In some cases, ducting must be running through a wall in order to allow the extracted air to escape, preventing humidity from forming, and removing pollutants in the air. But can any kind of duct be running through a wall? Or is it only limited to rigid ducting?
In this blog, we will answer the question ‘Can you run flex duct through a wall?’
With new buildings being made to be as energy efficient as possible, and the UK aiming for 95% of its electricity usage to be low carbon by 2030, it is imperative to understand how we can make the most of our ventilation. This is where MVHR units come in.
To prevent mould, fresh air should constantly be introduced into your dwelling daily, as it helps to regulate temperature and reduce condensation. Introducing fresh air can be as simple as having a ventilation routine, or installing extractors or MVHR units. Almost all of this is facilitated by ducting.
I-Sells is here to provide the answers you need whilst also supplying you with all the information you need to combat mould and have a well-ventilated home.
Does all ventilation require outdoor air?
No. Some ventilation systems such as a fan, a standing air conditioning unit and more do not require outdoor air to ventilate. These particular machines intake and redistribute the air surrounding it.
Although these forms of ventilation can create a sense of coolness and relief, realistically, you are just recycling the same air, with the same pollutants, at a different temperature.
A normal extractor fan also does not require outdoor air, it only deposits what it extracts outside. However, you can improve the ventilation further, as well as the efficiency and effectiveness of an extractor fan, by simply opening a window too.
MVHR units make use of outdoor air, filtering it to ensure it is as clean as possible and redistributing it into your dwelling whilst working to remove the humid air that could potentially create mould. Both normal extractor fans, and MVHR units require ducting that connects to the outside.
Is it better to have your windows open all the time?
You may think that having your windows open all the time is the best option to ensure ventilation is consistent. However, it can prove to be difficult, especially in colder weather, and in wet and windy conditions.
Yes, a window that is always open will guarantee an exit for most humidity, but it comes at the cost of the room’s heat escaping too. An open window is a great assist for ventilation purposes, however, we would recommend opening it at specific times, for specific intervals, especially if the weather outside is less than ideal.
Can you run flex duct through a wall?
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Yes, but running a flexible duct through the wall is only recommended in certain circumstances, and should be avoided in other situations. Flex ducts are generally better for short runs. If you are using a flex duct for a long run, you may run into certain problems.
Flex ducts are prone to sagging, and can become an issue for HVAC applications, which would require rigid ducting in most cases for optimum performance. However, sagging can be rectified by using straps, this just depends on the space you have on hand.
Typically, flex ducts are generally used in instances in which space for rigid ducting is not feasible. When it comes to running one through the wall, you should also make sure that the wall it is going through is free from debris and any jagged edges. Try to ensure the space is as smooth as possible to prevent any possible cuts that can damage the flexible ducting.
Do I have to run ducting through a wall?
In a vast majority of cases, yes. Especially if your ventilation system has extraction capabilities, such as a kitchen or bathroom extractor fan. Alternatively, there are certain extractor fans that can run through a window.
Whether it is a wall or a window, any ventilation system that extracts indoor air must have an outdoor space to deposit what it has extracted, otherwise the function becomes completely invalid. Even so, there aren’t any established ways to repurpose extracted indoor air, so the best option is to vent it outside.
If you refuse to run your ducting to an outside space, you will find that humidity collects in your home, or the space in question, quite easily. What’s more is that if this humidity is not addressed in any way, it becomes a breeding ground for mould to develop, which in itself causes multiple issues.
Do I need to be qualified to run ducting through a wall?
There are no mandatory qualifications required for installing ducting through a wall in your own property. However, you will need a qualified electrician if you are installing the ventilation system.
In regard to duct installation, although you don’t need a qualification to do it yourself, it would be recommended to use the services of an expert. The minimum certification you should look out for is a “Level 2 NVQ — Heating and Ventilating — Ductwork installation”.
By using the services of a certified expert, you can rest assured that they have the professional insight to deal with your ducting installation with no complications.
How can I stop humidity in my home?
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Humidity is impossible to stop from forming, the factor that determines whether it becomes condensation and mould is simply how you get rid of the humidity.
Adopting a daily ventilation routine is the best way to prevent the harm humidity can cause. Being mindful of using an extractor fan whilst having an open window whilst you shower, opening a window and using a cooker hood whilst cooking are both simple yet effective methods you can put into practice today.
Can I buy flexible ducting online?
Yes. I-Sells is a provider of ventilation solutions and everything that comes with it, including ducting. We supply flexible ducting and much more.
Whether it is flexible aluminium or PVC ducting you’re searching for, we have it. Some of our options can also vary in diameter in accordance with your needs. This includes 100 mm and 102 mm in diameter. This also applies to the lengths we have available.
Do I have to install ducting myself?
Not at all. Although, HVAC technicians offer services which can include installation of a HVAC system and its ducting for most if not all kinds of properties. Please note that the complexity of the job at hand could alter the price if there are no fixed rates for certain services.
Alternatively, you can install your ducting yourself, as long as it ends up being compliant to part F of building regulations, and does not compromise the safety of any person in the property.
Though this second option can be especially difficult if you have no experience, equipment, or guidance. If you are struggling, please feel free to contact us, and we may be able to point you in the right direction.
Invest in flexible ducting today
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We at I-Sells endeavour to ensure our customers have all the information they require before investing in our mould solutions. Be sure to visit our blog page to learn about the vast array of factors and issues surrounding ventilation, mould, condensation, and much more.
We hope to have answered the question ‘Can you run flex duct through a wall?’
We understand you may have more questions, do not hesitate to contact us for more information about whatever you need our help with. If you’d like to send us an email, click here. For other contact options, see below:
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