Ventilative cooling: a smart solution for a comfortable and sustainable indoor climate

Airtight construction and good insulation are two key concepts gaining increasing importance in the construction world these days. This is aimed certainly at reducing unwanted energy losses as much as possible. This also means that the demand for heat is decreasing and that the need to cool down a building is increasing. Especially during the warmer months. Summer comfort is therefore increasingly becoming an essential part of the design requirements of a building.

In an era where durability and comfort go hand in hand, ventilative cooling is a solution that is getting more and more attention. By making good, well thought-out use of natural air flows and strategically placed solar shading, ventilative cooling contributes to a healthier, more comfortable and sustainable indoor climate.

What is ventilative cooling?

Ventilative cooling is a method for passively cooling buildings by using natural ventilation and not energy-consuming installations such as air conditioning. The principle uses the fresh outside air flows to drain the warm indoor air and let cooler air in. It's an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly way of cooling, because it doesn't use electricity.

Solar shading also plays an important role in passive cooling, as it helps reduce the amount of solar heat entering a building. By reducing this amount of solar heat, less energy logically has to be spent on cooling the building.

How does it work?

The concept behind ventilative cooling is simple, but effective. Through strategically placed openings, such as windows and glass replacement vents, cool outside air is brought in and warm air is discharged. These natural air currents ensure a constant renewal of the air in space, which gradually reduces the temperature. 

Benefits of ventilative cooling

Energy efficiency

Ventilative cooling uses considerably less energy than traditional air conditioning systems because it relies mainly on natural air flows and evaporation processes.

Healthier indoor climate

By constantly bringing in fresh outdoor air and removing polluted air, ventilative cooling contributes to a healthier indoor climate. This can reduce the spread of allergens, fungi and other contaminants.

Sustainability

As a result of reduced energy consumption and lower environmental impact, ventilative cooling is a more sustainable choice than conventional cooling systems. It fits perfectly within the framework of Active House concepts, which aim for an optimal balance between energy efficiency, comfort and environmental responsibility.