The Different Types of Ventilation Systems

A vent is an opening that enables air, gas or liquid to pass through and there are many different types of vents. A ventilation system will allow outdoor air to enter an indoor space and is important since it improves the quality of air within your home. Without ventilation, your home will become stale and damp, which can enable mould to grow. Our article on How to Get Rid of Mould is useful if you have a mould infestation in your home.

If you’re thinking of installing a ventilation system for your home, here are the different types of ventilation systems you can choose from.

Exhaust ventilation systems 

This system typically consists of a single fan connected to a single exhaust point in your home. It works by depressurising your home and reducing the air pressure. This type of system also extracts indoor air while make-up air flows through leaks in the building shell and passive vents. Exhaust ventilation systems are better for cold climates since depressurisation in warmer climates can attract moist air, which can cause moisture damage.

When installing an exhaust ventilation system, it is recommended that you connect the single fan to ducts from several rooms. To allow fresh air to enter, passive and adjustable vents can be installed through windows or walls rather than relying on leaks in the building shell.

Supply ventilation systems 

This system consists of a fan and a duct that enables fresh air to enter into one room. It works by pressurising your home and forces outside air to enter by using the fan. When compared to an exhaust ventilation system, supply ventilation systems will allow you to better control the air that enters your home. The process of pressurisation will also ensure that pollutants are unable to enter. Unlike exhaust ventilation systems, supply vents work best in warm climates. If they are installed in colder climates, they can cause moisture problems.

Balanced ventilation systems

This system consists of two fans and two ducts. It neither pressurises nor depressurises your home, but instead allows and exhausts an equal amount of outside air and indoor air. This system will also enable fresh air to enter rooms where people spend the most time in, and will exhaust air from rooms that contain a lot of moisture and pollutants, such as the kitchen and the bathroom. Unlike the previous ventilation systems, balanced ventilation systems are appropriate for all climates. However, they are usually more expensive to install.

These are the different types of ventilation systems you can consider for your home. For more information about ventilation systems or for any enquiries, get in touch with our experts from our list here.