Bespoke ventilation solutions offer real benefits, says Steve Mongan.
If targets set out by the Government to reduce carbon emissions and improve the efficiency of the UK's building stock are to be met, the whole design of a building has to be challenged.
From a ventilation point of view, the good news for our industry is that the impact of these legislative changes has pushed the importance of ventilation up the agenda. The fact that buildings are becoming more airtight means providing sufficient ventilation is essential.
Poor ventilation is a serious issue. Excessive condensation can cause mould growth, leading to cosmetic and structural damage to the fabric of a building and can create extremely poor indoor air quality, which can lead to potential health issues for the building's occupants.
A common myth among many specifiers and contractors is that central plant and heat recovery units are the best systems. However, every new or refurbishment project is different so it is essential that, as an industry, we do not get into a 'one solution fits all' scenerio.
A new commercial premises like an open plan office development will have different demands from a school or a hospital. In each of these commercial buildings, providing a sufficient quality of fresh air to ensure the efficiency of a workforce, class or patient comfort is vital. On the industrial side, a ventilation system may also need to control exposure to substances to prevent ill health, including adhesives, cleaning agents and fumes from soldering and welding. In all buildings, naturally occurring substances such as dust and biological agents like bacteria and other micro-organisms also need to be considered.
Whatever the application, the ventilation system has to fit the design and orientation of a building, the changing temperature throughout the day and night, and the regional seasonal profiles to optimise comfort while also minimising energy loss. The system design should have the ability to be stand-alone or integrated with renewable heat pump heating and cooling, solar thermal panels and wind energy systems to suit the application.
In order to do this, it is vital that we, as an industry, adopt a partnership approach to working. Doing this will enable us to share technical expertise and achieve best practice. It is no longer just about product, it is about providing a solution and value added services.