How this blog started…
It’s already been a while since we moved in our newly built house. And, when the years pass, the house needs more maintenance. That is what you can expect. However, sometimes it takes a while to search for the right company to do the job. In this case, it took a few months to find a company to maintain the ventilation system in our home.
But why would you maintain the ventilation system? What is good ventilation in your house? And why is it important?
Let’s start with the importance of ventilation
The climate in the Netherlands is a sea climate. That also means that it rains from time to time, and it can be cold. These conditions mean that the majority of people stay inside their houses with the windows closed for much of the time.
Did you know that the air in your house is likely to be more poluted then the air outside?
That’s where ventilation comes in. Ventilation helps to replace the dirty air with fresh air from outside. That means less chance of fungi, allergies, and easier heating up the house in winter,
There are several ways of ventilating your house.
1. Natural ventilation
This is typical for houses built before 1975. The air will renew naturally and uncontrolled through cracks in the house. When extra ventilation is needed, you open a window or turn the extractor hood on. When it’s cold and windy, you may feel the wind blowing through your house.
More tips for ventilating your home? Check out this blog.
2. Mechanical ventilation in Dutch homes
After 1975, the houses became more insulated and airtight. That’s the moment when houses got a mechanical ventilation system. The air will be suck out the house, through the ventilation box, and ventilation ducts and end up in the bathroom and kitchen. Ventilation grills will help to suck in fresh air from outside. So you can regulate the airflow in the house.
3. Balanced ventilation unit
When the regulations changed for building houses around 2000, the energy efficiency of houses became even more important. That’s the time balance ventilation was introduced.
This ventilation system regulates the input and output of air in the house. Also, CO2 levels are monitored. So, it’s not necessary to open windows for fresh air. Another feature is the reuse of heat from the air indoors. That saves a lot of energy. Also, filters are applied in the system for cleaner air.
In the Netherlands, this system is also called a “warmteterugwinsysteem” or WTW-unit.
Mechanical and balance ventilation maintenance
Some tips for maintenance:
– Is the unit older than 15 years? Then replacing could help lower your energy bill.
– Cleaning ducts, grills, and the ventilation box needs to be done at least once a year. You can do it yourself.
– If you have balanced ventilation, change the filters at least every 6 months.
– It is recommended to have maintenance carried out professionally every 4–6 years. Average costs are €150-300. A professional will check the airflow and ventilation box, and clean the channels, box, and vents.
Renovating your home and changing the ventilation system
When you renovate your house, you may also think about changing the natural ventilation into a ventilation system. Especially when you buy a fixer-upper.
Changing the ventilation is a drastic measure. First, the ventilation ducts will take up a lot of space in the ceiling or walls. Also, drilling and breaking are part of the job. And it could be expensive. However, in specific situations, it will pay out.
Are you thinking about renovating your house? And, are you doubting the choices you are about to make? Just feel free to send a message by clicking here. Or, plan a 15-minute consult on Calendly.
Conclusion
Ventilating your house is better for the air quality indoors. There are several ways to do this:
Naturally: by opening windows and through cracks in the construction.
Using a mechanical ventilation system. Where the system suck out the air from bathrooms and kitchen.
Or, a balanced ventilation system. This system regulates the complete airflow and reuses the heat in the house.
Clean the ventilation system regularly to protect your health.
