ᐅ Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery: How to Install the Ductwork?

Hello everyone.

We have just finished the shell construction (still without the floor buildup). Somehow, our architect failed to include the pipes for the mechanical ventilation system within the concrete ceiling, as we had originally wanted.
Now, our construction company has suggested installing a suspended ceiling and running the pipes underneath it. This would also make it easier to access the pipes if one were to break. However, we are not very keen on having a suspended ceiling.
As an alternative, the ventilation pipes could be installed within the floor buildup, directly alongside the underfloor heating, but this still needs to be discussed with the heating engineer.
What do you think would be the better option? How important is it to have access to the ventilation pipes?

Thanks in advance

How much floor construction height do you have? Will the ducts or flat channels for the mechanical ventilation system still fit in there?
I would probably also lower the ceiling, but try to keep it minimal if possible. Maybe it’s feasible to arrange the air distribution with wall vents along the hallway.

The plan was for 15cm (6 inches); if that doesn’t work, we can go up to 20cm (8 inches). We only have a traditional hallway on the attic floor (1.5-story building); on the ground floor, there is just an entrance hall. But how should the middle of the living area be reached from the hall, for example? It still has to be done either from the floor or from the ceiling.

Another question: Is it better for the air to enter the living space from above or from below?

First, be grateful to the architect for having "messed it up."
This should never be cast in place. Actually, it shouldn't be part of the floor build-up either, but that might be the easiest way to include it now without major extra costs.
Who else will cover the costs for the suspended ceiling and the potentially reduced room height caused by the ceiling construction… with everything involved?
Plan flat ducts carefully, especially the crossing points. Consider all trades that will work around there...
So get the electrician, plumber, and ventilation installer together at one table. And familiarize yourself with the screed regulations beforehand, so you can immediately stop them from inadequately covering the crossing points with impact sound insulation locally…

Unfortunately, due to various circumstances, I have to cover all additional costs myself. Therefore, it is important to keep the installation affordable.

However, my primary concern is "practicality." How are ventilation ducts and outlets usually installed? In the ceiling or the floor?

Hello!

In our house, the supply air ducts are installed in the floor. The system is called "proKlima," and the supply air partially flows around the underfloor heating. This means the air is preheated before it enters the room near the windows.
The exhaust air is extracted conventionally from the ceiling.

I have seen a similar system at our neighbor’s place, where the supply air also comes from the floor.

Is this system effective?
Please ask me again in spring 2014—I will then be able to give you an initial assessment.

Best regards,
Micha