ᐅ Is a Central Ventilation System Really Necessary?

Created on: 23 Mar 2014 20:38
K
Katha28
Hello,
it’s me again with a question.
We spoke with the energy consultant, and they strongly recommended installing a central ventilation system for our house (which will only be built in early spring next year) to prevent mold. Our potential architect, however, thinks that this isn’t necessarily needed, and that ventilation in the bathroom and kitchen would be enough. A central ventilation system is not only expensive but also somewhat complicated to install and difficult to clean. Over the years, it might get very dirty and start to smell. Now I’m looking for good advice—who is right? The house will have about 180 square meters (1,940 square feet) of living space, no basement, and two full floors.
Best regards,
Katha28
B
Bauexperte
24 Mar 2014 11:31
Hello,
€uro schrieb:

Proof can be just as easily provided with a decentralized solution.
It seems this is not yet widely known.
€uro schrieb:

Decentralized controlled residential ventilation can be described as "half-baked." It is often inefficient, with frequent issues related to noise levels and/or condensation. Whether you really want to have such a unit in the bedroom is something to consider.
Half-baked – was that really necessary?

Assuming a decentralized system is properly installed and not a cheap unit, a homeowner should not expect any problems. In my view, as always, it’s a matter of weighing the pros and cons of each option; the all-in-one perfect solution does not exist even in ventilation systems.

Regards, Bauexperte
Der Da24 Mar 2014 11:46
my opinion: never again without....

We were skeptical at first, but by now we are firmly convinced of its effectiveness. Sure, you can do without it, but if you want comfort, you should think it over carefully....

and the cleaning argument is pointless... Exhaust air is protected by filters, and everything from outside only comes in through the filter as well....
If you maintain your filters properly and carefully, there’s no need to worry, as long as the system was installed correctly.

If it ever needs professional cleaning, technically it’s not a problem. It costs a few euros, but then you get 10-15 years of peace of mind again.
Mycraft24 Mar 2014 11:54
Come on, building expert, let's leave it at that... I know you also really like decentralized systems, but even there, a lot can go wrong... especially the thousands of holes in the exterior walls needed for them, which become perfect thermal bridges if not executed properly... and we all know how that usually goes...

I'll just say that PU foam is the best friend of many builders...
K
Katha28
24 Mar 2014 11:55
Wow, I really touched on a sensitive topic there, but thanks for all the responses. Now we can get a better understanding.
K
klblb
24 Mar 2014 12:00
@Mycraft:
Holes in exterior walls are not necessary.

Furthermore, the argument "There’s a lot that can go wrong with that!" applies to any type of technical system and doesn't help the discussion here.

As predicted, this discussion is quickly turning into a kind of ideological dispute. Someone pass me the popcorn!!
B
Bauexperte
24 Mar 2014 12:00
Hello,
Mycraft schrieb:

Come on Bauexperte, let's drop it... I know YOU like decentralized systems, but even there you can do so much wrong... especially the thousands of holes in the exterior walls required for them, which become perfect thermal bridges if not properly installed... and we all know how that usually goes...
Whether I like something or not is completely irrelevant here. My only concern is not to demonize a system that doesn’t deserve it.

And I hope we agree on one thing: any system that is not installed properly is a mess.
Mycraft schrieb:

I’m just saying that PU foam is many craftsmen’s best friend...
And quick-setting cement for kitchen builders... this list can go on indefinitely.

Regards, Bauexperte