How to reduce thermal losses and condensation in ventilation ducts?

Both thermal losses and condensation are two real problems in ventilation ducts. What’s the reason? They can lead to a decrease in system efficiency and, consequently, higher energy consumption and lower comfort. Fortunately, there are several systems that can help minimize their effects.

How to reduce thermal losses and condensation

As we said, reducing the amount of condensation and thermal losses in ventilation systems is a real priority for us. To achieve this, we have two fundamental systems.

Sealed ventilation network

Sealed ventilation networks guarantee the highest level of system efficiency. How? By preventing air losses. It is common to use semi-rigid models, especially in individual installations, although we adapt to the needs of each project.

Specifically, sealed ventilation networks offer a fundamental benefit. We refer, of course, to efficiency. Let’s consider that, in the aerothermal realm, thermal losses and condensation produce the following effects:

• Oversizing of air extraction to compensate for losses.
• Larger monitoring system.
• Increased noise generation from the installation.
• Higher energy consumption.

Therefore, using a completely sealed ventilation duct network is a priority. Failing to do so results in higher energy expenses for the user and a lower feeling of comfort. Both thermally and acoustically.

Siber Air Insulator ducts

In order to respect the environment as much as possible while addressing condensation and thermal losses, we at Siber have developed the Siber Air Insulator range. In this case, we have replaced fossil fuel-derived materials with organic matter.

The elements that make up this range have been specifically made with organic polyurethane foam (EPE). The goal is to reduce carbon dioxide emissions during the manufacturing process to zero.

Siber Air Insulator ensures that when air is blown into the system at a lower temperature than the outside air, condensation will not occur. But additionally, it provides all these added benefits:

• High level of noise absorption produced by the operation of the ventilation system, so the user hardly hears anything.
• The organic EPE is immune to corrosion and is lightweight, impact-resistant, and very easy to handle.
• The smooth interior surface of these pieces ensures minimal thermal load loss.
• The connections between these pieces are made mechanically, thus eliminating the need for adhesives.
• No tools of any kind are needed for either assembly or disassembly.
• It is very easy to clean.
• Can be installed both indoors and outdoors thanks to the insulated plastic ceiling terminals.

All these benefits are possible due to the intrinsic characteristics of organic EPE. We are talking, for example, about its density, which reaches 30 kg/m³. But also of its thickness, which reaches 16 mm. Furthermore, it can operate effectively in a temperature range of -30 °C to 60 °C and offers an exceptional level of thermal resistance.

In summary, thermal losses and condensation are two very important problems. Fortunately, at Siber we utilize sealed networks and have developed the Siber Air Insulator system to minimize their impact. All of this, combined with our single-family mechanical ventilation accessories, enhances the energy efficiency of the system and guarantees the highest standards of comfort and air quality.