Add BrightSurf on Google Email

When blackouts occur during heat waves, Austin homes pose major risk

A new study assesses indoor heat vulnerability for each single-family home in Austin, finding that 85% of homes would pose significant risk to an elderly person during a power outage. The city can now take a methodical approach to mitigating risk through cooling centers and home weatherization programs.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalBuilding and Environment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 10, 2026

Detailed map of US air-conditioning usage shows who can beat the heat — and who can’t

A researcher at the University of Kansas has created a comprehensive map of US air conditioning usage, revealing regional disparities in access to cooling systems. The dataset provides valuable insights for public health officials, urban planners, and policymakers to identify areas lacking adequate cooling and inform energy efficiency ...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalScientific Data·DateOct 31, 2025

If every home and personal vehicle went electric in the U.S., power outages could spike — unless key measures are taken

A new study by Purdue University engineers warns that a nationwide switch to electric homes and vehicles could overwhelm the power supply, leading to increased risk of outages. However, key measures such as home insulation, equipment efficiency, and coordinated device operation can reduce costs by up to 40%.

SourcePurdue University·JournalCell Reports Sustainability·DateSep 16, 2025

Airborne Detection

Researchers at East Carolina University have discovered a new way to detect SARS-CoV-2 by testing air passing through building ventilation systems. The method revealed the presence of the virus in air samples with high accuracy, potentially leading to earlier detection and reduced transmission.

SourceEast Carolina University·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateNov 10, 2021

Poorly circulated room air raises potential exposure to contaminants by up to 6 times

New experiments found that poorly mixed room air can lead to increased exposure to airborne contaminants, with occupants at risk of respiratory aerosols from others up to 5-6 times higher. Portable air cleaners using air pull-down can provide a simple solution to improve ventilation and reduce the risk.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalIndoor Air·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2021

Packages to simplify deep renovation of buildings

A European project developed standard solutions for energy refurbishment, considering various climate zones. These packages include prefabricated façades, decentralized ventilation systems, and smart ceiling fans to reduce energy consumption and improve comfort. Pilot sites showed significant savings and improvements in tenant well-being.

SourceEurac Research·TypeCase study·DateSep 8, 2021

Study examines indoor exposure to air pollution

A recent study found that short-term wood burning in small-scale room heaters and sauna stoves significantly increased residents' daily exposure to particulate air pollution. The study highlights the importance of natural ventilation in reducing indoor levels of hazardous particles.

SourceWiley·JournalIndoor Air·DateFeb 21, 2019