A visit to the bath is not only a way to get rid of week-long dirt, but also to lose extra pounds or remove toxins from the body. However, a beneficial effect on the body can only be felt with proper ventilation in the bath, which in most cases is far from ideal.
It would seem that in order to preserve heat and increase the rate of warming up the room, it is necessary to close up all the cracks, and lay a seal around the perimeter of the doorway so that the door closes tightly and does not serve as a source of cold air inflow. However, everything is exactly the opposite, since well-planned ventilation contributes to:
- creating a comfortable microclimate by getting rid of excess heat, humidity levels, as well as reducing the concentration of carbon dioxide;
- rapid heating of the room due to the mixing of air masses, which is also accompanied by minimal fuel consumption;
- protection of the interior decoration, as well as the floor of the building, from the appearance of various kinds of mold, fungi, which contribute to the occurrence of an unpleasant odor;
- high-quality ventilation of all rooms of the bath, prolonging the service life.
Thus, ventilation in the bath plays a very important role both for the safety of the bath building over a long operational period, and for health benefits. At the same time, it will not be difficult to choose the required type of ventilation system, since you will have to choose from only 2 typical systems.
Types of ventilation systems, their characteristics
Before you learn how to make ventilation in the bath, you need to familiarize yourself with the main types and types of ventilation systems.
Based on the method of air inflow / outflow, there are 2 types of ventilation systems, each of which has undeniable advantages and disadvantages.
natural ventilation
Air exchange with a natural ventilation system occurs under the influence of natural factors without the use of additional equipment in the form of fans, electric motors.
Among the natural factors of no small importance are:
- Wind pressure. The influx of fresh air into the bath is carried out under the influence of the force of the wind through the cracks in the walls, in the openings of doors or windows on the windward side. In this case, the flow of air is accompanied by the simultaneous displacement of rarefied air masses through the existing slots, which accumulate inside the bath at the top of the opposite wall.
An increase in wind pressure leads to an increase in the mass of rarefied air, thereby improving the ventilation of the bath room.
- Aeration. Cold air entering the heated bath through the slots at a small height from the floor or specially arranged holes gradually displaces hot air masses down, contributing to uniform heating of the room due to the mixing of air layers and the outflow of polluted air from the bath.
The benefits of natural ventilation in the bath are as follows:
- security associated with the lack of devices operating from the network;
- simplicity, since small gaps in the doorway or on the wall are an integral part of a wooden bath;
- low cost, since there is no need to purchase additional materials, as well as pay the costs for the operation of such a system.
Among the shortcomings it is worth highlighting:
- ventilation efficiency is entirely dependent on external natural factors;
- inability to adjust the degree of ventilation.
Thus, natural ventilation in a wooden bath for one family is quite enough, since the tree itself is a breathable material, and cracks in the wooden structure during the drying process still take place. At the same time, for full ventilation in a brick bath, it is better to dwell on an artificial system, since the formation of gaps when using such a building material is quite rare.
mechanical ventilation
Air exchange in the bath takes place regardless of the influence of external factors of nature using various kinds of fans, pumps and other equipment that promotes renewal and faster heating of the air.
Advantages of artificial ventilation:
- maintaining the microclimate in the bath at a given level;
- the possibility of filtering the incoming air;
- adjustment of the uniform distribution of heated air masses inside the room.
Flaws:
- higher cost relative to natural ventilation;
- the complexity of installation;
- noise during operation;
- energy costs for appliances.
The forced ventilation system in the bath, based on its inherent task, involves the use of such types of ventilation as:
1. Supply - provides access to the premises of the required volume of clean air. A typical mechanical ventilation system includes an air duct, an air intake grille, a filter, and an air valve. However, the greatest effect from the construction of forced ventilation in the bath is achieved by installing an electric fan.
2. Exhaust - contributes to the removal of exhaust air from the bath room through a system consisting of an air duct, a grate, an electric motor, and a fan.
3. Supply and exhaust - a combination of the functions of the supply and exhaust systems. In this case, the distribution of air masses inside the bath occurs by:
- displacement of hot air outside the premises as a result of the gradual rise of air masses newly entering through the supply ventilation;
- mixing of hot and cold air due to the constant influx of fresh air.
Regardless of the type of ventilation, the cross section of the ventilation hole should be 24 cm per 1 m³.
Thus, forced ventilation is several times higher than the natural ventilation system. Based on this, an artificial ventilation system is the most optimal solution for arranging the ventilation of a frame bath. At the same time, one should not forget that the supply and exhaust openings have a strictly ordered arrangement relative to each other, and not chaotic.
