How to properly ventilate a house and apartment: tips

Properly arranged ventilation is the key to a healthy microclimate, the absence of mold and excess moisture, as well as savings on heating. Many people wonder how to properly ventilate a house or apartment with their own hands and with minimal costs. In this article, we will consider the key principles of creating a ventilation system, the difference between natural and mechanical ventilation, tips for choosing equipment, and installation features.

Useful videos on the topic that I recommend watching

1. Why is ventilation so important?

1. Health and comfort. Quality air exchange ensures the inflow of fresh air and the removal of carbon dioxide, odors, moisture, and harmful substances that are generated during cooking, bathing, washing, etc.
2. Prevention of mold and dampness. The absence of proper ventilation leads to increased humidity. This creates favorable conditions for the development of fungi and mold.
3. Preservation of the building. Excess moisture can destroy the structures of a house or apartment, so proper ventilation protects your home in the long term.
4. Energy efficiency. Modern systems with heat recovery help retain heat in the home without incurring additional heating costs.

2. Natural and mechanical ventilation: advantages and disadvantages

Natural ventilation

• Essence of the method. It is provided through open windows and doors, as well as special vents or valves in the walls. Air moves due to the difference in temperature and pressure inside and outside the house.
• Advantages:
  • Simplicity of installation and maintenance.
  • No additional electricity consumption.
  • Low cost (no expensive devices).
• Disadvantages:
  • Dependence on weather conditions (the strength and direction of air movement are difficult to control).
  • Possible heat loss in cold weather.
  • Not always sufficient efficiency in large or airtight buildings.

Mechanical ventilation

• Essence of the method. Special equipment (fans, exhaust systems, recuperators, etc.) is used for organized inflow of fresh air and removal of exhaust air.
• Advantages:
  • Ability to control air exchange (regulating the intensity of ventilation).
  • High efficiency in any season and independence from weather conditions.
  • Built-in filters clean the air of dust and allergens.
  • Ability to reduce heat loss (through the use of recuperators).
• Disadvantages:
  • Higher cost of equipment and installation.
  • Need for electricity and periodic maintenance (cleaning filters, inspecting devices).

3. How to calculate the need for ventilation?

Before making ventilation in a house or apartment, it is worth understanding how much air is needed for comfortable living. The main factors affecting the calculation are:

1. Area of the house or apartment (m²).
2. Ceiling height (m).
3. Number of residents.
4. Purpose of the rooms (bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, etc.).

An approximate formula for calculating the performance (flow rate) of the ventilation system may look like this:

• Ventilation coefficient depends on the type of room and usually varies within 0.3 – 1.0.
  • For example, for a living room/bedroom – 0.3–0.5,
  • For a kitchen or bathroom, where the level of humidity and pollutants is higher – 0.7–1.0.

This formula gives a rough idea of the required performance of the system. If a detailed project is needed, it is recommended to consult ventilation specialists.

4. Ventilation in the house: installation features and tips

If you have decided to make ventilation in a private house with your own hands, you should follow this general scheme:

1. Design and selection of the system:

   • Determine whether you will rely on natural ventilation or if mechanical devices (exhausts, supply and exhaust systems, recuperators) are needed.
   • Consider climatic conditions, building features (wall material, window tightness), budget, and comfort requirements.

2. Installation of ducts and ventilation channels:

   • Exhaust channels with ventilation grilles are installed to remove exhaust (moist and polluted) air.
   • Special valves can be used for the inflow of fresh air, built into the wall or window.
   • Pay attention to the tightness of all connections and insulation of the ducts (especially if they pass through a cold attic or walls).

3. Installation of equipment:

   • Fans, exhausts, recuperators: depending on your needs and budget.
   • Filters: provide cleaning from dust, insects, allergens. They should be placed in easily accessible locations for simple replacement and cleaning.
   • Humidity and CO₂ sensors (if needed): allow for automatic adjustment of the system’s operating speed.

