5 Challenges of Ventilating Multi-Family Buildings

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Safety

January 15, 2022

Today, design engineers for new multi-family residential construction face obstacles that are different to applications where ventilation is retrofitted into an older building, but both have their challenges. Here are 5 ventilation challenges engineers commonly face when designing multi-family residential projects, new and old:

1: Design Challenges and Limited Options

The design of the ventilation system must take into account factors such as the building's layout, the number of units, the size and location of windows, and the need for ventilation in shared spaces such as hallways and stairwells.

Older, multi-family apartment buildings may not have ventilation systems that meet current ventilation standards and may require extensive retrofitting to accommodate an HVAC system. This could have significant cost implications and design challenges. Energy loss in these older buildings is also a concern.

2: Limited Space

In multi-family living, there are often more occupants per square foot compared to single-family homes. This results in a higher concentration of pollutants and moisture being generated within shared spaces.

Coupled with inadequate ventilation, a buildup of carbon dioxide and other harmful gases, as well as increased humidity levels can result in unpleasant odors, allergic reactions, and respiratory problems.

In multi-family homes, there is often limited space available for ventilation systems, such as ductwork, makeup air, and exhaust fans, all which are necessary to ensure proper air circulation and exchange.

The design of the building and the available infrastructure may also limit the options for installing ventilation systems.

3: Noise

Ventilation systems that are too loud can interfere with daily activities, disrupt sleep, and decrease the overall quality of life for residents.

To mitigate noise issues, designers of ventilation systems for multi-family homes should consider the following:

Choose high-quality, low-noise, and low-vibration ventilation equipment.

Consider the size, shape, and material of ductwork, as well as minimizing the number of bends, as this can have a significant impact on the noise level of the system.

Insulation, alongside other noise-reducing measures, can help dampen noise and reduce the overall sound level of the ventilation system.

Locate ventilation system components away from living spaces to reduce the impact of noise.

4: Climate and Weather Conditions

Climate and weather conditions affect the amount of air exchanged and the efficiency of the ventilation system. Here are some examples:

In warmer climates, ventilation is essential for removing excess heat and moisture from the indoor environment. Ventilation also helps improve indoor air quality by removing pollutants and bringing in fresh air. In colder climates, ventilation is important for preventing moisture buildup and reducing the risk of mold growth. However, in extremely cold temperatures, ventilation can be a challenge as it can lead to drafts and energy losses.

In areas with high levels of outdoor pollution, such as near busy highways or industrial areas, ventilation helps improve indoor air quality by filtering out pollutants and bringing in fresh air. However, in areas with extreme levels of pollution, it may be necessary to employ proper air filtration to further reduce the level of pollutants from the intake air.

High humidity levels can lead to condensation on windows and walls, which can promote the growth of mold and mildew. Ventilation helps reduce humidity levels by removing excess moisture from the air. In dry climates, ventilation may not be as critical for humidity control, but it can still be important for improving indoor air quality.

Wind can have a significant impact on ventilation in multi-family homes, especially in high-rise buildings. Strong winds can cause negative pressure inside the building, which can lead to drafts and air leaks. Properly designed ventilation systems helps mitigate the impact of wind on indoor air quality and comfort.

5: Air Quality

Multi-family homes present unique air quality challenges due to their density, shared spaces, and the varied lifestyles of residents. Here are some common air quality challenges in multi-family homes:

Indoor air pollutants such as cleaning products, cooking, smoking, and building materials can have adverse effects on health, especially for vulnerable populations such as children, elderly individuals, and people with respiratory conditions.

Moisture can build up in multi-family homes due to activities such as cooking, showering, and laundry. If not properly ventilated, this moisture can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can cause respiratory problems and other health issues.

Secondhand smoke from neighboring units or common areas can infiltrate multi-family homes and have negative health effects on occupants.

Shared spaces in multi-family homes such as hallways, elevators, and lobbies can become sources of indoor air pollutants if not properly ventilated.

Breathe Easy

To address these air quality challenges, it is important to prioritize proper ventilation and filtration in multi-family homes. This can include installing ventilation systems that meet the unique needs of the building and its occupants, using air filters that capture indoor air pollutants, and maintain proper humidity levels.

Giving careful consideration to ventilation needs during the design and construction phase will help prioritize an effective ventilation system that will meet the needs of the occupants within the constraints of the limited space. Properly designed and installed ventilation systems that take into account the local climate and weather conditions helps ensure a healthy and comfortable indoor environment for occupants.

Whether it's new construction or retrofitting an older building, Fantech has the products and expertise to guide you through whatever ventilation challenges your application requires.

Learn more about fresh air appliances for multi-family residential projects