With the increasing need for a ventilation system in the house, choosing between active and passive can become a bit challenging. If you have a suitable ventilation system, it can keep the indoor air healthy and fresh. In other words, a proper ventilation system helps your home breathe better by ensuring that the fresh air comes in and the dirty air exits the house. So, how do you know which one you need?
In this blog, we will go over the differences between active ventilation and passive ventilation to help you understand the distinguishing features of each. Carry on reading to learn which might be more suitable for you!
Active Ventilation vs. Passive Ventilation: What Are They?
An active ventilation system aids the airflow in indoor spaces with the help of mechanical fans. This system is especially beneficial for spaces with an excess buildup of moisture and places that are vulnerable to collecting unneeded heat. In addition, since active ventilation improves air circulation, it prevents a hazardous buildup of gasses or odors where chemicals, equipment, and vehicles are stored. In simple terms, active ventilation works by sucking and pulling the unhealthy air out of your house while the intake vents move fresh air to maintain healthy air circulation.
The other type of ventilation system is passive ventilation. In this system, natural methods such as air currents are used to provide air circulation. By regulating the air temperature, passive ventilation allows fresh air inside the house while simultaneously pushing out the old stale air. In comparison to active ventilation, which uses motor, fan blades, or a turbine, passive vents depend on natural airflow.
Types of Active and Passive Vents
Active vents and passive vents are further divided into more types, which can help you understand the difference between the two even better.
When it comes to active vents, you can find the following types:
- Turbine vents
- Power vents
- Solar powered vents
- Ridge vents
On the other hand, types of passive vents include:
- Static vents
- Ridge vents
- Gable end vents
Benefits & Downsides of Active Ventilation
When deciding on a ventilation system, it is important to consider the benefits as well as the disadvantages it offers. The active ventilation system, too, has both pros and cons.
With active vents, you can look forward to the following benefits:
- Weather conditions do not affect the efficiency of active vents. So, whether it is windy outside or not, active ventilation will function optimally as it runs on energy force.
- Complex designs are not challenging for active ventilation systems. It may be difficult to keep the attic safe from heat or moisture due to its design, but not with active vents. They have a unique power, which helps keep the structure ventilated.
But before you decide, consider these disadvantages as well:
- You may notice an increase in your home’s energy bills since active vents use energy.
- The moving parts in an active ventilation system will wear and tear over time, which means you will have to be diligent with yearly maintenance.
Pros & Cons of Passive Ventilation
Passive vents, too, have their share of advantages and disadvantages.
The pros of passive vents include:
- It uses natural forces to keep your home cool, which means you can save on energy bills.
- Passive vents are considered a green system since they do not use fossil fuels for power.
- They require minimal maintenance; just check them every year to make sure nothing is obstructing the vents.
Passive vents, too, have a downside due to the following factors:
- Heavily relies on other factors, such as the pitch, height, and temperature of the roof.
- If heat and moisture accumulate, passive vents cannot conduct sufficient airflow to keep the moisture out of these places.
What’s Next?
Active ventilation and passive ventilation are two separate systems with their unique set of features. Therefore, contact a professional ventilation service for suggestions on what to choose. At Crump AC & Heating, we prioritize your needs and comfort. Dial (281) 533-9200 to talk to us today or visit our team at 535 E Fernhurst Dr #312, Katy, TX 77450, United States.