Vent placement options
The intensity of air exchange inside the bath room largely depends on the correct distribution of ventilation openings in relation to one another. Despite the variety of options for alternative arrangement of holes for air inflow / outflow, the following bath ventilation schemes have gained the most popularity:
- The air flow is carried out behind the heater through an opening located at a distance of 30-40 cm from the floor level. At the same time, the exhaust opening has a similar height, but is located on the opposite wall from the air inlet and is equipped with a fan. The cold air entering the room hits the wall of the heater and rushes up, gradually warming up in the process of lifting. At the same time, the exhaust air begins to move downwards and, under the action of the fan, is discharged outside. Such mixing of air masses leads to uniform heating of the air.
- The principle of air movement in the bath is similar to the first option, with the only difference being that the height of the inlet is taken about 50 cm from the floor surface, and the exhaust is located at a distance of 10-20 cm from the floor line. In this way, even more intensive air exchange is achieved.
- The supply opening is created at a distance of 30 cm from the finished floor in the wall opposite the stove. At the same time, the functions of the hood are performed by a chimney, along with a furnace blower. However, such a scheme is valid only during the operation of the furnace.
- The distance from the floor to the inlet located in the wall opposite the stove is taken 20-30 cm. In this case, the hood equipped with a fan is located on the same wall at a distance of 20-30 cm from the ceiling. The air that has entered the room hits an obstacle in the form of a furnace and begins to rise, heating up and displacing the polluted air as it rises.
- The air flow occurs at a distance of 20 cm from the floor in the wall behind the stove. The newly arrived air masses rise, gradually warming up, to the ceiling. As it cools, the air descends and leaves through the sex gaps, after which it enters the ventilation pipe, and from there outside the building.
Thus, the exhaust opening can be located below the supply opening only if there is a fan.
Several excellent ventilation schemes in the bath, the video of which is presented below, will help you make the final decision regarding your own design.
Bath ventilation device
Every year the design of the bath becomes more complicated, creating more comfortable conditions for those who like to take a steam bath or just wash in the bath. If earlier the bathhouse included a dressing room and a washing room combined with a steam room, today the bathhouse consists of 3-4 rooms:
- dressing room;
- washing;
- steam room;
- restroom.
Of course, the most important of these are the steam room and the washing room. However, the ventilation system must be arranged not only in these rooms, but also in the dressing room, as well as the rest room, since humidity also spreads to the rooms adjacent to the steam room.
steam room
For ventilation of the steam room of the bath, any of the above schemes is suitable. However, before firing the stove, it is necessary to completely ventilate the steam room by opening the door and all ventilation openings for 5-10 minutes. After the ventilation is completed, the door, as well as the exhaust openings, are closed. When the temperature in the steam room reaches the required limit, you can slowly open the exhaust outlet, adjusting the intensity of air exchange by means of a valve. In this case, the diameter of the exhaust opening cannot be less than the inlet, otherwise a reverse draft will occur, as a result of which the air flow will be reduced. However, it is necessary to ensure that the air flow does not violate the temperature regime inside the steam room.
washing
Along with the steam room, the washing room of the bath is also associated with a large amount of moisture, the timeliness of getting rid of which is very important, since mold and dampness have a detrimental effect on both the human body and the duration of the operation of the building. Due to the fact that a large amount of water accumulates under the floor, an asbestos pipe placed in the corner of the sink can be used for ventilation in the washing bath. In this case, one end of the pipe should be between the finishing and subfloor, and the second is brought out to the roof and equipped with a deflector.
If the stove is located in the washing room, then the blower of the stove, located below the finishing floor, will also play the role of a good hood.
Foundation
When planning a building, you must immediately think about the ventilation of the foundation of the bath, since the laying of ventilation holes occurs at the stage of concrete reinforcement. To create holes for ventilation, asbestos pipes are quite suitable, which are strictly horizontally fixed in the intended places by means of wire and reinforcement rods, after which the pipes are covered with dry sand. At the same time, the distance from the ground level to the pipe should be at least 10-15 cm, so that when the groundwater rises during the off-season, you should not worry about the possibility of flooding. After fixing the pipes, the foundation is poured with concrete. In this case, the sand is removed only after the concrete has completely hardened. For normal ventilation of the foundation, 2-4 holes with a diameter of 10 cm are sufficient, located in opposite places to each other. To protect against insects, the openings are protected by installing mesh grilles on the ventilation openings.
dressing room
An integral part of any bath is the dressing room, where a mini-dressing room is arranged. In addition, a stove is often placed in the dressing room. In most cases, this is due to the small area of the steam room or in order to prevent the accumulation of debris directly in the steam room. At the same time, the stove copes remarkably well with the functions of ventilation in the dressing room of the bath, because it is necessary to get rid of the condensate that appears as a result of opening the steam room door.
