Caution with Negative Air: Preventing Unintended Consequences

Using negative air machines or exhaust ventilation is a smart move during mold remediation or dust control—but it can backfire if not balanced properly.

Why it matters:

  • Creating too much negative pressure can pull air in from unwanted places, like the attic or crawlspace
  • It can backdraft gas appliances, drawing carbon monoxide into the living space

To stay safe:

  • Consult with a licensed HVAC technician when using aggressive ventilation strategies
  • Ensure make-up air is available and balanced
  • Avoid running strong exhaust fans in tight homes without understanding the airflow impact

Ventilation is powerful—but it has to be done thoughtfully to protect both air quality and safety.