Continuous ventilation systems are becoming increasingly popular in the UK housing market due to their effectiveness in maintaining indoor air quality and energy efficiency. These systems operate 24 hours a day at a low ‘Trickle Rate’ and can be boosted to higher extraction rates when necessary, making them suitable for various living environments.
Continuous ventilation refers to a mechanical ventilation strategy that ensures a constant flow of fresh air into a building while simultaneously extracting stale, contaminated air. This process is crucial for managing indoor air quality, reducing humidity levels, and preventing the accumulation of pollutants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon dioxide (CO2), and moisture.
How It Works
- Trickle Rate Operation: Continuous ventilation systems typically function at a low flow rate, known as the ‘trickle rate’. This allows for a steady influx of outdoor air, which is essential for diluting indoor pollutants without creating uncomfortable drafts.
- Boost Mode: When the system detects increased humidity levels—such as from cooking, showering, or other activities—it can automatically switch to a higher extraction rate. This boost mode effectively removes excess moisture and airborne contaminants, ensuring a comfortable living environment.
- Heat Recovery: Many continuous ventilation systems, such as the FLUXO by VENTI, incorporate heat recovery technology. This feature allows the system to recover heat from the outgoing stale air and use it to warm the incoming fresh air. This not only enhances energy efficiency but also reduces heating costs during colder months.
Practical Example
In a newly built UK home, a continuous ventilation system might be installed as follows:
- Installation Location: The system is usually installed in a central location, such as a hallway or utility room, to facilitate even air distribution throughout the home.
- Operation Cycle: The unit operates on a timed cycle, typically running for 70 seconds to extract stale air and then reversing to supply fresh air for the same duration. This cycle ensures that air quality is maintained consistently.
- Humidity Control: Sensors integrated into the system monitor humidity levels. For instance, if a resident takes a hot shower, the humidity sensor detects the rise in moisture and triggers the system to switch to boost mode, increasing air extraction until humidity levels return to normal.
Continuous ventilation systems are now a standard feature in many UK homes, especially those constructed under the latest building regulations. For example:
- Regulatory Compliance: The Building Regulations – Part F 2022 stipulate the need for adequate ventilation in dwellings to prevent issues related to indoor air quality and moisture. Continuous ventilation systems help meet these requirements effectively.
- Health Benefits: By maintaining consistent indoor air quality, these systems help reduce health risks associated with poor ventilation, such as respiratory issues, allergies, and the growth of mould. Residents benefit from a healthier living environment, which is particularly important for vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.
- Energy Efficiency: Continuous ventilation systems contribute to energy savings by reducing the need for heating and cooling. By pre-conditioning incoming air through heat recovery, these systems minimize energy loss, aligning with the UK’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing energy efficiency in housing.
Continuous ventilation represents a significant advancement in building design and indoor air quality management. By providing a reliable and efficient means of ventilation, these systems not only comply with regulatory standards but also enhance the overall comfort and health of residents in UK homes. As the demand for sustainable and healthy living environments grows, continuous ventilation will likely play an increasingly vital role in the future of building practices in the UK.