Ventilation Systems

About Ventilation Systems

When pollutants enter a home, no one wants them to hang around long. Ventilation systems ensure that the old air leaves any space and that fresh, breathable air enters. For homes without proper ventilation, the air will quickly become stale or even dangerous with excessive bacteria. 

The Advantages of Home & Office Ventilation

The right system keeps people in a home safe. It ensures that people are comfortable and keeps them in good health. Installing the proper system for keeping a home breathable is not a luxury but a necessity. 

Most homes have some way to create a breeze, such as ceiling fans. These are great for general circulation but only do so much for people's health overall. Here are some of the advantages of a proper ventilation system:

• Expel pollutants, bacteria, moisture, and unpleasant odours. 
• Better air quality leads to better health. 
• Control the flow of air in and out and lower the cost of energy bills. 
• Reduce the risk of mould by controlling the humidity, similar to dehumidifiers. 
• Lower the temperature in crowded spaces. This is especially important in commercial ventilation with many employees in a tight area. 

Different Types of Ventilation Systems

There isn't just one kind of system, which means anyone can find the type of home ventilation products that work best for their home. Each has its advantages, so understanding each will help in knowing which may be better for certain homes over others. 

Mechanical Ventilation Systems

For most air circulation, filtration, and air control, mechanical ventilation systems work hard to keep any space as clean and comfortable as possible. By actively exchanging old air for new and improving the circulation of oxygen and carbon dioxide, it's the most direct way of improving a home's air. 

Passive Ventilation Systems

Also referred to as natural, passive ventilation systems mean that a home relies on nature's forces to circulate the air inside. While this is an excellent way of saving money, nature isn't always reliable. Passive products monitor the air in any space and only kick in when needed, ensuring comfort while still saving money. 

Ventilation Components

The beauty of shopping by ventilation components is that it can create a system that works to meet any home's needs. These components include air ducts, roofing fans, air filtering, and more. Professionals can help homeowners mix and match the elements that will serve them. 

Heat Recovery Ventilation

Heat recovery ventilation brings in new air while also heating it as it enters a home. This means the heaters don't need to warm incoming air constantly. By taking away some work that heaters would otherwise need to do, the system lowers the cost of a family's heating bills while improving the air quality. 

Factors to Consider

Air Filters

The systems for circulation do a great job of bringing in the fresh air and expelling the old. However, they are not air filtration products. This means that while filtration may be an additional feature, proper filtration isn't a guarantee. Some systems will have better filters than others. If it's important, check for purifications effects of included filters. 

HVAC Connections

All central heating and cooling require ventilation systems. For best results, these two must work together. Some air quality components are better for specific HVAC designs. 

Dos and Don'ts

Don't Overdo It

Everyone wants fresh air in their home. But too much of it and an HVAC won't be able to keep up. This is where having a professional opinion is key to knowing how much a house truly needs from home ventilation. When energy bills are rising after installing a new system, this is a sign that something isn't right. 

Do Remember the Fireplace

Any fireplaces should have their own system. But if homeowners notice problems with breathing around a fireplace, something may be wrong. Make sure that fireplaces can draw in their fresh air and also have the proper home ventilation to expel it. 

Style

Home ventilation doesn't need to be an eyesore. Products range in size, colour, and design. Some are sleek, modern, and designed to be mounted on walls. This is perfect for small spaces like a bathroom where space is limited. Or the focus can be on outdoor components that bring the air in without affecting indoor decor. 

Installation

Homeowners can do the installation themselves, especially for simple products. However, closely monitoring the effects on a home after installation is essential to ensure it has been installed correctly. For example, energy bills are a great indicator, and an air quality test before and after installation will show the level of success.

If air quality doesn't improve and energy bills are rising, it may be time for a professional's help. For those who want it done correctly the first time, opting for a professional may be the best option. 

Care and Maintenance

To make sure that a home ventilation system is functioning properly, there are a few things homeowners should do themselves or have done by a pro regularly. That includes:

• Check for blocked filters.
• Clean heat exchange surfaces for better efficiency.
• Unblock drains.
• Ensure that all controls are calibrated correctly.