The cellar is a useful and functional room that can be filled not only with canned food, but also with fresh vegetables and fruits. We all want to eat harmless foods, how good it is to eat an apple or cabbage grown in our summer cottage in the winter season ... So that the cellar does not interfere, but, on the contrary, helps to preserve vegetables and fruits with the maximum amount of useful substances for a long time, in this auxiliary the room must be provided with high-quality ventilation.
The need for ventilation in the cellar
From time immemorial, the cellar was provided for the construction of residential buildings. In the absence of refrigerators, he helped keep food fresh for a long time. His can be roughly represented as a covered pit with reinforced walls. Very often it is a part of the basement of a building, equipped for storing agricultural products or other items.
The presence of ventilation is one of the main conditions for the long and uninterrupted functioning of the cellar.
Properly equipped ventilation is designed to solve the following tasks:
- Helps to avoid the accumulation of damp air.
- Extends the shelf life of fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Promotes a comfortable temperature and humidity.
- Prevents the appearance of mildew and mold.
- Makes the use of the cellar safe.
- Slows down the aging process of load-bearing building structures.
If there is no ventilation system in the cellar or it is installed incorrectly, then there is a possibility of spontaneous combustion due to the high concentration of carbon dioxide. This is especially true for heated rooms, in which heating devices are most often installed in the basement. The occurrence of fungi is also fraught with danger.
Moldy formations not only spoil the appearance of the premises, they pose a threat to human health. Inhaling spores from mold or mildew that penetrate from the cellar into living quarters, a person may suffer from asthma, chronic respiratory diseases, and at first glance unexplained allergic reactions may occur.
Ventilation is a whole system that includes various devices to create the correct air exchange in residential and non-residential premises.
The diagram clearly demonstrates all existing methods of air aeration
The classification of ventilation systems can be carried out according to various criteria, which are based on:
- method of pressure and movement of air masses;
- purpose (air inflow or outflow);
- coverage of the air exchange area (local or general);
- component design.
Natural
Ventilation can be divided into natural and artificial ventilation. The first way to ventilate premises is based on the simplest physical laws. Air exchange is carried out as a result of the appearance of the difference between the temperatures of the atmosphere and the room, as well as different pressure values.
No special equipment is needed for natural ventilation, the whole process is organized using air ducts. As a rule, no building construction project is complete without taking this point into account.
Natural ventilation directly depends on the materials used in the construction. Wooden, brick buildings are better ventilated in a natural way than concrete ones. Air permeability can be reduced by layers of paint, mortar. To help natural ventilation, windows and doors are periodically opened.
The natural ventilation system can be spontaneous or organized. The holes made at different heights and different diameters cope with the air exchange system in the second case.
This type of natural ventilation is perfect for cellars. But it has a significant disadvantage - dependence on climatic conditions.
Artificial
An artificial type of ventilation system is resorted to when the natural way of air exchange is not enough. In this situation, special devices are installed to help replace the used air in the room with clean air.
Filters, heaters, dust collectors, air ducts, fans, etc., perfectly cope with the tasks of cleaning the air, humidifying it, creating a comfortable temperature.
The design of premises with this type of ventilation involves the installation of these devices at the very initial stages of construction.
Positive aspects of artificial ventilation:
- independence from external natural factors (pressure, temperature, humidity);
- the possibility of a differentiated selection of the desired characteristics of the state of the room (humidity, temperature, etc.).
It is clear that the creation of artificial ventilation requires more material investments, physical costs. As a rule, this option is not applied to small cellars.
Very often, builders and designers create a mixed type of ventilation system that combines the advantages of both natural and artificial ventilation.
Supply and exhaust
If we put its purpose as the basis for the classification of ventilation, then we can talk about the supply and exhaust options.
In the first case, we are talking about forced air supply into the room. Waste air masses come out naturally.
An exhaust ventilation system is created specifically to improve the natural. This ventilation is based on fans, which help to remove exhaust air from the room.
Optimally for good air exchange, supply and exhaust ventilation should be used. This way it is possible to minimize the dependence of the ventilation operation on atmospheric pressure drops, on the direction and speed of movement of air masses.
Comparative characteristics of different types of ventilation
The table below clearly demonstrates all the pros and cons of different ventilation systems.
Table: positive and negative points of different ventilation
| Ventilation type | pros | Minuses |
| Natural | Doesn't need to mount complex components. Saves energy resources. Operation does not require significant material costs. | Air exchange is directly dependent on the climate - on the direction and strength of the wind, pressure drop and other moments of the external environment. |
| Artificial | The air exchange process can be regulated and automated by making the necessary settings. Intake of already purified air into the room. Insignificant indicators of noise "accompaniment" of ventilation. | Considerable cost of equipment. High price for installation work. Creating this type of ventilation on your own can lead to malfunctioning of the system (it is better to resort to the help of professionals). The system devices do not always fit into the interior of the premises. |
| Combined | Independence from external factors. Stability of work. | Creation of a complex system of ventilation ducts. Volatility. |
| Supply and exhaust | Reducing the cost of heating premises during the cold period. The ability to clean and filter air masses. Automatic operation mode. | Complex design. Dependence on the uninterrupted operation of energy sources. The costs of installing and purchasing devices included in the system. The high cost of work on the installation of a ventilation system. |
For the arrangement of ventilation in utility rooms, the natural type is most often used, since this is a less expensive method in many respects.
When planning the long-term operation of the utility room, you should take care of a reliable ventilation system. The choice of the type of structure for air exchange depends on the purpose of the cellar, material capabilities, climatic conditions and some other points.
Already at the stage of laying the foundation, channels are made in the proposed location of the cellar, into which ventilation pipes are subsequently mounted.
For an even distribution of air masses, ventilation pipes must be of the same diameter. Installation of pipes is best done on opposite walls or corners, then the air will not stagnate inside, the circulation will be constant.
