Cleaning the ventilation system - this is what you need to pay attention to

A good ventilation system is crucial for a healthy indoor climate in buildings. Not only does it provide fresh air, but it can also reduce heating costs by effectively recovering heat.

Even the best ventilation system can become dirty over time, which can affect its performance.

For this reason, regular maintenance is essential to ensure that the air we breathe is good.

Contamination can occur in the ventilation system

It is often assumed that ventilation systems are self-cleaning during continuous operation. In fact, dust, dirt, pollen, and other particles can build up in the air filters and ducts over time.

These deposits can affect the performance of your ventilation system and worsen air quality, even if it is running continuously.

Maintenance includes cleaning and replacing filters as well as cleaning the ventilation ducts

Two main components of regular maintenance for your ventilation system are replacing filters and cleaning the ventilation ducts.

The use of filters is crucial to rid the air of pollutants and ensure that only clean air enters your living room or study.

To ensure that air can flow freely through the system, it is important to clean the ducts.

Dirty filters make it difficult for air to flow and increase energy consumption

Fans have to work harder to move air through the system when the ventilation system filters are dirty.

This leads to more energy consumption and inefficient performance. Even a clogged air filter can cause the ventilation system to fail and require expensive repairs.

What speaks for regular cleaning of the ventilation system?

Reasons for cleaning the ventilation system	Importance (1-5)
Ensuring air quality	5
Improving energy efficiency	4
Avoiding health problems	5
Extension of the lifespan of the system	3
Minimizing energy consumption	3
Reducing noise and inconvenience	3
Protection against mold formation	4
Compliance with regulations and standards	4
Avoiding expensive repairs	4
Ensuring a continuous supply of fresh air	5
Reduction of allergens and pollutants	5
Maintaining a healthy indoor climate	5
Avoiding CO2 accumulation	3

The score in the table represents the subjective importance or priority assigned to each reason for regular cleaning of the ventilation system. It ranges from 1 to 5, with 1 being the least important and 5 being the most important.

Health problems caused by heavy contamination

In addition to financial consequences, neglected maintenance can also have health consequences.

Dirty filters in a ventilation system can release pollutants and allergens into the air, which can lead to breathing problems, allergies and headaches.

In addition, increased load on fans due to dirty filters can lead to loud noises that affect the comfort in your room.

Neglected cleaning leads to problems

Inadequate cleaning of the ventilation system can lead to even more serious problems. Carbon dioxide and pollutants can build up while oxygen levels in rooms decrease.

This can lead to difficulty breathing, illness and even health problems. In addition, inadequate air circulation through clogged ducts can result in the moisture in the rooms not being adequately removed, leading to mold growth.

Filters in the ventilation system must be changed regularly

The first line of defense against dirt and pollutants are the filters in your ventilation system. They need to be changed regularly to ensure they work effectively.

The frequency of the change depends on several factors, including manufacturer recommendations and the air quality in your area. A well-maintained filter not only improves air quality, but also the overall efficiency of your ventilation system.

The ventilation filters play an important role in cleaning the incoming air. The air quality in your area has a significant impact on your condition.

Filters should be replaced at least once a year, but more frequent changes may be required in areas with high levels of air pollution or allergies.

Changing the filter correctly ensures that your ventilation system works well and delivers clean air.

The condition of the filters should be checked regularly

It is also advisable to regularly check the condition of your filters between scheduled changes.

A visual inspection will help you determine whether the filters are dirty and need to be replaced. To ensure that your ventilation system always remains in top condition, you should also pay attention to the manufacturer's recommendations.

Professional cleaning is recommended every few years

Although changing filters regularly is a crucial step, you should consider having your ventilation system professionally cleaned every few years. It is particularly recommended to do this for centralized systems.

The time intervals for this professional cleaning vary depending on the system. Experts recommend carrying out such cleaning every five years. This measure not only improves air quality, but also improves the performance of your system.

Continuous and healthy fresh air supply

A well-maintained ventilation system ensures a constant supply of air. This is important to ensure that your rooms are always filled with healthy and clean air.

A reliable ventilation system is particularly important in rooms with many people or when the windows are closed.

Reliable removal of moisture, pollutants and CO2

Ventilation systems are not only responsible for supplying air, but also for removing moisture, pollutants and carbon dioxide (CO2).

A properly maintained system ensures that these harmful substances are efficiently removed from your rooms, resulting in a healthy and comfortable indoor environment.

You can significantly extend the life of your ventilation system by maintaining and cleaning it regularly. This improves the return on your investment and prevents expensive repairs or complete replacement of the system.

Minimizing the energy consumption of the system

A ventilation system that is clean and well maintained is also more energy efficient. Dirty filters and clogged ducts require the system to work harder, resulting in higher energy consumption.

Maintenance and cleaning are more energy efficient and environmentally friendly.

Costs depend on accessibility, distribution system and pipe length.

The cost of maintaining and cleaning your ventilation system can change based on a variety of factors. This includes the accessibility of the system, the distribution system and the pipe length.