If there is no stove in the dressing room, then after the bath procedures, you can simply open the window or the door to the street and ventilate the room well.
An alternative ventilation option is to install an exhaust vent equipped with a fan at the top of the wall bordering the street.
Based on the specific situation, one of several options for ventilating the room is used. However, it is necessary to think through all the details of arranging the dressing room during the planning period.
Thus, it is not so difficult to build ventilation in the bath with your own hands. The main thing is to carefully approach the planning process and choose the right type of ventilation system, which largely depends on the structural features of the structure and the location of the bath.
In order for bath procedures to bring only benefit and pleasure, two conditions are necessary:
- high level of temperature and humidity in the steam room;
- the presence of a sufficient amount of oxygen.
These seemingly mutually exclusive tasks are solved by ventilation in the bathhouse in general and in the steam room in particular. Despite the fact that high humidity and temperature should be maintained in the steam room of the Russian bath, one cannot do without access to fresh (cold) air: oxygen is processed by our lungs, partially burned out by the stove, and carbon monoxide (CO is the chemical formula carbon monoxide).
How to make ventilation in the bath. In the figure, red arrows show the movement of hot air, blue - cold
If you do not organize the replacement of “exhausted” air with fresh air, instead of improving health and increasing efficiency (this is what we go to the bath for), you can get lethargy, weakness and headache at best, and at worst - a hospital bed or even a place in the cemetery.
Properly arranged ventilation provides air circulation, while oxygen enters in sufficient quantities, and carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide are released into the atmosphere. After the end of the bath procedures, with good ventilation, the steam is actively removed outside the building, and the rooms in which there was previously high humidity dry out. If this aspect was not given sufficient attention, after a couple of years in the steam room, and then in other rooms, the lining rots, the smell of mustiness and sweat appears and gradually increases, and the wood turns into dust. Now, I hope, it is clear whether ventilation is needed in the bath ...
Heating and ventilation of the bath. Please note that the exhaust hole is located at a low height from the floor - as a rule, not higher than 50 cm. With this scheme, exhaust steam is emitted into the atmosphere. Moreover, the floor in the steam room warms up well Ventilation in the bath is not needed in only one case: if it is all built of wood and has not been insulated anywhere - neither inside nor outside. In this case, air exchange occurs due to the fact that the wood "breathes". Even in this case, they talk about the presence of natural ventilation in the bath: any wood has pores and crevices through which the outflow / inflow of air occurs, temperature and humidity are regulated. But if there is insulation or moisture / vapor insulation in the bath from rounded logs, then the creation of additional ventilation holes is necessary.
There are three types of ventilation:
- mechanical ventilation. In this case, the inflow and outflow of air masses occurs due to artificially created air movement. Air parameters are controlled by technical means.
- Natural ventilation: circulation occurs due to the difference in pressure inside and outside the room. This method is possible only if there are "breathing" walls or thoughtfully arranged ventilation vents.
- Combined ventilation: the simultaneous use of the natural movement of air masses and technical devices (in the simplest case, fans).
The video below shows a variant of combined ventilation.
In a specific case, 100 micron aluminum foil was used in the construction of the ventilation duct.
Bath ventilation device
In the simplest version, the ventilation system of a steam room or bath consists of two (sometimes more) holes in the walls and / or foundation: supply and exhaust. The whole trick is in choosing the location of these holes and in their sizes. Sometimes, to provide more active air exchange, fans can be installed.
Heating and ventilation of the bath. In the simplest case, the exhaust vent is located near the ceiling There is no single ventilation scheme for a bath: they are too different both in design features and in the materials from which they are made. But there are general rules and some of the most common schemes, adhering to which, you can choose the optimal ventilation for your particular case.
The dimensions of the ventilation openings are calculated based on the volume of the steam room: for one cubic meter of ventilated area, the size of the openings should be 24 cm 2.
Despite the fact that the main task in the bath is to maintain high humidity in the steam room and a sufficient level of temperature, it is impossible to make the ventilation holes too small: they will not provide the necessary level of air exchange. Exhaust vents must match the size of the supply: if the proportions are violated, air exchange will also be insufficient. In some cases, to speed up the removal of exhaust air and speed up the drying of the bath, two exhaust holes can be made.