DIY natural ventilation
The advantages of independent construction of natural ventilation are low cost, unnecessary professional knowledge, ease of installation.
If at the design stage it was decided to create natural ventilation in the cellar, then special holes are installed in the basement of the foundation - air vents, vents. To protect against the entry of various small animals (especially rodents) into the basement, the holes are closed with a grill.
The presence of the grate will help protect the cellar from small rodents entering it.
The air vents can be made adjustable by placing dampers with doors on the outlet openings.
The presence of a door will help to participate in the process of regulating air exchange
The principle of operation of natural ventilation in the cellar "dictates" the installation of two openings in this room - for air inlet and for its exit. The exhaust pipe is mounted at the top of the cellar wall, and the supply shaft at the bottom. This arrangement of pipes allows cold fresh air to enter the room through the supply duct, heat up and exit through the exhaust pipe. The distance between the supply and exhaust pipes should not be less than half a meter.
Such air exchange obeys the laws of physics - warm air rises up. The lower the temperature of the incoming air, the faster the ventilation process.
In warm climatic regions, natural ventilation will be difficult.
Materials and tools
Asbestos pipes are the most suitable material for creating natural ventilation.
Such pipes are often used when installing ventilation in the cellar.
There are other popular materials for ventilation shafts - pipes made of PVC and galvanized sheet. All connections and transitions in plastic pipes are made using auxiliary materials: adapters, PVC corners. It's very easy and convenient.
Galvanized pipes are much more difficult to connect. When installing such pipes, there is a high probability of the formation of rusty areas at the joints, therefore, galvanized pipes should be especially carefully treated with anti-corrosion agents.
When preparing for work, you need to stock up on cement or similar material. When drilling a place for pipes, voids are obtained, which, after placing pipes in them, should be filled with a solution.
If a void forms between the pipe and the wall, then it must be cemented.
Fasteners, metal mesh, protective caps for pipes are also useful in the work.
Of the tools you will need:
- a hammer;
- bulgarian;
- drill or hammer drill;
- trowel or spatula.
Schemes and calculation options
The scheme of natural ventilation will help you understand the essence of the operation of this system and determine the location of the pipes.
Based on the diagram, you can get a visual idea of \u200b\u200bthe work of natural aeration
The diameter of the ventilation pipes is an important value, on which the efficiency of the system will largely depend.
1 cm d pipe \u003d 13 cm² section. For 1 m² of cellar, a 26 cm² section is enough.
This means that in order to purchase pipes for a cellar with an area of \u200b\u200bten square meters, the following calculations should be made:
- 10 m² multiplied by 26 cm² \u003d 260 cm²
- The diameter of the pipe section is calculated using the circle formula S \u003d πR²
R² \u003d S: π \u003d 260: 314 \u003d 82.8 When extracting the root we get the value R \u003d about 9 cm
D \u003d 2R The pipe diameter must be 18 cm.
This is a simplified calculation formula for normal air exchange in the cellar, without taking into account the intensity of the exchange of air masses. Construction professionals install ventilation systems using more complex calculations.
Step-by-step instruction
Having determined the required pipe diameter, having prepared the necessary materials and tools, you can proceed to the construction of natural ventilation.
- We place the chimney in the corner of the room. The open end of the pipe should not be too high or too low from the floor. Optimally position the air exhaust pipe at a distance of 140–150 cm from the floor surface. If the cellar is a free-standing room, then the chimney is taken out through the hole made in the ceiling. If it is built under the residential part of the building, then it is advisable to place the exhaust shaft in the place of the general ventilation duct.
For better drawing, it is advisable to place a tip of a larger diameter on the end of the pipe.
- In the opposite corner, we mount the supply pipe, which we place much closer to the floor - 45–55 cm from the surface. The ventilation duct for the supply purpose must pass through the ceilings; it must be raised from the zero level of the floor by 0.8 - 1 m. In the cellar, built autonomously, this pipe is brought out to the roof of the building, but it is installed below the exhaust pipe. If the utility room is located in a residential building, then the opening of the supply pipe is led out into the wall of the building.
When constructing such a pipe, be sure to correctly position it in relation to the lower part of the cellar.
- All holes and voids formed during the installation of pipes are covered with a solution, after it dries, the smeared areas can be painted.
Improvement of aesthetic appearance and ventilation is achieved by getting rid of holes formed during installation
- Dampers are installed inside the pipes. This is done in order to change the clearance with the damper, to influence the intensity of movement of air masses. Outside, visors are mounted on the pipes,
This appearance not only improves the perception of the structure, but also performs a protective function.
closing the holes with a valve from the ingress of precipitation or small animals.
- Pipes are insulated using special materials (mineral wool, ecowool, foamed foam and other suitable materials) in order to reduce the formation of condensation. You can use sandwich pipes \u003d two pipes of different sizes, placed one inside the other. To get rid of the accumulation of condensate inside the pipe, taps for draining water are mounted on the lower part of the outlet channel.
In such pipes, the likelihood of condensation is minimized
Forced ventilation
There are practically no fundamental differences between the natural type of ventilation and forced ventilation. In the forced version of the cellar air exchange, there is an element that forces the air masses to move.
Materials and tools
Most often, a fan acts as an air blower. This device must draw out excess moisture, unpleasant odors that may be present in the cellar with fresh fruits and vegetables.
One or two medium-power fans can easily cope with such tasks, which are installed in the exhaust duct (very rarely in the supply shaft).
Installing such a device will enhance air exchange in the cellar.
One-pipe and two-pipe mounting of fans depends on the area of \u200b\u200bthe cellar. As a rule, the second option is applicable in rooms with large volumes. Fans are built in the exhaust and supply shafts, they can operate in one or different modes.
The owners of the buildings can themselves regulate the parameters of the outflow and inflow of air, with such devices it is easy to control the humidity and temperature conditions in the cellar.
