Better Building Choices: My Go-To Mechanical Systems for a Healthy, Sustainable Home

By, Kate Hamblet

Ducted Range Hood

A Ducted Range Hood is non-negotiable in a healthy kitchen. Cooking releases harmful pollutants like nitrogen dioxide and fine particles into the air. A properly sized, ducted range hood vents those contaminants outside, keeping your indoor air cleaner. Recirculating hoods just can’t compare.

Air-Source Heat Pumps

Air-Source Heat Pumps are my top choice for heating and cooling. Instead of burning fuel, they move heat into or out of your home depending on the season. Modern models work well even in cold climates, offering year-round comfort with a fraction of the energy use of gas furnaces or conventional air conditioners. They’re quiet, easy to control, and much healthier since they don’t emit combustion byproducts indoors. Installation costs are typically higher than a conventional furnace, but rebates and incentives are often available to help with the upfront cost. And since they’re so energy efficient, you’ll save money over furnaces and typical air conditioners in the long run.

Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs)

Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) provide fresh air while maintaining energy efficiency. These systems continuously bring in filtered outdoor air and exhaust stale indoor air, recovering heat and moisture between the two air streams in the process. The result is cleaner, healthier indoor air and better humidity control without big energy losses. This is especially important in tightly built homes that don’t “breathe” on their own. Most building codes require balanced ventilation systems like an ERV now, and in an air-tight house, you really can’t go without them.

Makeup Air Systems

Makeup Air Systems are sometimes needed when your range hood pulls more than about 400 CFM, though I’ve found that even in less powerful range hoods, a makeup air system would be beneficial. They bring in fresh air to balance the powerful exhaust, preventing negative pressure that could cause backdrafting or pull in unfiltered air through leaks.

Heat Pump Water Heaters

Heat Pump Water Heaters are another great all-electric option. They work by pulling heat from the surrounding air and transferring it into the water tank. This makes them two to three times more efficient than standard electric or gas water heaters. They’re ideal for basements or utility rooms because they also help dehumidify the space. Be aware that these water heaters can make a little bit of noise, and they cool the air around them, so you don’t want to place them in locations where that could cause discomfort.

Pictured is an LG Heat Pump Water Heater

Heat Pump Dryers

Heat Pump Dryers are efficient, ventless alternatives to traditional dryers. Instead of blowing moist air outside, they recycle and reheat the air within the machine, reducing energy use and simplifying installation. They’re gentler on clothes and great for tight spaces where venting isn’t practical. Though they can take a bit longer to dry, most homeowners quickly adapt to the tradeoff.

Choosing these systems sets the foundation for a comfortable, efficient, and truly healthy home. While the upfront costs can be higher than conventional options, long-term energy savings, rebates, and health benefits make them well worth it. Best of all, going all-electric is a major step toward a fossil-fuel-free future—one that supports both your family’s wellness and the planet.

By, Kate Hamblet

The Wellness Architect Balanced Architecture

Kate helps health-conscious families create homes that support and promote health, happiness and longevity. You'll find her at www.balancedarchitecture.com