How to reduce thermal losses and condensation in ventilation ducts?

Both thermal losses and condensation are two real problems in ventilation ducts. The reason? They can lead to a decrease in system efficiency and, with it, higher energy costs and less comfort. Fortunately, there are several systems through which it is possible to minimize their effects.

How to reduce thermal losses and condensation

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

Sealed ventilation network

Sealed ventilation networks guarantee the maximum 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 think that, in terms of aerothermal, 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, the use of a completely sealed ventilation duct network is a priority. Not doing so implies higher energy costs for the user and less comfort perception. Both thermally and acoustically.

Insulated ducts Siber Air Insulator

In order to maximize respect for the environment 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 made specifically from organic polyurethane foam (EPE). The aim is to reduce carbon dioxide emissions to zero during the manufacturing process.

Siber Air Insulator guarantees that, when blowing air into the system at a lower temperature than that outside, there will be no condensation. But, in addition, it provides all these additional advantages:

• High level of noise absorption from the operation of the ventilation system, so that 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.
• Neither mounting nor dismounting requires the use of any tools.
• It is very easy to clean.
• It can be installed both indoors and outdoors thanks to the thermoplastic insulated ceiling terminals.

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

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