The choice of the fan depends on the consideration of a number of parameters:
- air volume;
- type of output device;
- specifications.
Fan brands from such manufacturers as Electrolux, Vents, Silent, Blauberg, Systemair are very popular among consumers. They perfectly combine low price and good quality. These devices are equipped with check valve functions, they have control units, humidity sensors, time detection relays.
When using the fan, you will need reliable electrical wiring; in this case, compliance with safety rules is mandatory!
In some cases, other devices are used for forced ventilation - deflectors. This option is good because when using deflectors, electricity is not needed.
The deflector is a special device mounted on the chimney instead of a protective cap. The deflector principle uses wind force. A thin air appears inside the duct with a reflector, which improves ventilation.
An electricity supply to improve aeration of such a cellar is optional.
Deflectors are produced by industrial enterprises, but some craftsmen make such devices on their own. The efficiency of the deflector increases significantly if its diameter is twice the diameter of the ventilation pipe.
Necessary calculations
The diameter of the exhaust fan can be determined based on the regulatory documents: SNiP 3.05.01–85 - Act of commissioning and SNiP 32–105–2004 - Act of acceptance for adjustment of ventilation units.
These sources, of course, are used by designers and builders for production purposes. But calculations can be done for small rooms by analogy.
For effective ventilation of a room with a volume of 16 to 32 m³, a fan with d \u003d 10–20 cm is required. The air exchange rate will be 1 cubic meter of air per hour of operation.
Pipe diameters are calculated in the same way as for natural ventilation.
Mounting
A forced-type ventilation structure is a sequence of steps that are taken in the installation of natural air exchange, with the only difference being that fans are placed in one or both pipes or deflectors are attached.
Combined cellar ventilation system
This type of air exchange is suitable for any room with a wide variety of characteristics. A combined ventilation system with the installation of fans in the supply and exhaust ducts is in demand for thorough drying of the utility room.
The system may include the equipment that will provide the most acceptable "climate" in the cellar. These are best handled by an automated climate control system.
This is especially true in wine cellars, which require a certain temperature and humidity for maturation and storage of wine.
In this case, a split system is installed, the installation of which should be entrusted to specialists.
With an increase in humidity in the cellar, you can dry it by resorting to folk methods.
The easiest method is to simply open the sunroof during the summer. But the effectiveness of this method is low. It is best to use tried and true methods using:
- brazier;
- dry alcohol;
- a candle;
- electrical appliances;
- a box of salt, etc.
A regular metal bucket with holes can be used as a brazier. Burning coals or wood, placed in a brazier, on a rope should be lowered into the cellar and kept burning for 10-12 hours. Compliance with safety rules is mandatory!
When using the bucket, be sure to include the holes on the bottom
To create strong traction, holes in the bucket are needed. Hot air will help disinfect and dry the cellar.
An iron can with a lit candle is another option for improving the microclimate in the cellar. A jar with a candle is placed next to the ventilation exhaust pipe, without closing the hatch and the front door. If possible, the exhaust pipe is extended. The flame of an ordinary candle is enough to accelerate the aeration process (air exchange) and eliminate negative aspects in the microclimate of the cellar.
The same applies when using dry alcohol or a gas burner, while not forgetting about maximum safety.
To remove excess moisture from the cellar, you can use a gas burner
An alternative way to dry the cellar is less dangerous, but more costly. We are talking about the use of electrical appliances.
To evenly distribute heat in the room, a heat gun, heater or some other device for heating the room is placed in the center.
A drawer of salt can also be a great way to absorb excess moisture.
You can check the quality of only installed or long-term operation of the ventilation system in the following ways:
- Take a notebook sheet or paper for printing and bring it to the ventilation grill. If the sheet fluctuates slightly, then everything is in order with the hood.
- Place embers in the cellar. With poor air exchange rates, an unpleasant odor and condensation may appear.
By periodically checking the ventilation, you can avoid various negative points in the cellar.
To increase the efficiency of aeration of the cellar, you can "work" with the valves by adjusting the air movement. To improve the extraction, the outlet shaft pipe is lengthened.
To eliminate musty air, a fan (with a power of at least 100 W) is placed in the cellar and the speed of movement of air masses is increased, contributing to better ventilation of the cellar.
Video: the principle and arrangement of the ventilation system
An air ventilation system in the cellar is necessary for the long-term operation of this room. Before self-construction of ventilation, you should study all possible options for aeration and choose an acceptable one. It is advisable to do this at the stage of building design in order to immediately provide for the necessary communications. Having built reliable ventilation in the cellar, you can be sure of the safety of products and the efficient use of this utility room.
To store vegetables in the basement, you need an appropriate microclimate, temperature - 2 ... 5 ° C, humidity - up to 90% (year-round). Exceeding these indicators leads to the formation of mold, rotting of roots and fruits. To remove excess moisture and partially correct the temperature regime, the cellar ventilation is used - natural or forced. How to make ventilation of the underground storage correctly, read on.
Basement air exchange and microclimate
In the basements of private houses, it makes no sense to arrange a forced draft. In most cases, the set tasks can be solved by natural ventilation in the cellar. To organize such air exchange, you need to understand what factors affect the microclimate inside the basement:
- Soil temperature at a depth of 1.5-2 m. Depending on the region, this indicator varies from -3 to +10 degrees (in winter). That is, the cellars of the northern and southern regions must be insulated during the construction phase.
- Cold air is denser and heavier than warm air, therefore it always sinks to the floor of the room. This movement of streams is called convection.
- At the same temperature, more humid air is lighter than dry air and rises upward. This is why condensation drops hang from the ceiling, and the walls near the floor practically do not "sweat".
- The air humidity depends on the proximity of the groundwater and the external waterproofing of the walls. If insulation work was not performed during the construction of the basement or basement, prepare to deal with dampness.
- The temperature of the ventilation air supplied to the cellar from the street.