To ensure the required air conditions when heating the steam room, special covers / plugs are made on the ventilation ducts that can be opened / closed from the steam room, thereby regulating humidity / temperature / air exchange. Generally speaking, the presence of plugs or covers on any vent facing the street is a must: in winter, cold air actively rushes into a warm room and the presence of covers or regulators to stop it is necessary.
Where can there be supply and exhaust openings
Most often, at least partially located in the steam room. In this case, the supply hole is made near the furnace at a distance no higher than 30 cm from the floor. The incoming cold air quickly warms up from the furnace and rises. This is quite popular, but not the best way to organize ventilation for a bath. Ventilation is much more effective when the supply openings are located in the foundation under the floor (so that rodents do not penetrate through them, the openings are equipped with metal gratings). This option solves two problems at once: it delivers fresh air to the bath, and also effectively dries the floors and walls after the procedures are completed. Floor boards, in this case, are not laid close, but with a small gap for free passage of air. If you don’t want to leave gaps in the floor (although this is very good for a bath), you can make several ventilation holes in the floor, covered with wooden grates. The air movement in this case will not be so active, more powerful fans may be needed, but the circuit will remain operational.
When planning the supply vents in the foundation, keep in mind that the air in the bath should come from the street, and not from the underground, otherwise it will have a musty smell. To organize air intake from the street, a box made of wood (often home-made), plastic or metal (ready-made) is placed in the hole, and it is also taken out near the stove. Usually, the inlets are located in the area that is protected by a metal or asbestos sheet from coals and firebrands.
Ventilation openings in the foundation are provided at the planning stage. If the foundation is already ready, but there are no ventilation holes, you can make the floor ventilation in the steam room differently: lay the floor boards on the logs, but not close to each other, but with a gap of 0.5-1 cm. In the gap between the draft (earth / concrete) floor and the finishing floor, an outlet is arranged, which passes into a ventilation pipe that leads the exhaust air to the roof (but not to the attic). This option provides for the presence of only one inlet, which is usually arranged below the heater. The exhaust pipe under the floor is installed on the opposite side of the room (but not opposite, but obliquely).
It is impossible to make an exhaust pipe in a steam room from plastic boxes for ventilation - they cannot withstand high temperatures, but it is permissible to use them in a locker room or washing department.
With such a ventilation scheme in the steam room, cold air warms up near the stove, rises, then, cooling down, falls down, seeps through the cracks in the floor under the floor and is discharged through the outlet pipe. These two options effectively remove moisture after the bath, they can also be considered floor ventilation schemes in the bath.
Exhaust openings can be located on the opposite wall from the supply opening (if both of these walls face the street) or on the same wall, but in the opposite corner. There is a scheme in which they are located at the top on the opposite wall (30 cm from the ceiling), sometimes they are located below (30 cm from the floor). If the exhaust vent is at the bottom or on the same wall as the supply vent, a fan is needed to create airflow.
In order for the ventilation in the bath to remain effective, it is impossible:
- make ventilation vents smaller than calculated ones;
- position the supply and exhaust openings one opposite the other - so the incoming air is almost immediately removed without giving up oxygen, a draft is formed, which is contraindicated for a bath.
Steam room ventilation schemes
Consider some of the most common options for ventilation in the steam room:
These are the most commonly used ventilation schemes for steam rooms in the bath, there are many more variations and combinations. Based on these four options for organizing ventilation, you can develop a scheme for your steam room.
Ventilation in the washing section of the bath
In the washing room, high humidity is a common thing, and so that the lining does not rot or an unpleasant smell appears, it is necessary to provide floor ventilation. It is arranged similarly to floor ventilation in a steam room: an exhaust hole is made between the rough and finishing floors, which can be equipped with a fan. The exhaust pipe is displayed on the roof.
With such a floor ventilation scheme in the washing compartment, the coldest exhaust air is removed, and warmer air from the upper layers descends in its place. Thus, an increase in the comfort of the people living here is also achieved.
The principle of the ventilation device in all other rooms of the bath is the same. You need to decide on the optimal ventilation system specifically for your conditions and select / develop the most suitable scheme. The ventilation in the washing department differs only in that, due to lower air temperatures, plastic ventilation ducts can be used here (which cannot be done in the steam room) and fans can be installed not heat-resistant, but only tolerant of high humidity (moisture-proof).
