What should be done if ducts were not sealed during mid-construction to achieve credit for Indoor Contaminant Control?

The correct response is rooted in the need to maintain indoor air quality by effectively managing the contaminants that can accumulate in the ductwork during construction. Cleaning and sealing the ducts after construction helps remove any dust, debris, or other particulate matter that may have entered during the building process, thus ensuring that the air distributed through the ventilation system is clean and safe for occupants.

By cleaning the ducts, you effectively remove any contaminants that could negatively impact indoor air quality. Sealing the ducts afterward prevents future contamination from entering the system, which is an essential step in maintaining the effectiveness of the indoor air quality strategies required for achieving LEED credits.

The other options do not directly address the need to remediate the issues created by unsealed ducts. Simply replacing ducts would be unnecessary and not cost-effective. Adding additional filters might not adequately solve the underlying problem of contamination and would also depend on the occupants' needs and building design. Increasing ventilation rates can improve air quality but does not provide a solution to the existing contamination already present in the ductwork. Instead, cleaning and sealing provide a comprehensive approach to addressing the situation effectively.