Reference. The relative mass of air molecules is 29 units, water vapor - only 18. Accordingly, the more moisture 1 cube of air contains, the lighter it is. Example: if you open the door to a cold balcony in winter, condensation will immediately appear on the ceiling (see photo above).
Now, specifically about the ventilation device in the vegetable cellar. To organize the natural circulation of air flows, we use the phenomenon of convection. Action plan:
- Choosing a ventilation scheme. The task is to make the correct exhaust from the upper zone of the basement and it is imperative to ensure the flow of fresh air.
- We calculate the air exchange, determine the diameters of the exhaust and supply pipes.
- We select pipe material, install ventilation ducts.
A cellar under a residential building or garage, built without a project and external waterproofing, can become very damp in winter. Such storage facilities have to be dried in the summer - we will list the methods at the end of the publication.
Cellar ventilation schemes
For ventilation of underground rooms, you can use 1 of 3 schemes:
- classic system with one chimney;
- scheme with two pipes - supply and exhaust;
- forced air exchange.
One-pipe ventilation system - fresh air enters the store through the door The choice of option depends on the design of the basement, its location and other conditions. The 1-duct system shown in the picture is applicable for cellars with a separate exit to the street. How the scheme works during the cold season:
- The temperature underground is always above zero (if the basement is built correctly). The warmer and more humid air rises to the upper zone and goes out through the vertical exhaust duct.
- Cold air masses take its place - seep through the inlets in the door (hatch), then sink to the cellar floor.
- As it warms up + humidifies, the air begins to lose weight, rises and is again thrown out through the pipe.
An important point. With a one-pipe scheme, the ventilation duct should be installed at the maximum distance from the entrance door, at the opposite wall. This ensures a complete renewal of the indoor air environment.
The ventilation scheme of the basement of the summer kitchen with external pipes The ventilation system with two pipes is used in cellars without a separate entrance - under private houses, garages and other outbuildings. The natural circulation of air masses is organized similarly, only the second vertical channel, which descends to the floor itself, serves as an inflow. Cold outside air descends through the supply air duct, replacing the gases leaving the street.
The pipes are located in opposite corners of the storage and are removed in two ways:
- in the ground outside the building;
- right through the roof, as shown in the ventilation diagram for a garage with a cellar and a viewing hole.
In the first case, the head of the supply pipe is at the level of the basement; it is better to raise the exhaust shaft to a height of 2 m (counting from the intake hole in the basement). If the building is surrounded by other buildings and there is nowhere to bring the second channel, the air duct is laid in the second way - to the roof. The end of the exhaust pipe rises above the ridge.
The layout of the ventilation ducts and the movement of air flows in the garage. The overflow pipe cannot be placed between the pit and the cellar Note. Manufacturers of ready-made cellars made of plastic or concrete immediately provide for two-pipe ventilation. Channels exit vertically through the ceiling of the storage, the hatch closes tightly.
Active air exchange with forced induction is organized according to a one-pipe or two-pipe scheme, the fan is placed on the exhaust duct. The ventilation operation can be automated by connecting the blower to the mains through a thermostat. The device with the sensor will turn off the fan when the temperature drops below the set threshold. See the video for details:
How to calculate the diameters of the ducts
In order to equip the ventilation of a home cellar with your own hands, you need to find out the volume of supply air, then determine the cross-section of the ventilation ducts. The amount of inflow is calculated by the weight of the stored vegetables:
- for every 100 kg of potatoes we supply 3.5 m³ of air per 1 hour;
- 100 kg of carrots, onions and other vegetables - 7.5 m³ / h.
Note. If car parts and tires are stored in the basement of the garage, then a single exchange of air within 1 hour is enough for ventilation. That is, the flow rate of the air mixture is equal to the volume of the room.
Knowing the amount of supply and exhaust air, we calculate the pipe section using the formula:
- F is the cross-sectional area of \u200b\u200bthe duct, expressed in m²;
- L - volume of supplied air, m³ / h;
- ʋ - the speed of the flow through the channel, with natural ventilation is taken equal to 1 m / s, no more
- 3600 - conversion factor of time units (seconds / hours).
Calculation example. The cellar contains 400 kg of potatoes, the rest of the vegetables - 200 kg. Then the inflow volume will be 3.5 x 4 + 7.5 x 2 \u003d 29 m³ / h. Determine the cross-section of the pipe: F \u003d 29/3600 x 1 \u003d 0.008 m², through the formula for the area of \u200b\u200ba circle, we calculate the diameter - 0.1 m \u003d 100 mm.
Basement ventilation pipes
When installing ventilation systems in apartments and private houses, galvanized, enameled and plastic PVC channels are used. But the listed options are not suitable for cellars - galvanized air ducts will quickly rust from moisture, and enameled steel and PVC are expensive.
On the left in the photo - the exhaust duct from the internal sewage pipe, on the right - the inflow from the PVC pipeline The supply and exhaust shafts in the basements are made of inexpensive and moisture-resistant materials:
- from sewer pipes for internal wiring - gray polypropylene;
- the same, for the outer gasket - orange polyvinyl chloride;
- asbestos-cement pipelines.
Addition. If the farm has a Ø100-150 mm pipe made of black steel, feel free to use it when arranging the hood / supply. The underground section of the canal should be covered with bituminous mastic, the outer part should be painted 2 times with any permanent paint, for example, PF or NTs.
The most profitable and convenient option for installation is a gray polypropylene sewer pipe for ventilation. The material is cheap, lightweight, resistant to any chemical attack. An additional plus is the presence of ready-made shaped elements connected to straight sections into the socket. The duct is attached to the walls with standard clamps.