Brick and Turkish bath ventilation
When planning a ventilation system for a brick bath, it must be taken into account that its efficiency should be several times higher than that of a wooden one. Indeed, in this case, it will be necessary to dry not only the inner lining of the steam room / washing / locker room, but also the walls: brick is a very hygroscopic material. To remove all moisture, it is necessary that the inflow / outflow of air during drying be very active, and the vents should have reliable dampers that allow you to adjust the intensity of air movement.
When arranging ventilation with its 100% humidity, exhaust ventilation must also be very efficient: in an hour of operation, it is necessary to ensure six changes of air in the room. In addition, it is necessary to provide for the possibility of removing condensate, which forms during cooling in large quantities. There are two ways to solve this problem: install an air dryer in the pipe, which discharges condensate into the sewer system, or provide a channel for condensate drainage in the ventilation pipe (it also goes into the sewer).
Conclusion: it is necessary to plan ventilation at the design stage of the bath, placing supply vents in the foundation. If necessary, you can make vents in the finished walls, but this is quite troublesome and difficult.
Russian bath is very beneficial for health. The fundamental point in its construction is well-equipped ventilation in the bath in the steam room. In this room, as a rule, very high temperature and humidity. Properly organized air circulation is a necessary condition.
Often, many homeowners doubt whether ventilation is needed in the bath in the steam room. The proposed material will allow you to correctly answer this question and solve all the problems with the arrangement of ventilation without much difficulty and without significant material costs.
Ventilation in the steam room is necessary for air circulation
Why do you need ventilation in the steam room
Proper ventilation of the sauna steam room helps to solve the following problems:
- maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature;
- health safety;
- the preservation of the wood used for the interior decoration of the steam room.
Ventilation products in the steam room help to regulate the temperature, and keep the wood from dampness and fungus longer If the ventilation of the steam room in the Russian bath is not properly equipped, the appearance of such negative factors as:
- rapid cooling of heated air;
- accumulation of gases during the adoption of procedures;
- premature decay of finishing materials;
- the appearance of harmful microbes, bacteria, mold, fungi;
- bad smell.
The proposed material will describe in detail what should be properly organized ventilation in the steam room of the bath, video and photo materials will clearly illustrate all the key points.
Basic principles of steam room ventilation
A specific scheme for arranging ventilation is usually selected taking into account the architectural features of the building itself, the size, number of rooms, etc. In this case, it is necessary to strictly observe the basic principles for arranging ventilation systems for steam rooms in Russian baths. If they are violated, various negative phenomena can occur that create a serious threat to the health and life of vacationers.
The fresh air inlet is located just above the floor level. In order for the incoming air to warm up immediately, the inlet is located in the immediate vicinity of the furnace.
The outlet for used air is located under the ceiling. The main thing is that the inlet and outlet for air be equipped on opposite walls.
Important! Under no circumstances should these holes be placed at the same level! The air in the interior space will not fully circulate. There will be a temperature difference that creates a serious health hazard.
The dimensions of the inlet and outlet holes are identical. They are selected depending on the dimensions of the internal space of the steam room. For 1 cu. m of air requires 24 cm of pipe diameter. If necessary, arrangement of additional air outlets is allowed.
The ventilation of the steam room is arranged in such a way that the exhaust air is completely replaced every 3-4 hours. This is required by sanitary and fire safety standards.
The vent in the bath is equipped with valves to regulate the air flow The ventilation device in the steam room of the bath requires the mandatory placement of a valve system. You can use special blinds for this. This will allow you to control the amount of air entering and exiting. If necessary, the bath can be heated or cooled very quickly and without much difficulty.
You need to think about how to make ventilation in the steam room of the bath already when drawing up a project. This will allow you to correctly place all ventilation pipes, openings, etc. during construction. This will allow you to properly equip the mines, lay pipes and perform all other work. It will be much more difficult to equip the air circulation system after the completion of construction work.
Before building a bath, it is necessary to consider the location of the ventilation ducts in the bath Varieties of ventilation systems for the steam room
Ventilation in the bath in the steam room (see photo) is used in 3 types - natural, forced (i.e. mechanical) and combined. The choice of a particular system is made taking into account factors such as:
- the size of the steam room and the dimensions of the building as a whole;
- it is possible to correctly place the exhaust pipes;
- the material from which the bath was built;
- use of the bath all year round or only in the summer season.