4. Connection to the power grid and automation settings:

   • Connect fans, control units, humidity or CO₂ sensors.
   • Check if the electrical network in the house meets the voltage and power requirements.

5. Testing and debugging:

   • Ensure the proper operation of exhaust and supply devices (is the airflow felt?).
   • Check the tightness of the system, the absence of drafts in inappropriate places.

5. Ventilation in the apartment: what to pay attention to?

Some apartments (especially in new buildings) have airtight windows and walls, which complicates natural air circulation. Here are some tips on how to properly ventilate an apartment:

1. Check the condition of existing ventilation channels. In apartment buildings, there are usually shafts for exhaust from the kitchen and bathroom. Make sure the channels are clean and not clogged.
2. Install an exhaust fan in the bathroom or toilet. This is the simplest way to address excessive humidity.
3. Air supply valves. Special supply valves can be installed in the wall or window frame. They will provide a stable inflow of fresh air without the need to constantly open windows.
4. Kitchen exhaust. To effectively remove odors and steam during cooking, choose a powerful exhaust with an outlet to the ventilation channel or with carbon filters (if there is no possibility to vent air outside).
5. Regular airing. If there is no mechanical ventilation, be sure to air the rooms several times a day, especially in the morning and before bed.

6. Ventilation in the bedroom: why is it important and how to arrange it?

The bedroom is the room where a person spends the most time while sleeping. Quality ventilation helps to fall asleep faster and rest better. Main tips:

1. Always ventilate the bedroom before sleep (5–15 minutes) to reduce CO₂ levels.
2. If a recuperator or supply and exhaust system is installed, set the night mode (reduced noise, optimal air exchange).
3. Avoid drafts. Position the supply valves and exhaust grilles so that the direct flow of cold air is not directed at the bed.
4. Monitor humidity. If the air is too dry during the heating season, it is worth using a humidifier, and if it is too humid – turn on ventilation more often or use a dehumidifier.

7. Natural ventilation of the house: is it enough?

Many are interested in whether it is possible to rely solely on natural ventilation. The answer depends on several factors:

• Region of residence. In areas with frequent strong winds or large temperature fluctuations, natural exhaust may work more effectively.
• Type of house and windows. Modern double-glazed windows and insulation materials make the house very airtight, so without mechanical reinforcement, natural ventilation is often insufficient.
• Planning and number of residents. The more people and closed rooms there are, the harder it is to ensure quality ventilation solely through open windows and doors.

In some cases, a combined option – natural inflow (through valves) and mechanical exhaust (fans in the bathroom or kitchen) – becomes the optimal solution.

8. Practical tips and recommendations

1. Choose quality equipment from trusted manufacturers, as the reliability of fans, recuperators, and filters affects the convenience of their operation and long-term efficiency.
2. Consider the placement of furniture when planning ventilation ducts: furniture should not obstruct air flows.
3. Ensure the tightness of all connections of ventilation ducts, especially if they pass through uninhabited areas (attics, basements).
4. Regularly clean and maintain the ventilation system. Clogged filters or ducts reduce efficiency, which can lead to increased humidity and the appearance of mold.
5. Follow building codes. If it concerns an apartment building, remember the legislative restrictions on interfering with the common ventilation shaft.

9. Conclusion

The answer to the question “how to properly ventilate a house, apartment, or bedroom” comes down to three key components:

1. Properly choose a system (natural or mechanical).
2. Correctly design the layout of ducts and equipment.
3. Regularly maintain and update the system.

Quality ventilation will ensure a comfortable microclimate and maintain the health of all residents. Do not ignore the importance of ventilation when designing or renovating a house or apartment – investments in fresh and clean air will certainly return in the form of better well-being and the longevity of your home.

I hope this information helps you make the right decision and create effective ventilation in your house, apartment, or bedroom. If you have doubts about choosing equipment or installation nuances – consult specialists, as proper ventilation affects the comfort and health of the entire family.