What is micro-ventilation of plastic windows, and how to organize it? How to ensure sufficient micro-ventilation on plastic windows How to open a double-glazed window for micro-ventilation

Remember: when there were old wooden windows in the apartment - were there any problems with stuffiness in the winter? Most likely not: cracks and leaks remained in the wooden frame, through which air penetrated inside even with the window closed.

Modern plastic windows are completely sealed. On the one hand, this is a plus, on the other hand, a closed window completely blocks the air flow, and it becomes stuffy inside.

To solve the problem without opening the window, micro-ventilation can be used. What it is, how it works and how it can be organized - we will consider below.

What is micro-ventilation of windows, and why is it necessary?

Micro-ventilation - the flow of air from the street through the window with a fully or almost completely closed sash. That is, the plastic window is closed, but air can flow weakly.

The task of such ventilation:

Provide fresh air for human breathing. Even through a small gap, about 10-40 m³ / h can pass (for reference: according to sanitary standards for 1 adult, it is necessary to provide an inflow of 30 m³ / h for breathing).
Avoid rising humidity.

The humidity in the room with the windows closed will increase due to human breathing, due to drying washed things, due to food being prepared in the kitchen. To understand that there is such a problem - it is possible by sweating windows.

Fresh outdoor air will reduce the level of humidity. This will help prevent mold growth.

Is micro-ventilation necessary?

For PVC windows, micro-ventilation is necessary if you notice such problems when the window is closed:

it is harder to breathe in the room: the air becomes stale;
mold appears in the room, and it is impossible to remove it to the end;
windows sweat: in cold weather, moisture accumulates on the glass, frame, sash, slopes, window sill;
clothes and bedding in the apartment are damp for no reason;
things after washing (if dried in the apartment) dry for a long time.

Instead of window micro-ventilation, you can put:

supply unit (the option is more expensive, but will provide more fresh air; there are models with electric heating of the incoming flow);
(cheaper than the unit, but provides less air, and does not have a heater);
wall heat exchanger (at a price about the same as the installation, but the air heats up without the cost of electricity, but due to the heat exchanger).

Why micro-ventilation is useful: about the benefits

M micro-slit ventilation is useful both in winter and in warm weather.

In winter (or autumn-spring), it is unlikely that you will want to ventilate a room by simply opening a window or a window: it is cold outside. This can be done, but only occasionally, and not for a long time (for example, during cleaning).

Micro-ventilation solves the problem: a little air enters through a small gap. Even outside -20 º , the indoor temperature will not drop much.

At any time of the year, micro-ventilation is good because the windows do not need to be opened. Thereby:

less street noise;
does not penetrate poplar fluff, insects;
precipitation does not fall.

Ways to organize

O slit ventilation can be arranged 4 ways:

Installation of the comb (accessories, purchased and installed separately).
Installation of a window valve (accessories, purchased and installed separately).
Through the slot ventilation mode on plastic windows (if it is provided, you won’t have to buy or install anything).
Through the holes in the window profile.

Let's look at each option in more detail below.

Comb (+ do-it-yourself installation video)

Comb (opening limiter, retainer) - bar notched , which is attached between the frame and the handle on the sash.This fixturedoes not allow the sash to open or close,fixing it at the selected distance.

Regulation is stepwise (most often - three-stage or four-stage). That is, the owner can adjust the degree of opening of the frame.

O basic information:

How much it costs: 150-300 rubles.
How much air will let through: enough for 1-3 people to breathe, even at the very first division (when the sash is minimally open).
When to choose:the device is worth using if not t slot ventilation mode, and you cannot install the valve yourself, and you do not want to pay specialists.

More about (types, manufacturers, prices, installation methods)can be read separately.

Window valve (+ video with the principle of operation)

The window valve is a flat body with an opening and a silencer filter that cuts into the frame. Through the valve, air can freely flow from the street into the apartment in a natural way.

