Decentralized ventilation system - features, functions and financing

Decentralized ventilation systems with continuous operation are also called continuous-flow fans. They are a complete ventilation unit with a built-in cross-flow heat exchanger. The units have two fans that simultaneously supply air, creating two air flows. The outdoor and supply air flow brings fresh air into the room, while the exhaust and stale air flow removes stale air from the room. A cross-flow counter-flow heat exchanger is located between the two air flows. It recovers heat from the indoor air and transfers it to the supply air. This means that a significant portion of the heat remains in the room despite continuous ventilation.

Thanks to built-in filters and the unit’s appropriate design, neither dirt particles nor outside noise penetrate into the rooms. Continuous fans can supply air to and ventilate individual rooms; they can be installed in external walls in both supply air zones (living rooms, bedrooms, or children’s rooms) and exhaust air zones (kitchen, bathroom, or toilet). One device that utilizes this operating mode is the Vitovent 200-D decentralized ventilation system.

When searching for a suitable ventilation system, the scale of the upgrade is an important factor. A major upgrade can achieve significantly different results than a partial upgrade. Depending on the building’s characteristics, a central ventilation system can be used for a major upgrade. A decentralized ventilation system can also be used in a new building. The ventilation system that is ultimately suitable for a given building depends on many factors. Among other things, it’s important to consider the characteristics of the living space, the type of use, and the number of occupants.

As mentioned, decentralized mechanical ventilation is primarily characterized by its room-specific use. Each individual ventilation unit requires its own electrical connection. Depending on the ventilation unit, this may be a 230-volt power supply, as with the Vitovent 200-D, or a data cable, as with the Vitovent 100-D. Since the units are installed in an external wall, homeowners must consider the building type when purchasing a decentralized mechanical ventilation unit. Finally, for use in new buildings, there are special wall units into which ventilation units can be inserted. Retrofitting units, on the other hand, is accomplished by drilling a hole.

Since stale air accumulates at the top of a room, ventilation units should be placed there whenever possible. Although these units operate quietly, highly sensitive individuals may be bothered by the airflow noise, especially in sleeping areas. To avoid this, consider the placement and design of ventilation units in advance.

Compared to central mechanical ventilation, the design costs of a decentralized ventilation system are lower. However, efficient and quiet operation require the contractor’s experience. An experienced installer will quickly determine the ventilation system’s dimensions and the optimal placement of air diffusers. They will also help you select the appropriate type of unit. Depending on the available space, consider a ventilation unit with an integrated cross-flow heat exchanger or a single fan and ceramic heat accumulator.