Standard: Reducing Radon in
New Construction of 1 & 2 Family Dwellings and Townhouses. 2012.
American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists.
ANSI/HPVA HP-1-2009: American National Standard for Hardwood
and Decorative Plywood. 2009. American National Standards
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ANSI Z21.88/CSA 2.33: ANSI Standard Z21.88-2014/CSA Standard
2.33-2014: Vented Gas Fireplace Heaters. 2014. American National
Standards Institute/Canadian Standards Association.
APA: American Plywood Association provides a voluntary product
standard for structural plywood and oriented strand board (OSB).
http://www.apawood.org/plvwood.
ASHRAE Handbooks: ASHRAE Handbook Series. American Society of
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ASHRAE 52.2: ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 52.2-2007: Method of Testing
General Ventilation Air-Cleaning Devices for Removal Efficiency by
Particle Size. 2007. American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and
Air-Conditioning Engineers.
ASHRAE 62.2: ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 62.2-2010: Ventilation and
Acceptable Indoor Air Quality in Low-Rise Residential Buildings.
2010. American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-
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ASTM E1465: ASTM Standard E1465-08a: Standard Practice for
Radon Control Options for the Design and Construction of New
Low-Rise Residential Buildings. 2008. American Society for Testing
and Materials.
ASTM E1509: ASTM Standard E1509-04: Standard Specification for
Room Heaters, Pellet Fuel-Burning Type. 2004. American Society for
Testing and Materials.
ASTM E2600: ASTM Standard E2600-10: Standard Guide for Vapor
Encroachment Screening on Property Involved In Real Estate
Transactions. 2010. American Society for Testing and Materials.
ASTM E1602: ASTM Standard E1602-03(2010) el: Standard Guide
for Construction of Solid Fuel Burning Masonry Heaters. 2010.
American Society for Testing and Materials.
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Section 01350: Special Environmental Requirements Specification:
Standard Method for the Testing and Evaluation of Volatile Organic
Chemical Emissions from Indoor Environmental Chambers. 2010.
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California Airborne Toxics Control Measure (ATCM) to Reduce
Formaldehyde Emissions from Composite Wood Products. CA Title
17, Section 93120.
www.arb.ca.gov/toxics/compwood/compwood.htm.
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and
Liability Act (CERCLA): Known asSuperfund, authorizes EPA to
respond to releases, or threatened releases of hazardous
substances that may endanger public health, welfare, or the
environment.
CRI Green Label: Carpet and Rug Institute Green Label Testing
Programs.
CRI Green Label Plus: Carpet and Rug Institute Green Label Plus
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Programs/Green-Label-Plus/Carpet,-Adhesive-Cushion.aspx.
CSA 6.19-01: CAN/CSA Standard 6.19-01: Residential Carbon
Monoxide Alarming Devices. 2006. Canadian Standards Association.
Eco-Certified Composite (ECC) Sustainability Standard (CPA 4-11):
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ENERGY STAR Certified Homes Version 3 Checklists: U.S.
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http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=bldrs lenders raters.nh v
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Step-by-Step Guide On How to Build Radon-Resistant Homes. 2001.
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provides guidance on identifying compliant products.
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emission-products.
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Environmental Protection Agency.
EPA's New Source Performance Standard: Clean air standards for
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Green Wise and Green Wise Gold Standard: Certified by Coatings
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IRC: International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family
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KCMA ESP 05-12: Environmental Stewardship Program. 2012.
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Detection and Warning Equipment. 2012. National Fire Protection
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NFPA 5000: Building and Construction Safety Code. 2012. National
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PS1-09: Voluntary Product Standard, PS 1-09, Structural Plywood
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PS2-10: Performance Standard for Wood-based Structural-Use
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onal HERS Standards.pdf
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA): Public law that
creates the framework for the proper management of hazardous
and non-hazardous solid waste.
SCS-EC-10.2-2007: Scientific Certification Systems (SCS) Indoor Air
Quality Performance Environmental Certification Program: Indoor
Advantage Gold. 2007. Scientific Certification Systems.
UL 127: Standard for Factory-Built Fireplaces. 2011. Underwriters
Laboratories, Inc.
UL 181 A: Standard for Closure Systems for Use with Rigid Air Ducts.
2008. Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.
UL 181B: Standard for Closure Systems for Use with Flexible Air
Ducts and Air Connectors. 2008. Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.
UL 1482: Standard for Solid-Fuel Type Room Heaters. 2011.
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.
UL 2034: Standard for Single and Multiple Station Carbon Monoxide
Alarms. 2008. Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.
Indoor airPLUS Version 1 (Rev. 03) Construction Specifications (October 2015) 13
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SEPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Air and Radiation (6609J)
EPA-402-K-13/001 I Revised October 2015
Homes with the Indoor airPLUS label are designed
for improved indoor air quality compared to homes
built to minimum code.
www2.epa.gov/indoorairplus
Indoor airPLUS Version 1 (Rev. 03) Construction Specifications (October 2015) 15
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