Asbestos pipes outperform sewer pipes in price, but lose in ease of installation. The pipelines are quite heavy, there are no shaped parts - the channel turns will have to be made from scrap materials. For a brief overview of the various ventilation ducts, see the video:
- The scheme with one hood is imperfect, since part of the heated humid air is directed to the upper area near the front door. It is necessary to make outlets, otherwise the fumes will condense on the door leaf, flow down and again be carried away into the cellar by the inflow.
- Removing air ducts to the roof is a costly and inconvenient option. We'll have to gouge the ceilings, insulate the roofing, raise the hood head over the ridge. If the basement is already built, it is easier to dig a hole near the outer wall and drill the foundation.
Scheme with laying air ducts through the roof of a summer kitchen Note. A single-pipe fume hood works well in top hatch storage. The heated air masses are collected under a flat horizontal ceiling, then carried away by the draft of the ventilation duct.
We offer some specific tips on how to make ventilation with two pipes:
The difference in height between the tops of the ducts does not play a big role. The cut of the supply channel rises to a minimum height (up to 1 m), the exhaust pipe is removed from the aerodynamic shadow of the building, so that a stable natural draft occurs. If it is impossible to lift the air duct, replace the umbrella with a deflector - rods.
How to dry a damp cellar in summer
With the arrival of warming, climatic conditions change - the street temperature becomes higher, the warm light air does not want to descend into the cellar on its own. Accordingly, cold air masses do not leave the room, the natural ventilation of the basement does not work, and moisture is not removed.
How can you dry the cellar:
- Make the air mass move forcibly. Connect a small axial fan to the exhaust duct through a flexible corrugated pipe.
- Option for a cellar with a separate entrance: open the door wide, install a large household fan inside and direct the flow towards the doorway (hatch).
Council. To prevent fungus from appearing on concrete walls, after drying, treat the surfaces with a solution of slaked lime or other antiseptic.
For summer ventilation of the cellar, the owners often use the folk method - they simply open all the hatches and doors to the basement. The method is ineffective, because the heavy cold air does not tend to go outside. This will take 1-2 weeks depending on the humidity inside the room.
Since ancient times, back then in Russia, it was customary to stock up on food for the winter. Then there were no giants of the food industry, and if people went to the bazaar, they found there exclusively goods from the neighboring cellar. People built dugouts, dug basements without any engineering networks and waterproofing. As a result, the premises were heated with water, food disappeared. About devices such as cellar ventilationand waterproofing the premises were out of the question. The people were not yet so educated and developed.
Things are different now. Knowledge in the design and construction of basements allows you to create the best food storage facilities. When calculating and designing ventilation devices in the cellar standardized rules and regulations apply. They allow you to competently and intelligently organize the basement from the inside, provide an ideal microclimate for storing vegetables and keep the harvest until next year.
Cellar ventilation: basic requirements
By its purpose ventilation device for cellars and basementsis designed to provide moderate and stable indicators of humidity and air temperature. In addition to ventilation, these indicators are influenced by several other factors.
Therefore, immediately before construction, it is necessary to understand and provide for all possible factors that, during the operation of the premises, can affect the basement climate.
Only taking into account all the factors that can affect the functioning of the cellar will help to achieve a certain climate. If something is missing, then you should not scold the ventilation or pin excessive hopes on it. Undoubtedly, she is able to maintain the desired microclimate, but she cannot eliminate the wetting of the wall.
If the basement has a favorable location, good hydro and thermal insulation, then you can proceed to the design and ventilation device.
As with most general residential and industrial premises, basement ventilationhas a source of air inflow from the environment and a device for the outflow of humid, contaminated carbon dioxide masses.
Basement ventilation systems
The most common version of the basement arrangement involves the location of the cellar under the main rooms of a private house. In this case, two variants of the hood device are used:
- two-channel;
- single-channel.
The first one is used most often. It has a number of advantages in terms of servicing a cellar with a larger area.
Two-channel ventilation device
The ventilation technology at two points of inflow and outflow has no difficulties in installing air ducts.
Basement ventilation with the ideal development of the building process of the house should be calculated at the stage of the beginning of construction. So you will get by with less financial and labor costs.
Air supply pipe.
The inflow device ensures the flow of air masses from the environment by means of air intake through the inlet (air). The air is most often located at the side wall of the main building - the elevation above the level of the house blind area should be 20-30 cm.
The very hole in the pipe is covered with a ventilation grill. The grill can be equipped if necessary. The air duct is laid through the base of the house, the basement ceiling and introduced into the basement. Outlet ventilation stretched almost to the floor cellars, retreating 15-20 cm. Thanks to this arrangement of the ventilation duct, cool air from the street enters the duct, passes through it and enters the basement near the floor. After this, it gradually heats up and displaces the upper layers of warm and humidified air from the basement through the exhaust pipe. 
Outflow system for contaminated masses.
It is located in the opposite corner of the cellar room, diagonally relative to the supply pipe. The main principle is the need to capture heated air. This is achieved by placing the entrance of the pipe under the very ceiling of the basement (10-15 cm from it). Then the exhaust duct passes through the ceiling of the main building, through the attic to the roof.
Depending on the shape of the roof and on the prevailing wind rose, it is necessary to achieve conditions under which the wind will be directed to the previously set one. The deflector is needed in any case, as it protects the pipe from atmospheric precipitation. It also creates additional negative pressure under the cover, due to which the air flow in the pipe is enhanced.
The longer the exhaust air duct, the stronger the blown air flow in it.
The exhaust duct should be equipped in several layers to create the necessary insulation. To do this, at the planning stage of premises and utility networks at home:
- mount a brick or wooden pipe well cellar ventilation;
- choose a place for laying insulation between the well and the pipe;
- wrap the pipe itself with a special insulation that will not absorb moisture.
It is necessary to insulate the exhaust air duct in order not to obtain air condensation due to sudden cooling in the cold period.
