Regulations
How does Demand-Controlled Ventilation work?
A demand-controlled ventilation system uses sensors to measure parameters such as carbon dioxide (CO₂), relative humidity and, in some applications, volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The ventilation unit automatically increases or decreases the airflow based on these measurements.
When occupancy is low or indoor air quality is already good, the system reduces ventilation to minimise energy use. As CO₂ concentrations or humidity levels rise, the airflow is automatically increased to maintain a comfortable and healthy indoor environment.
Compatible with MEV and MVHR systems
Demand-Controlled Ventilation can be integrated with both Mechanical Extract Ventilation (MEV) and Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems.
When combined with an MEV system, DCV automatically adjusts the extract airflow in response to indoor conditions. When used with an MVHR system, both the supply and extract airflows are optimised, while the heat recovery unit continues to recover valuable thermal energy from the exhaust air.
Which sensors does Ubbink offer?
Ubbink offers sensors that enable demand-controlled ventilation. By monitoring indoor air conditions, the ventilation system automatically adjusts its performance to maintain a healthy indoor environment while helping to improve energy efficiency.
- CO₂ sensor – Measures the level of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the indoor air. When CO₂ levels increase, the ventilation rate is automatically adjusted to improve indoor air quality.
- RH sensor (Relative Humidity sensor) – Measures the relative humidity in the air. When humidity levels rise, for example during showering or cooking, the ventilation system automatically increases its airflow to remove excess moisture.
Benefits of Demand-Controlled Ventilation
Demand-controlled ventilation offers a wide range of advantages for both residential and commercial buildings:
- Improved indoor air quality through continuous monitoring.
- Reduced energy consumption by ventilating only whenrequired.
- Lower heating and cooling costs.
- Increasedoccupantcomfort.
- Reducedcarbonemissions.
- Compliance with modern building and energy efficiency standards.
Ventilation with and without Demand-Controlled Ventilation
| Without DCV | With DCV |
|---|---|
Fixed ventilation rate. | Ventilation rate automatically adjusts to demand. |
No automatic control based on indoor air conditions. | Automatic control using CO₂ and/or RH sensors. |
Continuous ventilation regardless of demand. | Ventilates only when required. |
Higher energy consumption. | Reduced energy consumption. |
Higher heating and cooling costs. | Lower heating and cooling costs. |
Indoor air quality is not continuously monitored. | Continuous monitoring helps improve indoor air quality. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is demand controlled ventilation?
Demand controlled ventilation is a smart mechanical ventilation system that automatically adjusts the airflow based on the actual ventilation needs in a home. Sensors measure factors such as humidity, CO₂ levels or occupancy, ensuring that fresh air is supplied only where and when it is needed. This improves indoor air quality, reduces energy consumption and creates a healthier indoor environment.
How does demand controlled ventilation work?
A demand controlled ventilation system continuously monitors indoor conditions. When humidity or CO₂ levels increase, the system automatically increases the ventilation rate. Once the air quality improves, airflow is reduced again. By ventilating according to demand, the system maintains excellent indoor air quality while supporting energy efficient ventilation.
When should demand controlled ventilation be used?
Demand controlled ventilation is ideal for modern airtight homes, apartments and residential buildings where ventilation requirements vary throughout the day. It is especially beneficial in low-energy buildings because it reduces unnecessary ventilation while maintaining a healthy indoor environment.
Does demand controlled ventilation reduce humidity?
Yes. Humidity sensors detect rising moisture levels, for example after showering or cooking. The ventilation system automatically increases airflow to remove excess moisture, helping to reduce condensation and mould growth.
Why choose Ubbink for demand controlled ventilation?
Ubbink provides more than individual ventilation products. Our complete ventilation ecosystem combines compatible components, Aerflux design support and solutions designed to work together. This helps simplify specification, supports fast installation and gives installers and specifiers one supplier for the complete ventilation system.