Until recently, the need to create special channels was completely absent. The natural ventilation function was provided by defects in the house in the form of crevices, large gaps and cold bridges. However, with the improvement of construction technologies, walls and finishing coatings became more airtight, which necessitated the introduction of special systems for air exchange. Today, the supply air valves in the wall are the easiest means of ventilation, which is implemented artificially. The efficiency of such installations depends on many factors, including installation, climatic conditions of the terrain and the configuration of the location of the system.
Types of Supply Valves
Supply type valves are available on the market in two main versions. These are models with constant ventilation, and options with the possibility of adjustment. In the first case, the owner receives a device that provides the same parameters and volumes of air exchange. In extreme cases, permanent air inlets in the wall can be completely closed at the time of departure. Typically, this choice is made due to atmospheric conditions, when the pressure drops outside and indoors are very different. Adjustable models are more technologically advanced, more functional and more profitable in terms of ergonomics. Special management of such devices is due not only to the interests of ease of use, but also to more productive operation of the system. These are valves in which the throughput is configurable - the user can adjust the intensity of the air inflow depending on the conditions.
In which rooms to install?
The valve selection process should be guided by the needs of specific rooms. It is important to consider that the air masses from living rooms are inlet with respect to the toilet, bathroom and kitchen, as they are removed using the ventilation ducts located there . Given the capacity of the supply valves, their number and installation location are determined. There are two approaches to determining the number of valves to install in a home. According to a simplified diagram, the supply air valves in the wall should be installed in each room. A more economical configuration involves calculating the needs of a house or apartment in the fresh air - then, in accordance with these indicators, the throughput for each room is determined. The kitchen causes the greatest difficulties in the planning process, since there are certain limitations when combining valves and household appliances. For example, if there is a gas stove in the room, then you should use a model with adjustable bandwidth. If the kitchen is provided with a boiler or stove, a model with a constantly working valve is recommended in order to ensure safety.
Defining installation points
The installation of valves is preferably carried out at a level of 2 m from the floor surface. This arrangement is most rational in terms of the comfort of residents. In addition, if the room is heated, then the air at this level will be quite warm. In winter, this approach will also help get rid of drafts. The installation itself can be performed in the upper window or in doorways. However, experts recommend mounting the supply valves in the wall, since this method will ensure reliable fixation of the device and will not cause any special problems with dismantling. For comparison, if you install the valve in a door or window frame, then you will inevitably have to revise the design of the system carrier, and this will entail additional costs.
Installation technique
During installation, a special hole is made for the valve, after which free niches are sealed, and a protective visor is also introduced. Also, the installation of the supply valve in the wall can be carried out in conjunction with a special profile. In this case, the device will be integrated into the protective case, which will facilitate the fixing process. But there is a minus to such solutions - they will take up more space in the wall and require the creation of holes of a larger diameter.
In general, it is recommended to install wall valves at the construction stage, since in an finished house this event will bring much more trouble. As an alternative solution, it is possible to provide for installation through special openings, but in this case, you can lose the warranty. In addition, the installation of the supply valve in the wall can be done either in the living room or in the kitchen. Due to humidity, this installation is not allowed in the bathroom.
Valve Control Methods
It has already been noted that some types of valves allow you to adjust the parameters of their work. In particular, there are systems with automatic and manual control of the volume of air supplied, the degree of filtration and even the level of humidity. Manual tuning models are usually equipped with a special sash, in which the position changes and, accordingly, the throughput is adjusted. If you plan to install the supply ventilation valve in the wall without the possibility of user intervention in its adjustment, you should purchase automatic models. Such devices independently control the bandwidth depending on pressure, humidity, and outside temperature.
Price issue
In the simplest versions, ventilation valves are inexpensive. Just for 500-700 rubles. You can buy a good model from a well-known manufacturer. However, if several devices with long-term installation are required, it is better not to save and purchase more technologically advanced and reliable supply air valves in the wall, the price of which will be about 2-3 thousand rubles. These can be hygro-controlled devices that respond to changes in humidity indicators and independently change operating parameters. The most expensive models have a sensor made of polyamide tape, which controls the flaps, increasing or decreasing the flow of air. You should also consider the installation costs, which when installing the valve in the wall can be quite impressive. As a rule, specialists assemble devices purchased at their own companies with significant discounts, but all the same, the costs for this part can amount to 1-2 thousand rubles.
Valve Performance Reviews
Despite the simple design and wide control capabilities of such systems, they are not widely used. Nevertheless, there are many consumers who use such valves in private homes. It is they who leave positive feedback about the performance that the homeowner who installed the supply valves in the wall receives. Criticism of this approach to ventilation is based on two points. Firstly, full-fledged forced air conditioning systems also cope with this function. Secondly, interfering with the wall for such an insignificant adaptation does not justify itself - again, with similar troubles, a more functional system can be introduced.
What houses is the supply valve suitable for?
One way or another, a small valve with ventilation can be useful. It is advisable to use it in houses that are operated in conditions of sharp temperature changes, but do not require large volumes of air exchange. It is important to understand that the ventilation valve in the wall to a greater extent is a replenishing element of natural ventilation. That is, one should not expect high efficiency from it, but it is quite possible to count on adjusting the microclimate.
Conclusion
The market offers different models of supply systems, so it’s not worthwhile to judge the principle of their operation only by one design. Even within the family, there are quite different system capabilities. For example, if you integrate the supply and exhaust valve into the wall with the ability to automatically adjust operating parameters, this will ensure the maximum ventilation function without the use of overall equipment. A compact device, neatly embedded in the wall, will not spoil the building’s facade, but will provide autonomous control of the indoor air. As for the costs, they are minimal in comparison with special climatic equipment, so you can count on the economy of such ventilation.