Regarding the last two points, it is worth noting that only double thermal insulation can provide resistance to freezing of the air duct. If the region where the house and the basement are located suggests abnormally low temperatures, it is additionally necessary to make an air gap between the main insulation and the insulation on the pipe itself. Such a solution will significantly reduce the thermal conductivity of the channel as a whole.
Single-channel ventilation
In rare cases, when the cellar area is less than 5 square meters, it is possible to combine the oxygen inflow and outflow channels in one pipe. This is the basic principle of operation of this system and the main difference from the two-channel arrangement. The pipe is divided by a partition, through which two circulation channels are obtained: one for the inflow, the second for the exhaust.
Natural or forced draft?
To deal with this issue, you need to conduct an experiment with an already existing natural ventilation in the cellar under the house.To do this, you need to bring a thin sheet of paper to the outlets of the channel in the basement and determine, by the waving of the sheet, the presence of air movement.
This experiment is suitable for basements up to 10 square meters. If the basement is over 10 square meters, then, even if there is oxygen movement inside the room, the effectiveness of the natural exhaust can be questioned.
For a relatively large room, a hygrometer should be purchased. This device measures air humidity. A thermometer is mandatory for any basement size.
To determine the degree of ventilation, it is necessary to install a device that measures air humidity. It should be installed approximately 1.5 meters above the floor.
This is important, since the humidity will be the highest near the ceiling. But vegetables are mostly stored on the floor. Therefore, it is necessary to measure the average value of the room humidity.
At high rates of the hygrometer (over 85-90%), it is necessary to arrange a forced ventilation schemes in the cellar. 
Forced (mechanical) exhaust system
Remake do it yourself ventilation in the cellarwill not be difficult. To do this, you need to install axial fans inside the ducts. This will increase circulation. For the supply duct, the fan is placed at the entrance on a protective grid. Accordingly, the exhaust duct is supplied with a fan directly at the entrance to the basement.
The rules for storing food in the autumn-winter period differ from the peculiarities of their preservation in summer. Extension of the shelf life of fresh vegetables and conservation is possible due to special premises of the basement and semi-basement type with a controlled microclimate. The main condition for their storage is full air circulation and control over the humidity level. Cellar ventilation with one and two pipes makes it possible to achieve optimal environmental parameters and ensure the safety of all products until the next season.
Consequences of poor ventilation
The principle of operation and purpose of the system
The organization of the microclimate is a difficult task, for the achievement of which a whole range of tools, materials and techniques are used. One of the stages of designing a cellar is the selection and installation of a ventilation system. Lack of air circulation is considered a serious problem that can negate all efforts to harvest and harvest crops for the winter. In a room with not fully functioning or completely absent ventilation, the following phenomena develop:
- stagnant air;
- increased humidity;
- an increase in indoor temperature;
- acceleration of decay processes;
- the appearance of condensation;
- the development of molds;
- activation of corrosion processes.
As a result of the action of such factors, food and all other attributes in the room suffer. Shelves quickly rust, shelves rot and collapse, lids oxidize, vegetables and fruits rot, and the air becomes unfit for breathing. Active ventilation guarantees the storage of products, an increase in the service life of shelves and all related equipment.
There are several ways to achieve full circulation of air masses inside the cellar. However, the most effective among them is the design of a natural supply and exhaust system with two pipes. Its principle of operation is due to the temperature difference between the environment and the cellar. From the school physics course, it follows that the heated air evaporates, rising to the ceiling. In this case, its place is taken by cooled masses, providing the necessary circulation of flows. It is possible to achieve a similar effect indoors by using a simple system consisting of two pipes.
Supply and exhaust ventilation scheme Ventilation system diagram and its features
Arrangement of natural aeration is possible only in small areas without partitions and large-sized racks. The presence of obstructions reduces the circulation rate, making ventilation less efficient. The same rule applies to the area of \u200b\u200bthe room, since the larger it is, the more difficult it is for the air flow to move through it. Therefore, to organize full ventilation in such buildings, forced-type systems based on the action of electrical energy are used.
Air flow pattern - The creation of a working model of ventilation of a natural type room is carried out according to clearly established rules regulated by SNiP. The inflow of fresh air and the removal of waste air is carried out using 2 channels. The supply air duct is led out 10-15 cm above the floor level, and the second one under the very ceiling, retreating from it by 5-10 cm. Such an arrangement of pipes ensures the outflow of waste masses, and allows fresh air to enter the room without hindrance.
- From the outside, the supply air duct is mounted above the ground 30-40 cm above its level. The chimney is installed 25 cm or more above the inlet pipe. A similar arrangement makes it possible to achieve the required pressure difference and provide full aeration inside the cellar.
- Important! The higher the outlet pipe is installed, the greater the pressure difference inside the room. Consequently, air masses will begin to replace each other more often, removing excess moisture and preventing the spread of mold.
Natural ventilation in the cellar Equipment and materials
A natural supply and exhaust system is simple in its design compared to forced-type structures. The main part is considered to be the duct, and the remaining parts are classified as auxiliary devices. In addition to pipes, to create full natural aeration, you need:
- pipe connectors;
- fasteners;
- protective nets;
- deflectors or umbrellas.
Deflector No other devices, fixtures or parts are included in the design of the supply and exhaust aeration models. Thanks to this, the cost of their construction is reduced, and the effectiveness (subject to compliance with the requirements) increases.
The only criterion that directly affects the cost of the project is the pipe material. In the role of air ducts, their following types are used:
- plastic;
- asbestos-cement;
- galvanized.
Each of these materials has features, characteristics and positive qualities. In this case, the choice of a specific type of product is carried out not from economic indicators, but solely on the basis of technical features and conditions for the functioning of the future model.
Galvanized pipes Pros and cons of ventilation pipes
Plastic pipes are considered the most popular material for natural aeration structures. Their main advantage is their relatively low cost, which reduces overall project costs. In addition, the positive aspects of plastic include low weight, high plasticity, flexibility and resistance to temperature extremes. However, with obvious advantages, they also have obvious disadvantages associated with low strength and instability to mechanical stress.
