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Windows and Passive Ventilation: What You Need to Know

With more and more people becoming interested in reducing their carbon footprint and being kinder to the environment, passive ventilation has become sort of a hot topic for homeowners and home remodeling contractors alike. But what is passive ventilation exactly, and how does it work? Here, we share all the basics that you need to know.

What Is Passive Ventilation and How Does It Work?

Simply put, passive ventilation is the promotion of air movement within your space using naturally occurring thermal convection currents. It uses windows, vents, louvres and other openings to circulate fresh air in your home while letting stale air out – all without the help of any mechanical or electronic device.

If cooling is required, a contractor may install windows or other openings on the upper levels of your home so you can open it during the hot summer months to let hot air escape. In winter, a properly designed passive ventilation system can promote good air circulation without creating drafts or letting too much heated air escape.

Passive ventilation works best in open layouts or if the air has clear, uninterrupted pathways to flow. It may seem complicated and technical, but really all you need is some well-placed windows throughout your home to take advantage of microclimate breezes.

If you are looking to reduce your energy costs without sacrificing comfort, then speak to your contractor about passive ventilation, and maybe all you’ll need is to pop open a few windows and doors to keep your space at an ideal temperature.

If you are interested in remodeling your home to aid in passive ventilation, then be sure to give Renewal by Andersen® of St. Louis a call at (314) 332-2364, or fill out our contact form for a free in-home estimate in the St. Louis, MO, area.

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"The installation crew was very professional and answered what questions I had. And they cleaned up when they were finished. We're very pleased with our windows & patio doors. Highly recommend Renewl by Anderson."

Pamela D
Feb 13, 2023

"Very pleased with installation of six windows and a ProVia entry door. I love the look of the windows and door. I am pleased that my wife is thrilled with the look of the door. She is very pleased that the bronze color fits in well with the color of the brick."

Terry S
Feb 8, 2023

"I just had my Renewal by Andersen windows installed and couldn’t be happier, the entire process went very smoothly. The windows are high quality and look great. But the installers Roy, Zack and Jordan were the stars, they introduced themselves upon arrival walked me thru everything they were going to do and when they finished took me to each window to make sure I was completely satisfied. They were clean and courteous and I would definitely recommend and have them work in my home again."

BOB B
Feb 6, 2023

"Wonderful experience with knowledgeable, competent employees. We had Andersen windows in a previous house & didn’t even consider anything else this time. After replacing our patio door almost two years ago, we replaced all our windows this year. What a difference over builder-grade windows, especially in the really cold temperatures we’ve had this year. Andersen windows may be a little more expensive than other brands, but they are top quality."

Susan S
Jan 31, 2023

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