Solve the noise problems of kitchen ventilation grilles

Within the ventilation system of your home, the grilles play a fundamental role, as it is through them that air is supplied and extracted. In the damp areas of the house is where the most water vapor is generated in the environment. Ensuring the proper functioning of the ventilation grilles for kitchens and bathrooms is essential to guarantee the supply of clean, impurity-free outdoor air inside and the extraction of stale and contaminated air outside.

The ventilation grilles for kitchens and bathrooms and their relation to noise

According to the UNE-CEN/TR 14788:2007 IN Design and dimensioning of ventilation systems in residential buildings, ventilation systems must be projected and installed in such a way that the noise generated by the use of the system itself can be minimized, as well as any noise that can be transmitted through it. The regulations emphasize noise between dwellings (transmitted via a collective ventilation system) and between dwellings and the outdoor space.

It is about minimizing both direct noise (the one that comes from the ventilation installation itself) and indirect noise (the one that does not originate from the installation but is transmitted through it). Elements of the installation that can cause the first type of noise include, among others, fans and valves. The second type of noise finds its passage through the ventilation grilles.

To comply with the UNE, it is necessary that all elements that are part of the ventilation installation guarantee compliance with the noise protection regulations. Therefore, all distributors must inform customers and specialized technicians about the sound power of the installation, the maximum load that the anti-vibration mechanisms can support, and the soundproofing coefficient of the sound-absorbing materials. Such data will be provided based on the calculated air flow rate and the diameter of the duct network of the system.

Aspects to consider

• The impact noise, that is, noise from the vibrations of ducts caused by air flow, must be minimized.
• Aerial noise, caused by changes in flow, must be reduced to a minimum.
• Special attention should be paid to the junctions of ducts and the ventilation grilles.
• Ducts should not be fixed with rigid joints.
• Sound-absorbing material should always be used to cover the elements of the installation.
• Care should be taken not to install flow control valves immediately before the grilles, as when these are in an open position, sound power increases. If this is not possible, there are flow control valves on the market that offer adequate noise protection.
• The installation of the system should be entrusted to specialized personnel. The first requirement to avoid annoying noises from the ventilation system is to ensure adequate installation. A well-dimensioned and calculated project will prevent annoying noises, as the diameter of the ducts will depend on the intended ventilation flow.
• The installation of grilles in the corners of rooms should be avoided as much as possible.