If, during micro-ventilation and using a comb, the sash opens (albeit quite a bit), then the valve provides inflow with the window completely closed. Some models can be adjusted - they have a regulator to change the hole section. That is, the valve can be closed completely, or covered (relevant in winter, in severe frosts).

Basic information:

How much it costs: from 1000 rubles.
How much air will let through: on average 10-40 m³ / h
When to choose:if you want to maintain maximum sound insulation (for example, if there is a busy road under the windows).

More about (manufacturers, prices, installation method)can be read separately.

Window with slotted ventilation (+ video)

The most successful option is if micro-slit ventilation is provided in the window.

If you are going to change windows, you should ask the seller about this mechanism. If windows are already installed, you can check if they have such a function. To do this, turn the knob 45º . If it turns and locks in this position, there is a micro-ventilation mode.

In this mode, the window does not close completely: a small (3-5 mm) gap remains between the frame and the sash, through which air enters.

Basic information:

How much it costs: if your windows have such a mode - not at all. If you buy a new window, fittings with micro-ventilation will cost 1000-2000 extra rubles in addition to the "normal" cost.
How much air will let through: a gap of 3-5 mm wide can let through an average of about 30-50 m³ / h. The figures are very approximate, and depend on the height of the frame and the power of the exhaust ventilation.
When to choose: If you are going to change windows.

The popularity of plastic windows, their widespread use are quite justified, since they have a number of positive characteristics, one of the main of which is tightness. In turn, this leads to the fact that the air exchange in the room is disturbed.

Proper air circulation is, of course, very important for normal human life. Therefore, manufacturers of plastic windows solve this problem quite simply using the micro-ventilation function.

What is micro ventilation

Micro-ventilation is a special ventilation system that allows fresh air to enter the room. Especially often the system is used in winter, when air from the street is simply necessary, and it is not possible to open the doors due to the occurrence of drafts that are dangerous to health.

Device

This function is activated using a special piece of fittings, as a result of which a small hole of about 0.5 cm in size is formed between the frame and the sash.

Fresh air enters the room through this hole. If there is a strong wind outside, you can not worry that the window will slam shut abruptly and the sashes will be damaged. The micro-ventilation mechanism is reliable and well fixed.

Advantages and disadvantages

We can name the following positive aspects when using a micro-ventilation system:

Fresh air supply without overcooling the room in winter.
In summer, hot air will not enter the room.
Window protection against fogging, no condensation.
No drafts.
Long service life of the mechanism.
Normal humidity in the room, as a result, the absence of harmful bacteria, mold and fungi.
There is no stagnant air and unpleasant odors in the room, constant air exchange.
Windows can be left open in the micro-ventilation mode, even if the room is left for a long time.

There are practically no disadvantages to this ventilation system, the following can be distinguished as disadvantages:

Settling of dirt and dust on the mechanism itself, installed on the window sash.
The lack of sound insulation in such mechanisms of low quality.

Mechanisms

There are several standard mechanisms for implementing a micro-ventilation system:

Comb (multi-stage system). It is a small plastic bar with wavy teeth. The hinged sash of the window is fixed with a groove in the comb. The distance formed between the sash and the frame may be different, depending on which groove is selected. The comb is installed after the windows have been installed.

This is one of the most popular micro-ventilation mechanisms because it is easy to install and use and has a number of additional benefits:

The frame remains intact.
Using a comb, you can control the flow of air by opening the window at a distance of 30 to 60 degrees.
Low cost. In other words, the comb is a limiter installed on the sash, which makes it possible to open the window to a selected distance.

Climate valve. This mechanism is installed on top of the sash, just like the comb, it does not violate the integrity of the frame and does not affect the soundproofing characteristics. Such a device provides an influx of fresh air into the room, and the valve membrane takes into account the difference in temperature conditions outside and inside. The climate valve can be manual and automatic, in the first version the user himself can regulate the air flow, and in the second, the valves work independently in the range from 30 to 70% relative air humidity.

The option of micro-ventilation with the help of a climate valve is now quite popular, since air enters through the upper part of the sash without affecting the sound insulation in the room.

