Ventilation InstallationInstallation – New Builds & Retro Fits
Generally speaking, for new builds, centralised ventilation is recommended as the ventilation systems can be engineered to precise specification dependant on the size and requirements of the individual dwelling. Centralised ventilation can be seamlessly be integrated into the home or office with a prior level of planning required to run ductwork and install inlets/outlets. New builds are not only limited to centralised ventilation; decentralised ventilation can also be utilised.
In terms of retrofits (home renovations/modernisations), decentralised ventilation is prefered as ductwork does not need to be installed. Often existing dwellings do not have the required free space to run overhead ducting, therefore installing decentralised ventilation on the outer walls is preferred.
Holistic Thinking
The most vital consideration in either above case? The energy efficiency of the dwelling. Working with an air-tight, Passive House style design is always going to be the best, here are some factors that you might also consider;
Insulation, Insulation, Insulation.
Making sure your roof and walls are insulated is similar to ensuring you go outside in appropriate clothing. It makes a large difference when aiming to achieve a stable indoor tmeperature. Make sure yours is up to standard to get the most benefit.
Window Glazing, double or even triple
High performance windows further maintain stable temperatures, keeping heat in or out dependant on indoor/outdoor climate.
Environment – House Orientation, or geographic location
Really only applicable to a build—but using orientation to capture the sun and physical landscape to work with the elements and existing terrain as a buffer or a thermal mass is always a good idea.
Ventilation
Combined with an airtight design, mechanical ventilation can recover heat and cool that would otherwise be wasted, while also filtering incoming air into the home. Fresh and warm air—win, win. Read more about ventilation here.
Thermal Bridges
All of the insulation in the world can be undone if there are conductive surfaces transporting your hardearnt heat or cold from inside, outside. This can be a huge and hidden efficiency drainer, metal window frames without a thermal break are a prime suspect. Read more about thermal bridges here.