Installation and placement of fresh air valves
On this page, we explain how many fresh air valves are needed to create an effective ventilation system and provide guidance on the best locations for installing them in a room.
Where should a fresh air valve be installed?
For ventilation to function properly, living spaces such as bedrooms and living rooms should have fresh air valves that supply fresh outdoor air indoors. The air entering through the fresh air valves circulates through the living spaces and flows towards the exhaust vents located in kitchens, toilets, bathrooms, and walk-in closets.
A sufficient number of fresh air valves can be estimated based on the floor area of the dwelling, with approximately one valve required for every 20 m². It is important to have enough fresh air valves in relation to the size of the dwelling, as too few valves can cause draughts and reduce ventilation efficiency.
If the dwelling has wooden ventilation hatches, ventilation can be easily improved by installing Velco VTR-100 fresh air valves into the window ventilation hatches. For installation, 105 mm holes are drilled into the ventilation hatches using a hole saw.
If wooden ventilation hatches are not available, ventilation can be improved by installing fresh air valves through new wall penetrations.
Position fresh air valves:
- Install fresh air valves in the living room based on the floor area, with approximately one valve for every 20 m².
- Install one fresh air valve in each bedroom.
- Position fresh air valves as high as possible in the room to allow the incoming air to warm up before it reaches the occupied zone.
- The ideal location for a fresh air valve is above or close to a window or radiator. Install the valve in the far corner of the room, as far as possible from the exhaust vent or exhaust flue.
- Avoid installing a fresh air valve directly above a sofa, bed, or other frequently occupied areas.
