Good ventilation in a building is required to provide a supply of fresh air, remove odours and control the build up of water vapor. Buildings rely on constant air circulation. Poor ventilation can lead to problems with condensation or dampness. A build up of water vapor in the air is usually associated with cooking, bathrooms and the even the people who occupy the building. Inappropriate moisture levels in buildings are considered to be a significant cause of building failures, including building related occupant health problems. Evidence from research seems to indicate that such failures and problems may be increasing in some areas due to factors such as increased air tightness and insulation.
There are a number of options available when choosing a ventilation system for your project ranging from simple background ventilation to extract ventilation or more complex heat recovery systems. The system should be designed so that it provides a whole house solution and is responsive to the demand for fresh air.
Homeowners guide
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) provide a Homeowners Guide to Ventilation