Choosing the right ventilation system for a single-family home is a decision that can affect not only the comfort, but also the health of the occupants and the energy efficiency of the building. In this article, we'll take a look at why choosing the right ventilation is crucial, what factors to consider when making this decision, and what benefits can come from investing in a high-quality ventilation system.
Choosing ventilation
Which ventilation manufacturer should you choose?
Choosing a proven ventilation manufacturer ensures good performance, quality and safety of the ventilation system. High-quality ventilation designed by experienced manufacturers often guarantees better energy efficiency. This means that it will exchange air more efficiently with less energy consumption, which will contribute to lower building operating costs. One such company is Universal. Other manufacturers worth noting are AirIDEA, Blauberg and DARCO Ventlab . The full list of manufacturers we recommend can be found in the search engine of the Products for Home portal under the keyword "ventilation".
How does ventilation work?
Ventilation is the process of air exchange indoors, aimed at maintaining proper air quality and regulating temperature and humidity. The main purpose of ventilation is to provide fresh air to rooms and to remove polluted air, which can contain various types of particles, moisture, smoke, chemical fumes and other harmful or undesirable substances. Proper ventilation is important for the health and comfort of the occupants and for the long-term maintenance of the building. Depending on the type of premises and climatic conditions, an appropriate ventilation system may be necessary.
The basic methods of ventilation are:
Natural ventilation
It is based on the natural flow of air through openings such as windows, doors and vents. Air movement is created by the temperature difference between the interior and exterior of the building and the action of the wind.
Mechanical ventilation
Uses mechanical devices such as fans, heat recuperators (devices that recover heat from exhaust air), air conditioners to actively exchange air and maintain optimal indoor conditions.
What functions does ventilation perform?
Providing fresh air
Ventilation improves indoor air quality by providing adequate oxygen and reducing the concentration of carbon dioxide, which in large quantities can be harmful.
Removing contaminants
Ventilation helps eliminate air pollutants such as cigarette smoke, chemical fumes, dust or moisture, which contributes to a healthier indoor environment.
Controlling temperature and humidity
Ventilation can help regulate indoor temperature and humidity, which is important both for occupant comfort and to protect the home from moisture and mold.
Preventing odors
Air exchange helps reduce unpleasant odors that can accumulate in enclosed spaces.
Preventing condensation
Ventilation can help avoid condensation on surfaces by preventing excessive moisture.
Ventilation improves air quality
© ZEHNDER
Who installs the ventilation?
Depending on the scale of the project, the type of building and local regulations and standards, different people or companies may be responsible for installing the ventilation. Here are some potential entities that may be involved in the ventilation execution process:
HVAC engineers
Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) specialists are the people responsible for designing and managing ventilation systems in buildings. They analyze ventilation needs, design appropriate systems, select equipment and coordinate installation.
Installation companies
Companies specializing in the installation of HVAC and ventilation systems are responsible for the physical installation of ventilation components in buildings. They may employ professionals to install pipes, fans, heat recuperators and other ventilation equipment.
Architects
Architects who design buildings include ventilation aspects in their designs. They take care of the placement of ventilation openings, such as windows and grilles, to ensure proper air circulation and access to natural light.
How long does it take to install ventilation?
Ventilation installation time can vary significantly depending on several factors, such as the size of the building, the type of ventilation, the complexity of the installation, the availability of materials and the skill of the installation team. The process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, or even longer for larger and more complex projects. It is best to agree on the expected installation time with the company or specialist that is installing the ventilation for your specific project. It is important to take into account all factors that may affect the duration of the work, and adjust expectations to the actual situation.
Air distribution diagram
© ZEHNDER
What does the ventilation installation process look like?
Design and planning
The first step is to make a ventilation design. HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) specialists analyze the individual requirements of the building and its occupants, taking into account the size of the rooms, the number of people, etc. Based on this data, they create a ventilation design, which includes the selection of the type of system (e.g. natural ventilation, mechanical ventilation), the location of vents, the layout of ducts, types of fans, etc.
Preparation of materials
Once the design is approved, the materials needed for installation are prepared, such as pipes, ducts, fans, heat recuperators, ventilation grilles, filters, etc.
Installation of ducts, pipes and ventilation equipment
Based on the design, the installation teams proceed to install ventilation ducts and pipes. Supply and exhaust ducts are installed, which carry fresh air into the rooms and remove used air outside. Fans, heat recuperators (if planned), air conditioners (in the case of air-conditioning ventilation) and other devices that are part of the ventilation system are installed.
Location of ventilation openings
Windows, doors, vents and other elements that allow air to flow freely between the interior and exterior of the building are installed.
Testing and adjustment
Once the installation is complete, the ventilation system is tested to make sure it is working properly and meets design requirements. Air flow measurements are taken, the effectiveness of any heat recuperation is checked, and fan performance is adjusted.
Air quality control
For more advanced ventilation systems, air quality tests may be conducted to verify that the system is delivering the right amount of fresh air and meeting safety standards.
User training and documentation
Building owners are usually trained on how to use the ventilation system, how to care for the filters, and how to adjust ventilation operation to ensure comfort and efficiency. All documents, including blueprints, technical drawings, equipment manuals, certificates and other documents related to ventilation installation, must be kept for possible maintenance, service and inspection.
Maintenance and service
The ventilation system requires regular maintenance and service to maintain efficiency and effectiveness. Filters should be changed regularly, and the entire system must be inspected and maintained as recommended by the manufacturer and HVAC specialists.
Ventilation in the bathroom prevents the growth of mold and mildew
© ZEHNDER
In which rooms is ventilation necessary?
Ventilation is important in virtually all rooms, but the degree of need for ventilation can vary depending on the type of room and its purpose. Here are some of the rooms where ventilation is particularly important:
Bedrooms
Good ventilation in bedrooms is crucial to ensure healthy sleep and comfort. Proper flow helps keep the air fresh and clean, which is important for sleep quality.
Kitchens
Kitchens are a place where a lot of fumes, vapors and moisture are generated. Effective ventilation in kitchens is necessary to remove contaminated air and reduce the effects of excessive moisture and odors.
Bathrooms
In bathrooms, we generate moisture when we take a bath, which can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. Ventilation in the bathroom therefore helps prevent health problems.
Utility rooms
Laundry rooms, dryers or pantries, may require ventilation to ensure proper storage conditions and avoid excess moisture.
***
We encourage you to use the database of reputable and reliable ventilation manufacturers we are building in the Products for Home portal, as well as the articles we publish about ventilation.
