Ventilation Testing
Building Regulations
Part F building regs govern the ventilations requirements and as per these regulations it is a requirement to test ventilation systems in new build properties. Part F volume 1 applies to dwellings, while volume 2 applies to all buildings other than dwellings.
Under Part F ventilation systems are divided into separate categories labelled as Systems:
- System 1 – Intermittent extract fans with background ventilators
- System 2 – Passive stack ventilation
- System 3 – Mechanical Extract Ventilation
- System 4 – Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR)
Each system has its own benefits depending on build type of your property and occupant requirements.
How we help
We provide coverage all over the UK and our expert testers use UKAS calibrated equipment as is defined by Part F regulations.
Ventilation testing can usually be coupled with airtightness testing, which would also warrant a discounted price on both services.
To demonstrate that the fans are functioning as intended, we must demonstrate the installed fan’s performance. The performance figures for extractor fans will show airflow in liters per second and are used to remove humidity from the air. A typical bathroom fan, for example, would extract 15 liters per second. Many extractor fans fail to perform to their airflow ratings in the real world because of inadequate ductwork design or installation.
The Balometer is a specialist piece of equipment used by Part F testers to test every extract vent in a property. It is a quick process, with the rate of extraction being calculated in a matter of seconds.
We test ventilation systems in all new build developments because it is a legal requirement, and we are responsible for ensuring the ventilation system in a building is functioning correctly and efficiently. The testing is usually requested by building control bodies. As part of the testing process, we must identify whether the extract fans are performing properly and preventing excessive humidity. Extract fans will come with performance figures showing airflow in liters per second. However, in reality, once installed most fans do not perform to their rating.
All mechanical ventilation fans should be tested for airflow rate. Any of the following may fall under this category:
Intermittent extract fans.
Cooker hoods.
Continuous extract fans or terminals.
Continuous supply of fans or terminals.
A calibrated air flow device with a proprietary hood should be used to measure the airflow rates at each room terminal, as described below:
- The design air flow rates should be determined in accordance with the table given above.
- The given below factors should be confirmed:All intended background ventilators or other air transfer devices are open, and all exhaust fans are operating as intended.There are no open doors or windows inside or outside.
- A device that complies with all the following should be used for airflow measurements:There is a proprietary hood attachment on it.It has an accuracy of ±5%.It has been calibrated within the last 12 months at a calibration center accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS).
- In the commissioning sheet, all extract/supply fans or terminals should be measured in liters per second (l/s).