In this article, you will learn from our Chief Engineer Oleg Kuzya what trends and new technologies will be used in ventilation systems in the future. Trends and analysis of existing technological solutions.

Modern trends in the development of ventilation systems are becoming more environmentally friendly, technologically advanced and focused on ensuring high comfort and safety in the premises every year. This is especially true in the context of growing urbanization, climate change and the need for energy efficiency.

Analysis of existing types of ventilation systems

Fresh air is essential for human life. Its quality can have a significant impact on health, well-being, and productivity. Studies show that people feel better and work more efficiently in rooms with clean, fresh air.

That’s why the human need for a comfortable microclimate has led to a number of technical inventions aimed at providing fresh indoor air.

There are many solutions to the problem of supplying quality indoor air on the current ventilation market, but are they all effective and efficient? Prana Chief Engineer Oleg Kuz shared his opinion on current trends in ventilation.

For modern consumers, the issue of efficient indoor ventilation is becoming increasingly important. Many factors have contributed to the increased relevance of this issue, particularly for different types of premises. For example, for medical premises – due to the increase in the level of viral diseases, for bomb shelters and shelters – due to the prolonged stay of a large number of people at the same time, for kindergartens and schools – due to the urgency of the above problems.

In most types of premises, the natural ventilation system does not provide a level of air exchange that meets national standards. As a rule, ventilation is carried out by opening windows, which is an energy-consuming and, above all, uncomfortable solution, especially in the cold season. That is why it is very important to install a mechanical controlled ventilation system.

There are two types of mechanical ventilation systems: centralized and decentralized.

A centralized ventilation system is a more complex and comprehensive system.

Installing a centralized ventilation system requires complex design and installation of air ducts, which can be quite costly and requires considerable effort. Such systems are usually installed at the stage of construction or major repairs, as their installation in already constructed buildings is often difficult. That is why ventilation of premises using compact decentralized ventilation systems is becoming increasingly relevant.

An important aspect is the introduction of a mechanical controlled ventilation system, especially decentralized solutions that allow for individual adjustment of the air exchange volume in each room.

Decentralized ventilation systems are divided into several types, in particular:

• by the principle of operation (reversible, countercurrent);
• by the material of the heat exchanger (copper, aluminum, cellulose, ceramics, etc.)

The essence of the counterflow ventilation system is to simultaneously supply fresh air to the room and remove the exhaust air outside, explains Oleg. Such a device is equipped with a counterflow heat exchanger, which allows you to significantly save on energy resources due to heat recovery. In the process, the exhaust (warm) air transfers heat through the walls of the heat exchanger to the fresh supply air coming from outside, thereby heating it in winter or cooling it in summer. This ensures a comfortable microclimate without high energy costs.

The reversible ventilator works on the principle of cyclical air exchange. First, it extracts the exhaust air from the room, passing it through a ceramic element that accumulates heat. Then the device changes the direction of air flow, taking in fresh air from the street. This fresh air, passing through the same heated ceramic element, is heated and enters the room. After that, the cycle repeats.

As Oleg notes, «When using reversible ventilators with ceramic heat exchangers, there is a risk of contaminants accumulating on the surface of the heat exchanger. During the exhaust cycle, dust particles, bacteria, viruses and other harmful substances settle on the ceramic. When switching to the supply air cycle, these contaminants can be reintroduced into the room, especially if a filter is installed in the system. Filters, although they trap some of the contaminants, can also become a source of microorganisms when the airflow direction is changed.»

It is important to note that reverse ventilators work alternately for supply and exhaust, which necessitates installing them in pairs in each room – separately for supply and separately for exhaust, with synchronous operation settings.

While decentralized ventilation with recovery is a good choice for many spaces, counterflow systems show better results in terms of energy efficiency and air quality. They do not have the disadvantages of reversible systems and provide a more comfortable environment.

Technologies of the future in ventilation systems

Oleg emphasizes that current trends in the development of ventilation systems demonstrate the integration of innovative technologies aimed at improving energy efficiency, ensuring high air quality and adapting to modern environmental standards.

The key emphasis in the future will be on such criteria:

1. Energy efficiency and heat recovery

Recovery is becoming a key element of ventilation systems. Technologies can effectively save a significant percentage of heat, reducing heating and air conditioning costs.

2. Intelligent control

Ventilation systems are increasingly equipped with CO₂, temperature and humidity sensors, and support control via smartphones or other IoT devices. This allows the system to automatically adapt to the needs of the room.

3. Maintaining a healthy microclimate

Modern ventilation systems provide filtration from dust, allergens, bacteria, and other harmful particles. HEPA filters have become especially popular, as well as technologies that use ultraviolet light or ionization to purify the air.

4. Environmental friendliness and compliance with standards

Reducing carbon dioxide emissions and using recyclable materials are becoming the main requirements for new systems. Environmentally friendly ventilation systems receive international certificates that confirm their contribution to environmental protection.

5. Decentralized systems

The demand for customized solutions for individual rooms or zones is growing. Such systems are easier to install and can be used in residential buildings where the installation of central systems is difficult or impractical.

6. Integration with other building systems

Ventilation is increasingly becoming part of integrated building management systems (BMS). This ensures that ventilation functions in harmony with heating, air conditioning and lighting.

7. Design solutions

Ventilation devices are now not only functional, but also aesthetic. Their design harmoniously fits into modern interiors.

8. Renewable energy sources

Systems that use solar energy or other renewable resources for operation are becoming a promising trend, especially in countries with developed «green» construction.

These trends show that modern ventilation systems are focused on comfort, resource saving and environmental care, which meets the requirements of the times and consumer expectations.

So, to summarize, current trends in ventilation systems demonstrate a deep interconnection between technological progress, environmental responsibility and focus on human needs. Ventilation systems are no longer just a tool for replacing indoor air – they are becoming integrated solutions that affect energy consumption, quality of life and human health.

With global warming, urbanization, and rising comfort standards, the demand for efficient, environmentally friendly, and smart ventilation systems is growing steadily. Innovations such as heat recovery, intelligent control, and air filtration allow ventilation to adapt to new challenges. For example, heat recovery systems not only save energy, but also contribute to sustainable development by reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

In addition, health and safety are becoming the primary factors when choosing ventilation systems. The COVID-19 pandemic has emphasized the importance of quality air, which has stimulated the development of purification technologies. Companies continue to optimize ventilation systems and look for various solutions to improve indoor climate and avoid the spread of viruses in the future. This is especially important for public and medical facilities, schools, offices, and even private homes.

The integration of the ventilation process into users’ daily lives shows the growing focus on automation and comfort. For example, the creation of mobile applications for remote control of systems that help maintain a high level of air quality away from home. Ease of use and real-time monitoring are becoming a standard that influences the market and consumer behavior.

At the same time, there is a growing demand for decentralized systems that allow solving local problems in individual rooms or zones. This is especially true for residential buildings, historic buildings, or renovations where it is impossible to install centralized systems.

An additional important trend is the aestheticization of ventilation devices that harmoniously integrate into interior design. This indicates a new approach to ventilation not only as a technical necessity, but also as a part of the living space.

After all, modern ventilation systems are more than just technology. It is a synthesis of technology, environmental friendliness, aesthetics and focus on human well-being. The future of the industry will undoubtedly be determined by the search for even more effective solutions to combat climate change, save energy and create a comfortable and healthy living environment.