Special fittings, the mechanism of which is hidden in the profile. This type of device is called slotted micro-ventilation. The gap for air penetration does not exceed 3 mm, this is quite enough for the normal circulation of air masses. This is the only mechanism that can only be installed on sash windows, if the width of the window leaf does not exceed 5 cm. The device is built into the frame section near the handle, and when it is turned by 45 degrees, the sash opens slightly.

Multistage ventilation system. With this mechanism, a latch is placed in the tilt-and-turn system of a plastic window, with the help of which the sash can be located from the frame at a distance of 0.5 to 3.5 cm.

What to consider when choosing a micro-ventilation mechanism

There are a number of points that should be considered when choosing such a ventilation system:

Device installation method. External mechanisms are easier to install than those that are built into the window frame, in addition, they are several times cheaper.
Mechanism management. External mechanisms allow you to adjust the flow of air into the room at your discretion, and the built-in valves adjust this balance automatically.
thermal insulation characteristics. Mechanisms made of metal elements should be insulated from the side of the room, since frost can form on them.
soundproof characteristics. Attention should also be paid to this factor in order to avoid extraneous noise entering the room along with fresh air.

Required fittings

To install the mechanism, the following elements may be needed, depending on the type of micro-ventilation chosen:

special valve, having movable membranes inside, this allows you to control the level of air penetration into the room.
Comb, which is a small plastic hook with three rounded notches.
collapsible brake, consisting of two parts that are attached to the sash and frame, it blocks the opening angle.
corner gear, a mechanism that blocks the tilt and turn position of the sash, it looks like a comb, but has more grooves.

How to install and adjust micro-ventilation

If the room already has good plastic windows, but the micro-ventilation mode was not provided for in them, you can mount it yourself by following a series of fairly simple instructions. The time of work and their complexity depends on the type of ventilation device chosen.

Step-by-step instruction

1. Installing the comb mechanism

In plastic windows, usually the handle can only be in three positions: horizontal (the window is fully open), vertical up (ventilation mode) and vertical down (the window is closed). If a comb is installed on the window frame, intermediate handle positions will appear.

You can buy a comb at any specialized store and install it on the window yourself as follows:

Turn the trim on the window handle 90 degrees, unscrew the screws that secure it to the window and remove it.
Attach a rod that performs a locking function to the attachment point and screw the handle to the same place.
Attach the comb to the window, taking into account the position of the rod, and mark the places where it will be fixed.
Screw the comb to the window frame using self-tapping screws.

This is the easiest way to install micro-ventilation on a window.

2. Installation of the supply valve

For installation work, you will need a Phillips screwdriver, a marker, a ruler and a clerical knife.

Stages of work:

Open the sash and remove part of the seal with a knife in the place where the valve is to be installed (both on the frame and on the sash).
On the resulting place, stick the gasket, which is sold together with the valve in one set, and install three plugs.
Securely fix the valve and fix it with self-tapping screws, passing them through the brackets.
Place a seal in the space between the brackets.

The gap that forms between the valve and the seal will allow air to pass through. Such a valve can be controlled by an automatic system or manually. The main thing is to ensure that in winter the valve is not completely closed, otherwise frost will appear on it. The device should be cleaned every six months, removing dust; household chemicals should not be used for this purpose.

To adjust the mechanism if it deteriorates, you can use a special screwdriver. It is necessary to correct the upper and lower loops, after checking that they do not sag.

The micro-ventilation mode is a serious useful advantage. Micro-ventilation will be simply indispensable in apartments and houses where elderly people, small children, patients with problems with the respiratory system live. Proper air circulation in the room is the key to the future health of the whole family.

What is good about a plastic window? It is comfortable to use, reduces the noise level in the room. In addition, it prevents the penetration of dust and polluted air into the room. But such a window is hermetically sealed, in addition to dust, fresh air does not enter the room. In order to solve this issue, micro-ventilation systems for plastic windows are designed. These are window ventilation devices that allow the right amount of clean air to enter the room.