In order to determine the exact costs for your specific system, it is advisable to obtain quotes from experts.

As a rule, the ventilation system is cleaned by professionals using special tools such as compressed air nozzles or rotating brushes. These techniques effectively remove deposits and dirt and thoroughly clean your system.

Review and adjust settings for optimal performance

In addition to regular maintenance and cleaning, you should also monitor the settings of your ventilation system. Depending on the season and individual requirements, the ideal settings may vary.

Make sure the system setup allows for effective air circulation and energy saving. This can significantly improve your space while reducing operating costs.

Central systems require little maintenance

If you have a centralized ventilation system, you will know that they typically require less maintenance than decentralized systems.

Central systems often have larger filters that need to be replaced less often. However, to ensure long-term performance, do not neglect regular cleaning and inspection.

Specialist staff can take over the cleaning every two years

Experts recommend calling in a professional every two years to thoroughly clean and inspect the ventilation system.

Not only can he check the filters and channels, but he can also adjust the settings to make sure everything is working properly.

This is crucial to avoid future difficulties and extend the life of your system.

Self-maintenance options for filters, rotors and filters in front of air outlets and inlets

Many models offer self-maintenance options to make maintaining your ventilation system easier. Before inlet and outlet, you can easily check and maintain air filters, rotors and filters.

Typically, these self-maintenance options are easy to use and allow you to keep your system in good condition without relying on professional help.

When planning the system, think about easy access

When planning, consider accessibility when installing a new ventilation system or overhauling an existing system.

This can help reduce maintenance costs in the future. Make sure all important parts are easily accessible so that inspections and cleaning can be carried out without much hassle.

Avoid cleaning agents containing sand or acid

It is important to use the right cleaning product when cleaning your ventilation system. Cleaning agents containing sand or acid should be avoided as they can damage the sensitive parts of your system.

To ensure that your system is not damaged during the cleaning process, you should instead use mild cleaning products and techniques recommended by your manufacturer.

Never clean the heat accumulator in the dishwasher, but by hand

It is very important to clean the heat accumulator carefully. The dishwasher should never be used as this can cause significant damage.

It is advisable to clean the heat accumulator by hand. To remove dirt and debris, you can use warm water and a soft cloth.

Reinsert the fan with the plug in the same orientation

If you remove the fan from the ventilation system to clean it, make sure that it is in the same position again after cleaning.

This is crucial to ensure it functions properly and ensures effective air circulation.

Pay attention to markings for the correct positioning of the components

Paying attention to markings is another important piece of advice when maintaining your ventilation system.

You should mark these before removing components such as filters, heat accumulators or fans to clean or replace them. This makes the precise positioning of the components much easier and prevents errors during reinstallation.

Annual cleaning recommended for exterior finishes

It is advisable to clean the outside of your ventilation system at least once a year. Depending on the design of your system, this can look different and, for example, be equipped with slats.

It is best to clean with a damp cloth and, if necessary, a soft brush to remove dirt and debris. Annual cleaning improves air circulation.

Semi-annual cleaning for heat accumulator and fan recommended

It is recommended to clean the heat accumulator and the fan of your ventilation system every two years. This helps these parts function efficiently without accumulating contaminants that could affect performance.

Use compressed air or a soft brush to clean the heat accumulator and check the fan for dust and dirt.

Remove and check filter without tools

It is advisable to check your ventilation system filters at regular intervals. Good news: You can usually remove and check the filters without tools.

This makes maintenance easier and ensures that your system always works with clean filters.

Recommended filter change every six months

The air that enters your rooms is mainly cleaned by the filters in your ventilation system. Depending on the air quality in your area, experts recommend changing your filter every six months or annually.

More frequent changes may be necessary if you have allergies or live in an area with high levels of air pollution.

Filter - replacement necessary in the long term

There are some types of filters that can be cleaned and reused. However, this is not the case with all filters. Typically pollen and activated carbon filters are disposable and need to be replaced.

To ensure optimal performance from your ventilation system, you should consider the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific filter type.

Final thoughts

You can ensure that your ventilation system always works efficiently and reliably to ensure clean and healthy air quality in your rooms by following these tips and recommendations.

A continuous supply of fresh air is guaranteed in the long term through regular maintenance and care.

Frequently asked questions about cleaning the ventilation system:

Why is regular maintenance of my ventilation system important??

Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure air quality, reduce energy consumption and avoid expensive repairs.

How often should I change the filters in my ventilation system??

Filters should be replaced every 6 months to annually depending on the air quality in your area.

Can I check and replace the filters myself??

Yes, most filters can be removed and checked without tools, making maintenance easier.

What are the risks of neglecting maintenance??

Neglected maintenance can lead to health problems, increased energy consumption and costly repairs.

How often should I consider professional cleaning??

Experts recommend professional cleaning every few years, especially for central ventilation systems.

What should I avoid when cleaning my ventilation system??

Avoid acidic cleaners and clean the heat accumulator by hand to prevent damage.