Asbestos-cement pipes are considered equally popular among builders. Their strength is superior to plastic products, which expands the scope of the material. In addition, its cost is also quite economical, which makes it possible to obtain an efficient model for relatively little money. However, this is where the advantages of asbestos cement end. Its negative sides include weight and bulkiness, the absence of adapters, the need for additional reinforcement of fasteners and sealing of joints.
Galvanizing is the most popular material for the construction of ventilation systems from two pipes. The material is not subject to corrosion, is durable, accessible, does not deform, is resistant to thermal effects and has an extensive range of products. Highways of various shapes, lengths and directions are created from galvanized metal, without worrying about their tightness and functionality. A relative lack of material is considered to be a cost that exceeds other products, affecting the economy of the project.
Calculation of the diameter of the ducts
Calculation of the diameter of the pipe for ventilation of the cellar is a difficult task, on which the functionality of ventilation depends. Too small cross-section of pipes does not allow air to fully circulate, and exceeding the size leads to the lack of the required pressure drop. To determine the size of the supply and output channels, you need to know the following parameters:
- room area;
- wind load in a specific climatic zone;
- location on the ground;
- temperature features of the region.
Based on these criteria, it will not be difficult to make ventilation. According to the technical documentation for utility rooms (cellars and basements), the norm is the circulation of air masses in the amount of 120 cubic meters per hour. As a rule, to obtain a full-fledged air exchange in a room with an area of \u200b\u200bup to 25 square meters, installing pipes with a diameter of 100 mm is enough.
To improve natural circulation, special deflectors are used, which are installed at the outlet of the exhaust ducts. Thanks to structural details, these devices increase the speed of air movement, contributing to indoor renewal.
Installation steps
Installation of a ventilation system from the design stage of the future structure. This part plays an important role, since it makes it possible to assess the scale and focus of the work, as well as determine the amount of material required. To assess the complexity of the project, a simple diagram drawn with an ordinary pencil on a sheet of paper is suitable. Having estimated and purchased all the parts, we proceed to the direct installation of ventilation from 2 pipes with our own hands, which consists of the following steps:
- collection and preparation of inventory;
- the formation of holes for laying air ducts;
- routing and fixing of pipes;
- sealing of connections;
- installation of protective umbrellas.
When erecting a structure, it is better to do without joints and turns, a bend or a fragile joint affects the pressure inside the channels. As a result, there is a decrease in the level of circulation of air masses, which leads to a decrease in the performance of the model. Another condition for the effective operation of the system is the tightness of the room. In addition to the supply and exhaust pipes, there should be no other sources of air in the cellar. Additional holes, slots and holes also affect the movement of masses within the room, reducing the rate of circulation.
Supply channel Cellar ventilation with one pipe: differences and features
The ventilation principle of the cellar with one pipe is based on the same principle as the previous design. The role of the outlet channel is played by the entrance door and natural cracks in the room. In this case, the supply pipe is installed according to the general principle, i.e. 10-15 cm above the floor level. Thanks to this, fresh air enters the cellar, ensuring normal circulation. The only drawback of this design is considered to be installation exclusively in a small area of \u200b\u200bup to 12-15 sq. Exceeding these values \u200b\u200bdoes not allow for effective aeration.
Important! The design features of the premises also play a significant role. The presence of high racks, curves, uneven walls, ceiling and floor inevitably affects the movement of air. As a result, the natural ventilation system becomes less efficient even if the area is within acceptable values. For a full-fledged air exchange in such cellars, it is necessary to build a project with 2 pipes.
Cellar ventilation with one pipe Adjusting the system in winter
The penetration of frosty air into the cellar leads to a decrease in temperature below 0 degrees. Similar values \u200b\u200bhave a negative effect on the preservation of fresh food and preservation. Maintaining the optimum temperature + 2 + 6 degrees and preventing its decrease is an important task that can be solved with the help of ventilation. However, if the cellar freezes over due to insufficient thermal insulation, it will not be possible to solve the problem by limiting the incoming air. It is possible to increase the temperature inside the cellar by reducing the intensity of circulation. To do this, special plugs are installed at the inlet, allowing you to regulate the flow of incoming air or completely limit them.
Proper ventilation of the cellar, like other rooms, is based on the invariable laws of physics. The air exchange scheme is simple, and you can do it yourself without the help of specialists.
For high-quality air circulation in the cellar, two ventilation holes are required. One of them is supply air, that is, through it, clean air penetrates inside. The second is exhaust. Through it, all waste gases and vapors are discharged to the outside. For the exhaust system to work fully, ducts must be connected to the holes. Pipes are more commonly used. It is important that their diameter meets the standards.
The ventilation system in the cellar will work efficiently only if the level of the exhaust holes is correctly located. Depending on the location of the cellar itself, exhaust pipes can be mounted in different ways. Sometimes they are taken out through the ceiling of the house, or they can be built into the basement wall. It is important to consider these points when drawing up a ventilation scheme for the cellar.
The temperature in the basement will depend on the height at which the openings for the intake of clean air will be located, especially in the winter season. Both the height of their placement and the diameter of the holes should be optimal.
The principle of the system is based on the basic laws of physics. Having carefully looked at the ventilation scheme in the cellar, one can state the fact that it is arranged extremely simply, but at the same time it is reliable.
To organize a full-fledged system, it is enough to provide 2 ventilation holes for the basement. One of them is necessary to remove excess vapors and air from the room, and the second - to ensure the flow of clean and fresh oxygen. For optimal efficiency, such a system requires two pipes, supply and exhaust.
Ventilation in the cellar under the house
An equally important stage is the installation of pipes at an optimal height from the floor and their subsequent output to the external space. Incorrectly placed air ducts can supply too much air, which is highly undesirable for fresh food and vegetables stored on the shelves. Too small a diameter of pipes will not allow to quickly remove musty air masses from the room.
