Four important factors that can affect the pressure drop of your ventilation system

High or unbalanced pressure drop can lead to increased running costs and inefficient performance of your ventilation system. In this post we will look at four important factors that can affect the pressure drop of the ventilation system in your building.

1. Design and dimensioning

Finding the perfect balance between the required air volume, available space and duct dimensions at the design stage is particularly important for a balanced airflow and overall system performance. Dampers or smaller duct diameters are used to balance the airflow. It is the task of the designer to find the optimum relationship between duct sizes and total pressure drop to minimise the pressure needed by the fan to overcome the resistance and move the required volume of air throughout the ventilation network. Correct sizing becomes very apparent when the air volume in an existing system needs to be increased at a later date. A 10% increase in air volume will result in a 22% increase in pressure drop, meaning that the power required to move the air will increase by as much as 34%.

2. Choice of components

The quality and design of ventilation components can either increase or decrease the pressure drop in a system. Accurate pressure drop data for each component is needed in order to size the system correctly and to use the fans or air handling units effectively. System designers are usually supported by design software and calculation tools that help to calculate the effects of all pressure losses in the ventilation system and to select the right products for efficient use of the fans and air handling units.  

3. Installation and commissioning

A perfectly designed ventilation system may not be of much use if it is not properly installed and commissioned. Accurate commissioning is important to ensure that the system is installed and operates as intended. Measuring the airflow and observing any high or uneven pressures and sound levels of the system is essential to ensure a good indoor climate and an energy efficient system. Installing or adjusting dampers may be necessary to balance the system with the correct airflow and lower pressure drop.

4. Service and maintenance

Maintaining and keeping the system clean is essential for a continued energy efficient system and a good indoor environment. Dirty filters will quickly increase the pressure drop in a system and filter changes are generally recommended once or twice a year. Ventilation control should also be carried out regularly by service technicians to review the operation of the system, the indoor environment and energy efficiency. Controlling the system can help to identify any airflow imbalances, excessive pressure drops and inefficient use of the fan. Any necessary adjustments can help to reduce electrical consumption of the fan and lower the pressure drop.

Ventilation components with low pressure drop help increase the energy efficiency and the overall performance of a ventilation system. Selecting flow-optimised, high-quality products with accurate data is therefore a wise investment in terms of both health and economy. Let Lindab help you meet today’s demands for low energy buildings and a healthy and safe indoor environment.