So, micro-ventilation: what is it? The photo shows that this is natural supply ventilation through an ajar window sash or an air infiltration valve.

Advantages and disadvantages of micro-ventilation systems

The main task, and at the same time, the advantage of micro-ventilation devices is to ensure the flow of fresh air into the room. This is especially important, given that plastic windows do not allow air to pass through, thereby creating some difficulties for residents. In addition, window ventilation structures have the following advantages:

Easy installation and maintenance.
Stability of fresh air supply, without the use of external power sources.
Protection against fogging of windows, fight against formation of condensate.
There are no drafts when using these devices.
Window air ducts can be kept open at all times to ensure constant air exchange.

There are practically no drawbacks to window ventilation. Except perhaps for the settling of dust and dirt on the structural elements of the ventilation device and low noise suppression. It is noted that the use of natural air supply is inefficient with poorly functioning exhaust ventilation.

Micro-ventilation devices

It's easy to ventilate the room - open the window and that's it. But in this case, drafts dangerous to health appear in the room. In addition, a sudden gust of wind can slam the window sash, causing it to break. In connection with these reasons, window ventilation devices are installed. The most widespread are the three main options for micro-ventilation of plastic windows. They differ in the complexity of installation, adjustment and performance. It is noted that each device has its own advantages and disadvantages. Consider options for micro-ventilation devices

Comb

The easiest design to install. Its function is to fix the ajar window sash. By design, this is a plastic multi-position limiter comb mounted on a fixed frame and a fixing rod fixed on the movable part. When opening the sash, the comb groove is put on the rod. At the same time, the window sash is fixed in the open position, providing an influx of fresh air.

This device is easy to install, does not require specialized tools for installation, and is inexpensive. Air intake control is accessible and understandable. But at the same time, the comb allows noise and soot from the street to penetrate into the room. It is noted that the design of the comb is short-lived, since the working element is constantly subjected to temperature changes and various kinds of mechanical stress.

Climate valve

Air infiltration valve installed in the window frame. Optimal in performance, micro-ventilation option. The scheme of the device is simple and clear. In this case, a special ventilation device, an air infiltration valve, is mounted in the window frame. Its advantages:

Adjustable air flow.
Security, the valve works when the window is closed, so it is impossible to enter the room through an open window.
Noise protection of the room, since in this case the air passes through a special device.
Wide range of valves, manual or automatic.
Use in the design of air purification filters.

There are also disadvantages, so the valve requires periodic maintenance. In addition, its installation weakens the strength of the frame. And the efficiency of the valve depends on the functionality of the exhaust ventilation. The cost of this type of micro-ventilation, on plastic windows, is slightly higher, but this is offset by its functions and capabilities. It is best to entrust the installation of a climate valve to a plastic window installation and repair service, but if you have the right tool and the skills to work with it, you can install the valve yourself.

Slit micro-ventilation

In this case, the possibility of micro-ventilation of the window is provided by the manufacturer. Fittings for micro-ventilation are installed inside the frame. At a certain position of the window opening handle, the sash opens slightly at a fixed angle. In this case, the opening handle uses four positions:

Vertically up - the sash folds up.
Up at an angle of 45 degrees, the sash opens slightly, leaving a gap for air flow.
Horizontally, the sash opens sideways.
Vertically down, sash closed.

This type of micro-ventilation mechanism is convenient in terms of ergonomics, but like a comb, it does not protect against noise, in addition, it allows dust from the street to enter the room. Slit micro-ventilation increases the cost of windows.

Do-it-yourself micro-ventilation

You can install a comb with your own hands, or if you have a tool and skills to work with it, you can install a climate valve. How to make micro-ventilation? Everything is simple.

Comb installation

To work, you need a screwdriver, Phillips and screw screwdrivers. You may need a drill. Fasteners necessary for mounting the comb are supplied with the fittings themselves.

