News

Dwell-Vent's innovative technology provides low cost improvement in air quality (21/11/2005)

Fresh air without the draughts is being offered by Dwell-Vent. This new type of air conditioning uses heat exchange to warm incoming fresh air while removing the stale air drawn from the kitchen and bathroom. The result is healthy ventilation without the need to open a window in wintertime.

Dwell-Vent is the brainchild of Dr Mike McEvoy and Dr Ryan Southall of the Martin Centre for Architectural and Urban Studies, University of Cambridge. Dr McEvoy comments that for the first time it is possible to meet the needs of both health and the energy efficiency agendas.

"Indoor air quality is a top 5 priority for the US health authorities. Tight sealed environments may retain the heat and lower energy consumption but they also cause condensation. The result is mould growth, creating a breeding ground for dust mites and an increasing incidence of asthma. We saw a need to improve air flow through the house without losing too much of the warmth."

The Dwell-Vent system improves the air quality inside the home by replacing stale air with fresh air drawn in through low-level vents between the panes of glass within 'supply air' windows. The old air is removed through ducts/passive stack vents in the roof. Even during the winter, incoming air is pre-warmed by the heat on the window, reducing space-heating costs by 15- 20 percent in a domestic house.

The system may also bring relief to hay fever sufferers, as the incoming air is partially filtered within the window before entering the room.

Dr McEvoy comments that although they may need cleaning slightly more often than standard windows the units are designed to be easy to access and don't have the long-term condensation problems of normal double glazing units.

"Unlike normal windows which let dust, pollen and air pollution into the room, this system filters some of these elements out of the air, creating a cleaner environment. Additionally it helps prevent the build-up of low level toxins released into the home by carpets and building materials."

This innovative low-energy, whole-house ventilation system has been tested in Denmark, Ireland and Poland as well as in two houses in Norwich, England. A further 20 unit project is underway with funding from the Carbon Trust. Residents have reported a favourable reaction to the system, as it has demonstrated good energy efficiency and improved air quality without the maintenance and operational problems associated with mechanical systems.

Although it works best when fitted in a new home, it is possible that components may be retrofitted in older properties. One such trial is currently underway with a London Borough Council. Council houses in a conservation area are having their sash windows double-glazed with a Dwell-Vent 'supply air' window.

www.dwell-vent.com