Which of the following is a benefit of mechanical ventilation?

Mechanical ventilation plays a crucial role in enhancing indoor air quality by actively bringing in fresh outdoor air while expelling stale indoor air. One of the significant benefits of mechanical ventilation is its ability to filter pollutants from indoor air. This system can include various types of filters that capture particulate matter, allergens, and other harmful substances, thereby improving the overall air quality within a space.

The filtering capabilities allow occupants to breathe cleaner air, which is particularly important in environments where indoor air can be laden with contaminants from building materials, furnishings, and other sources. As such, this function of mechanical ventilation is vital for promoting health and well-being, especially for individuals with respiratory issues.

In contrast, while mechanical ventilation can impact energy consumption and humidity levels, these aspects are not universally beneficial. Systems require some level of maintenance to operate effectively, which is not the case for the correct option. Understanding these contrasting features helps in recognizing why filtering pollutants is a key advantage of employing mechanical ventilation in indoor environments.