It is necessary to mark the place for installing the comb, while keeping in mind that the fixing rod is installed on the opening handle. The comb is installed on the vertical vein of the window frame.
After marking, you need to remove the window handle. To do this, pull and turn the decorative trim, thereby opening access to the screws, remove the handle. After that, we install the rod on the handle attachment site and assemble the structure in the reverse order.
We install the comb itself in place.
You can adjust the micro-ventilation by installing the groove of the comb on the rod, at the desired opening angle of the sash.

Do-it-yourself climate valve installation

In this case, some tools and accessories are required. You need a drill, a grinder saw with a cutting disc, a screwdriver or a set of Phillips screwdrivers. Of the materials you need a sealant or silicone. In addition, you may have to make a template-conductor. It will be needed for accurate and accurate cutting of the ventilation duct with your own hands.

The process itself. First, mark the ventilation duct. First, with a drill along the edges of the hole, then with a grinder, we give the hole its final shape. Using a screwdriver or a Phillips screwdriver, we mount the valve itself and fittings in place. Do not forget about finishing the ventilation ducts on the outside of the window. When installing the valve, do not forget about the tightness of the connections, in addition to fasteners, use sealant or silicone.

After installing the damper, adjust it for the desired clean air flow. You can set the micro-ventilation mode using the product instruction manual. Well, do not forget to periodically clean it inside, as dust and soot from the street pollute the filters.

There is a wide range of micro-ventilation devices on the market. You can choose depending on the budget, the complexity of installation or the device itself. But at the same time, on the basis of price - quality, the built-in version of the climate valve remains optimal. Despite the price, only the valve provides the necessary flow of clean air and the safety of the room from outside penetration. In addition, it is the only ventilation method that protects against noise, which is important in modern cities.

Separately, it is worth noting that the quality of the product directly depends on the price of the product and on the manufacturer. It is recommended to purchase ventilation devices in trusted stores. This will guarantee the reliable operation of the device. Even in the case of the simplest comb, the discrepancy between the strength characteristics of the product will lead to increased wear and failure. And also it is worth paying attention to the complete set and functions of the product. So, a comb with latches on the positional grooves will not allow a child to open the window, which guarantees the safety of using the window for ventilation. Windows with micro-ventilation in this way will not only help protect the health in the apartment, but also, possibly, protect the home from encroachment by unauthorized persons, and the ventilation procedure will become more comfortable and safer.

In the construction world, the installation of metal-plastic windows with double-glazed windows has long been considered the norm. It is much more convenient to use such glazing than ordinary wooden windows. Metal-plastic structures are easy and quick to clean, there is no need to paint them, and they serve for quite a long time.

The undoubted advantage of PVC glazing is its tightness. And this same feature is a bit of a problem. Keeping the temperature in the room, metal-plastic windows also do not allow moisture to pass through and do not allow fresh air to flow in. The micro-ventilation function will help to get rid of this problem.

How can micro-ventilation be arranged

The solution to the issue of air access to the room has 3 classic solutions:

installation of special fittings;
sash opening limiter device (comb);
installation of the supply air damper.

All solutions for adjusting micro-ventilation in plastic windows have their pros and cons, while all of them solve the main task - air ventilation in the room without drafts.

After considering all the details, you can decide on a solution suitable for a particular situation.

window fittings

Metal parts will ensure the opening of the window in different planes

When assembling the window, metal parts are installed in the groove on the profile, which provide various opening positions and hold the sash in the closed position. A micro-ventilation mechanism can be included in this system. Ideally, it is installed immediately at the time of assembly at the factory.

But if the window was mounted a long time ago, it is quite possible to install the mechanism in place. To do this, you should contact the experts. Any company involved in the repair of metal-plastic structures provides this service.

The mechanism fixes the gap between the sash and the frame, sufficient for air to enter (no more than 3 mm). It usually opens by turning the handle 45 degrees. There are mechanisms for multi-stage fixation (turning the handle by 15, 45 and 60 degrees).

This is the best solution, but not everyone will be able to implement it on their own.

