Burns Paiute Tribe Pressure Testing and Sealing Homes for a Safer, Healthier, and More Cost Efficient Environment

Information by State  Print version   Useful Links For more information on healthy homes and indoor air quality visit:   EPA Page on Indoor Air Quality   Washington State Division of Environmental Health   HUD Office of Healthy Homes and Lead Hazard Control   US Department of Energy - ASHRAE's Top 10—How to Ensure Good Indoor Air Quality Contact Us Jody Hill, Executive Director Burns Paiute Tribe Housing Department HC-71, 100 PaSiGo Street Burns, OR 97720 (541) 573-2088, Ext. 258 j.hill@burnspaiute-nsn.gov

The Burns Paiute Tribe is the first tribe in 14 years to become a direct weatherization testing sub-recipients from the State of Oregon.

With equipment provided through a grant from the Bonneville Power Association, the housing department can test for carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide levels, and number of air exchanges per hour their homes. An infrared camera detects hot and cool spots throughout the home.

Cory Johnson, Burns Paiute Housing staff, prepares to run a pressurized blower door test

The housing department has a goal to pressure test all 51 homes in their inventory for leaks. By utilizing a various tools, they are able to determine where unhealthy air (from crawl

space, attic, garage, and basements) is entering the home. These spaces are sealed and the home re-tested for unhealthy leaks.

Burns, Oregon is fortunate in being a dry climate, which negates the need for mechanical ventilation in their homes. There is also a strong focus on resident education with an emphasis on keeping homes clean and naturally ventilated, reporting plumbing leaks, and eliminating un-vented combustible appliances.

Combined these measures are creating healthier, more energy efficient homes for their families.