As mentioned above, vents are a great way to reduce condensation in rooms that are poorly ventilated, as well as a great way to maximize airflow. Most window systems are compatible with these vents, and even if the window frame is not compatible, the vents can be installed independently. Some may want to improve the aesthetics of the window and in this case a window board catcher can be installed. These are compatible with most UPVC windows and provide a great look to the windows. Those still in the process of building their home should first make sure hired contractors have no trouble installing UPVC windows, before considering vents or plate receivers.
However, let’s go back to drip vents and look at some of the benefits of having them installed. It is well known that building regulations state that adequate ventilation is required in any home or building. It is also well known that poor ventilation in rooms can have consequences on the health of those who live in those rooms. Adequate air circulation is mandatory in all habitable rooms in the house, as microscopic organisms pollute the air, due to the humidity that occurs naturally in the house, as well as the mold that begins to form from condensation . Living in a moldy room where the air is contaminated with dust mites and other microscopic organisms is a major health concern, and proper ventilation is the only way to prevent that from happening. These microorganisms can lead to lung conditions, depression, and even heart conditions, if left unchecked.
Opening windows regularly is a good way to ventilate and sometimes the only way to ventilate for those who do not have drip vents but have sealed windows that prevent air from entering the room. Previously, before sealed windows became common in most homes, the small gaps present between the window frames and the building structure provided ventilation. Since that’s no longer the case, a drip vent is a great ventilation solution. They are usually placed on top of the window frame and can be controlled. This means that they can be opened to allow fresh air in and polluted air out, or they can be closed. That sounds like a normal window, but the advantage is that the vents can be left open at all times, even when on vacation, as opposed to windows that must be closed when the house is left empty. Even those windows that have a night latch must be closed at night or when the house is empty for longer periods of time, due to the security risk they pose.
Also, unlike a normal window, a drip vent does not contribute significantly to heat loss. That means it doesn’t really matter if it is left open at all times, because the temperature difference is negligible. There are no downsides to installing such a vent in the window frame, and they can even be operated in conjunction with mechanical fans, for when more ventilation power is needed.
With a long list of important benefits such as improved safety, reduced health concerns, and reduced heat loss, drip vents are certainly something worth considering. Most UPVC windows are compatible with them, and good vents are superbly designed and completely unobtrusive. Since building codes state that adequate ventilation is required in living spaces, such vents are not only the cheapest solution, they are also the easiest to install. Almost any window board should be adequate and installing the vents should not be complicated for good contractors. As long as they know a thing or two about installing UPVC windows, they probably also know how to install a drip vent. However, after the successful installation of the vents, a definite improvement in air quality should be felt, especially if the room was previously unventilated except when the window was open. Especially those who suffer from allergies should feel a significant improvement in the quality of their sleep and a reduction in allergy symptoms. Remember that proper ventilation can save your life, in some cases.