What are window filters needed for?

Modern windows have several advantages. They are characterized by improved heat and sound insulation qualities. However, due to their tightness, users often complain about dry, stale air and the appearance of condensation on glass. Correct the situation allows the use of window filters.

The window filter is a plastic device that is installed on the frame and provides micro-ventilation of the room. Another name - ventilating window valve. It is suitable for all types of windows (plastic, wood, metal profile). The task of the filter is to provide air exchange in the room.

Its efficiency (efficiency) is largely dependent on the type of device, installation features and weather conditions.The reviews allow us to conclude that, in practice, the best efficiency indicators are found in the cool season, when it is windy. This fact is another argument in favor of installing window filters.

With the onset of the heating season, the air in the room becomes excessively dry, of little use to humans. Working batteries heat the window surface, while on the outside the temperatures are much lower. This leads to misting of windows, condensation, and freezing. Open the window or window in this weather once again do not want.

Cold air quickly penetrates the room, but does not bring a noticeable change in the microclimate for the better. It is the filters that will ensure proper air exchange, but they will not cause a decrease in the temperature in the room. Structurally, such a product consists of a box with perforations and a lid that closes or opens the valve box. The latter is driven by the engine or lace (by the type of those that are equipped with blinds).

By moving the valve cover to the left, the filter is activated, and to the right, air intake is stopped.There are automatic valves. They imply the presence of sensors for humidity and air temperature.

Window filters have the following obvious advantages:

• the possibility of organizing room ventilation, which helps to optimize the microclimate and eliminate the problem of window fogging;
• the ability to ventilate the premises without resorting to opening windows (ensuring the safety of the household, reducing the risk of entry into the house through the windows, avoiding the appearance of drafts);
• lack of dust, noise, insects in the room;
• preservation of temperature indicators indoors;
• ease of installation and maintenance;
• the ability to automatically control some models;
• affordability.

Among the drawbacks of the device include:

• violation of the tightness of the glass when improper installation;
• lack of positive effect in case of improper operation;
• clogging the holes with dust.

Depending on the installation site, there are several types of filters.

• Installed in the slot between the window opening and sash. When installing such a valve, it is possible to avoid exposure to internal profile amplifiers, which ensures their integrity, strength, and preservation of the original characteristics.
• Mounted on the window sash. Externally, they are a compact box, equipped with a damper, having a noise absorbing material inside. Mounted such an option in the space between the end of the glass and the window profile.
• Installed over the window into the space of the assembly seam. They are mounted simultaneously with the installation of glass.
• Attached to the profile frame. The most simple, and therefore common and popular option.

Among the owners of modern plastic windows, it is sometimes believed that the ventilation valves on the windows are an unnecessary device. With function of airing successfully cope:

• air vents;
• installation of a shutter in the mode of slit airing;
• use comb

In fact, the idea of ​​the need for window ventilation is not new, it was already mentioned in the middle of the 19th century. In the Soviet years, when apartments were distributed free of charge in turn, and houses were built in accordance with GOST, the installation of additional devices on the windows for ventilation was mandatory.These facts allow us to conclude that the need for window ventilation is not a marketing move, but a necessity justified by engineering science. Window filters can not replace the vents or airing with the use of limiters valves.

They are an alternative method, allowing you to provide fresh air with the window closed. Short-term ventilation by opening the vents is inconvenient because the room is rapidly cooled and heated again when closed. Opening and closing the window is easy to catch a cold. At the same time the air in the room will remain heavy and dry.

Slot ventilation, including using a comb, in some way solves this problem. However, an open window becomes a source of noise, street dust, a danger to children and pets, and may cause the sash to sag. All these inconveniences are avoided by the installation of a filter for air circulation. To prevent such a situation allows the installation of the device in the right place.

The valve should be located at the top of the window.Then even on a cold windy day, the air blown from the street heats up from the ceiling and then drops below. This movement of air (up) is due to the low rate of its penetration into the air, which is achieved due to the small size of the valve holes. If the air will flow even from the top, but through a large hole, it will not have time to warm up above. This is what happens when opening the vents. Another thing - it enters through the small holes in the filter.

Achieving the correct and durable functioning of window filters will allow following several recommendations.

• It should not be in the cold season (during the heating period especially) completely shut off the valve. This will lead to a significant temperature difference between the outside and inside of the valve, which may cause it to freeze.
• The air exchange provided by the valve will not be noticeable and effective in the absence of a working exhaust system.
• Proper installation and timely replacement of components (on average every six months) is a guarantee of high-quality ventilation.

How to install window filters, see the following video.