Before you make ventilation in the cellar, you need to decide on the type of system that will be equipped in the room. It can be either forced or natural. The choice in favor of this or that option is determined by the peculiarities of the basement layout, its total area.
Situations often arise when the natural ventilation system of the cellars is not enough. In cases where the area of \u200b\u200bfood storage facilities is significant, and the height exceeds 2 m, experts recommend equipping a forced air exhaust and air exchange system. Such a system is a complex engineering task, which is difficult to cope with without the involvement of experienced professionals. Structural specificity lies in the fact that the supply and exhaust pipes are supplemented with the following elements:
- duct heaters;
- filter cassette;
- duct fan for cooling;
- check valve;
- a sound muffler.
Forced ventilation device The lathing and installation of blinds are used as a functional and decorative element. A powerful duct fan is the main element of a forced ventilation system for cellars. Efficiency and service life are directly proportional to the selected power, technical features and air direction.
Ventilation duct Choosing the best option for a forced ventilation system, you need to know that this type of equipment is offered to the consumer in three different versions:
- exhaust design - specializes in removing air from various rooms;
- supply system - provides an inflow of purified, heated or fresh air;
- supply and exhaust ventilation system for the cellar - combination of ventilation functions of the first and second types.
Supply ventilation system According to the principle of control, forced systems are divided into two types:
- Automatic.
- Mechanical.
Automatic forced ventilation This effect of convenient automation lies in the correct placement of the sensors. They react to changes in basic parameters, turning on and off duct fans or heaters, thereby creating an optimal microclimate.
Exhaust forced ventilation with humidity sensor As for the mechanical forced ventilation systems of the cellars, a person controls the temperature regime and the degree of humidity. All essential control functions of the system are performed mechanically. General recommendations for the arrangement are as follows:
- Give preference only to high-quality and proven equipment so that the functioning of the system is durable and trouble-free.
- In the process of arranging a simple forced ventilation circuit, you should carefully consider the location of each element.
- Weigh all the pros and cons when choosing automation or mechanical control.
Supply and exhaust ventilation with heat recovery The question arises: how to choose the correct forced ventilation system? First of all, you should carefully study the architectural features of the building, evaluate the dimensions of the room, and determine the degree of optimal functionality of the system. If you are not fully confident in your abilities, you can resort to the help of specialists at any stage.
The cellar is an irreplaceable structure in the household. The project for arranging the ventilation of the cellar is best implemented directly at the construction stage. But it is also quite possible to create an effective ventilation system after construction is completed. In the future, it is important to monitor the state of the air in such a room so that the conditions for storing food and preservation are comfortable all year round.
How to make the ventilation of the cellar yourself
The ventilation device in the cellar is quite simple to perform independently, this can be done not only at the planning stage of the room, but also in the already prepared cellar. The ventilation scheme of the cellar is quite simple, its operation is based on the simplest physical laws.
A cellar without ventilation cannot function normally. In order for the warehouse to become complete, a number of requirements must be met:
- it should be dark in the basement;
- compliance with the optimal temperature regime;
- the degree of air humidity must be maintained at a certain level;
- ventilation system.
Without air circulation, food will quickly deteriorate and rot. Proper ventilation of the cellar allows you to maintain optimal conditions for maintaining the maximum useful qualities in vegetables.
Due to violations in construction technology, it is impossible to store crops and conservation in basements. If the basement is part of a private house, ventilation devices are mounted in the basement of the foundation, leaving vents above the basement, waterproofing work is an important point.
For ventilation of cellars, the supply and exhaust version of the natural system for regulating air exchange is the most reliable and budgetary option. The disadvantage of this method is the direct connection between the operation of the system and the temperature difference outside and the strength of the wind.
For large rooms, a forced system is used. The use of such a scheme is especially important if in the future the cellar will be used as a living room, or if it is supposed to be converted into a gym or billiard room. The natural ventilation system in the cellar cannot provide sufficient air exchange in hot, windless weather.
If you plan to convert the basement into a gym, you should equip a forced ventilation system
When using this method, it should be remembered that the premises of the basements are quite damp, therefore, to store food in the cellar in the country, you need to connect devices with a minimum power, otherwise you may face the problem of current leakage through the body of the electrical device.
There are two techniques for forced ventilation in a wine cellar. The second involves the use of deflectors instead of electric fans. The deflector is mounted on the inlet of the hood, which is located above the roof level.
This device redirects the wind force and dilutes the air inside the pipeline. Instead of a deflector, mini turbines are used. When installing a forced system, a natural one must also be provided.
Today, there are two most common systems: natural and forced ventilation. Both systems are popular, but before making a ventilation system, some calculation must be made.
In this example, a ventilation duct made from a conventional polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe will be taken as a basis.
- In the case when the total area of \u200b\u200bthe cellar is 10 square meters, then we need an air duct area equal to the product of 10 by 25 square meters. cm. It turns out 250 cm. square.
- Next, we take the formula for the area of \u200b\u200ba circle (our air duct is round) S \u003d πR², according to which we calculate the required radius of the ventilation pipe, which in our case will be 8.9 cm. Accordingly, the pipe diameter should be 17.8 cm.
How does the ventilation system work?
The above calculation is very simplified, since it does not take into account the rate of air exchange in the room.
Experts often recommend calculating the cross-section of the ventilation duct in the basement, taking into account the air flow. Interestingly, there is also a formula for calculating the air flow rate: L \u003d V * K, where L is, in fact, the air flow rate we need, V is the total volume of the basement, and K is a value indicating how many times in hour the air in the room changes.
How to properly ventilate the cellar? The easiest way is natural ventilation, which involves ventilating the room through vents. The disadvantage of this method is that it is only suitable for a cellar with small dimensions, a maximum of 5 squares.