Opening limiter

Methods of micro-ventilation in double-glazed windows

Installing a multi-stage opening fixation mechanism is the most budget option, and this is its main advantage. The comb itself is inexpensive, and anyone who knows how to use a screwdriver can install it.

Before installation, mark the places on the frame for drilling with a pencil. The tongue is usually installed under the handle:

remove the decorative trim, unscrew the handle;
attach the latch tab;
put a handle on top and screw the screws into their original places, put on a decorative trim;
screw the comb mechanism to the window frame.

This method has disadvantages: the likelihood of damage to the window profile and the rapid loss of the internal temperature of the room, even with a minimum gap.

micro-ventilation valve

The most technologically advanced solution to the problem of air flow is the installation of a micro-ventilation valve. It is mounted on the upper frame in the center of the sash part. You can do it yourself, detailed instructions are attached to the mechanism. Manual and automatic valves are available for sale. They differ in price and adjustment method.

Before any type of installation, replace the seal rubber with the one supplied with the assembly. To learn how to install a micro-ventilation valve, see this video:

When choosing this solution, it will not be possible to save, the cost of structures is quite high. But by installing the valve, you get constant air ventilation, the intensity of which can be adjusted.

At the same time, there is no noise, dust and insects inside the room. It is worth noting that ventilation through the valve will occur with the window closed, which is important for parents of small children and pet owners.

So, the easiest to install and budget is the option of installing an opening limiter. The most expensive and most functional is the valve device. The installation of a micro-ventilation system in window fittings will be average both in terms of price and capabilities.

Plastic windows are a modern solution for the improvement of every home. The disadvantage of PVC products is the lack of fresh air. This problem can be solved by conventional micro-ventilation. To do this, turn the window handle at an angle of 45 °.

The room must be ventilated 4 times a day for 15 minutes. Otherwise, the following ventilation of plastic windows is performed:

slot micro-ventilation, which involves the installation of a special mechanism in the profile of the structure, the size of the gap is 2-3 mm;
comb or multi-stage micro-ventilation, which consists in mounting different slots, this technology is not used in the folding system;
valve (mounted at the top of the window).

Installing a comb is considered the cheapest method of home ventilation. Installation work is carried out on the window profile. The comb is made of plastic. The technology under consideration has 2 disadvantages:

Deterioration of heat and sound insulation.
The fragility of the structure.

Slotted micro-ventilation of plastic windows provides for the installation of the system in the window profile (during production). Of the minuses of this technology, experts single out the formation of a gap (between the sash and the frame), through which dirt and dust will enter the room. A plastic window can be provided with forced ventilation. The mechanism used to supply the home with oxygen is convenient to use and has high efficiency.

A valve is mounted in the upper part of the sash. It provides constant circulation of air masses in the house. When installing the considered mechanism, the sound-proof and heat-insulating properties of plastic windows do not change. The valve is self-adjusting, but it is not adapted to work with significant temperature fluctuations. Therefore, growths of ice and snow form in the structure, the operation of the mechanism and the thermal insulation of the house are disrupted.

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Advantages of ventilation

The ventilation system provided in the plastic window has the following advantages:

preventing hot air from entering the house on hot days;
reliable protection against drafts;
air hygiene support;
ensuring constant air exchange in the house;
prevention of hypothermia in the children's room;
protection against formation of condensate on window sills;
long service life of the mechanism;
the ability to fix the window sash.

You can install such micro-ventilation with the help of professionals. Upon completion of installation work, specialists conduct briefings. If you turn the handle of the window frame by 45° and pull it towards you, then a gap of 1-3 mm will appear (after clicking). System installed successfully. Some mechanisms are mounted in the sash profile. In this case, micro-ventilation is triggered by turning the knob down by 135°.

Adjustment of such a system is carried out with the help of professionals. Otherwise, you will need a Torx screwdriver. Adjustment of the mechanism is carried out in two places (upper and lower loop). Pre-check the diagonals against sagging. From the lower element, the indicator should be longer (0-3 mm) than from the upper loop.

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