Warm air is lighter than cold air. Therefore, with properly equipped ventilation in the bath in the steam room, heated flows rise to the ceiling and are gradually drawn out through the vent. The air coming from the outside is immediately heated from the stove and passes into the room without creating a temperature difference. Here is the basic principle by which ventilation works in the bath in the steam room.
natural ventilation
The natural ventilation system provides air exchange due to different levels of pressure and temperature in the internal space (in the steam room) and outside, i.e. on the street. When the exhaust air exits through the outlet, the internal atmosphere in the room is discharged, creating conditions for drawing in cold air through the bottom inlet. In this case, special attention should be paid to the insulation of the bath. Otherwise, high-quality heating will not work.
Natural ventilation in a steam room in a frame bath is most often used for small buildings built from breathable material, i.e., from wood. Additional elements of the ventilation system in this case are small gaps in the log walls. The main advantage of natural ventilation is its low cost.
Forced and combined ventilation
A mechanical or forced ventilation system in a bath in a steam room is necessary if:
- the total area of the bath is large;
- the building was built of brick, cinder blocks, stone;
- the steam room is very large;
- exhaust pipes cannot be placed correctly;
- heavy duty oven.
Do-it-yourself forced ventilation of the steam room of the bath is mounted without any problems. It uses:
- fans;
- supply valves;
- deflectors.
Forced ventilation in the bath is suitable for large rooms Nuance! The ventilation system in the bath in the steam room, heated with a geyser, requires the arrangement of a separate ventilation duct.
The combined ventilation system is equipped using elements of both systems described above. Fresh air enters naturally, i.e. through the lower inlet. Extraction of exhaust air masses is provided by mechanical devices.
How to choose a steam room fan
A classic duct-type fan for a steam room is not suitable. High temperature and humidity are detrimental to such devices. In the steam room, fans of a special design are used. The material for their manufacture is glass-filled polyamide. Such models are resistant to moisture and can withstand temperatures up to 130 ° C.
Glass fiber reinforced polyamide is an ideal material for steam room fans The fan model is selected in accordance with the technical specifications.
It should be remembered! Ordinary room fans can only be used for the final drying and airing of the steam room after the adoption of procedures and subsequent cleaning.
If you have money, you can install a self-regulating system for ventilation in the bath in the steam room. This device will automatically provide air inlet and outlet, temperature, humidity level. It is advisable to purchase such systems only from trusted manufacturers.
Basic schemes
What can be the ventilation in the steam room of the bath, the diagram, video and other materials attached below will show clearly. You just need to choose 1 of the 4 attached options and correctly perform all the necessary work.
According to scheme A, the fresh air inlet is arranged below the stove. The outlet channel is mounted on a directly opposite wall under the ceiling.
The exhaust pipe is installed vertically. Its length is calculated so that the upper edge of the pipe rises slightly above the roof ridge. This will ensure the normal functioning of the ventilation system during strong winds.
Scheme A of the location of ventilation in the bath Properly selected sizes of pipes for exhaust air will ensure the natural circulation of air masses. Additional adjustment is provided by the installation of dampers.
The use of scheme B is assumed only if only 1 of the walls of the steam room can be used for arranging ventilation. Air openings are located opposite the heater. The inlet hole is raised 30 cm from the finished floor. The outlet window is lowered 20 cm from the ceiling.
Scheme B Arrangement of ventilation ducts in front of the heater The air passing through the bottom inlet is heated by the furnace and rises in the direction of the air outlet. Mechanical pulling devices are necessary for the normal functioning of the system.
According to scheme C, it is possible to provide ventilation not only for the steam room, but also for the underground space. The inlet hole is arranged in the wall behind the heater. It must be raised above the finished floor by 20 cm.
Scheme C with air supply under the floor of the bath The heated supply air passes into the basement through the cracks of the leaking floor. Then it returns to the steam room and moves towards the exhaust opening. From here, the exhausted air masses go outside.
For a constantly used bath, ventilation according to scheme D can be used. In this case, the inlet is arranged at the bottom, but opposite the stove, and not behind it, as in other options. Height above the floor - 20 cm. Extraction of exhaust air is provided by means of a blower and a chimney.
In order for the ventilation in the bath in the steam room to work effectively, it is necessary to choose the right location for the stove. It is most convenient to equip it inside the steam room. If the stove is located in an adjacent room, the efficiency of the ventilation system and the heater itself will be noticeably lower.
Preparatory work
To arrange ventilation in the steam room, it is necessary to prepare the following materials:
- brick and/or stone;
- cement and sand;
- ventilation ducts;
- finished valves or material for their manufacture;
- a metal sheet;
- lining for lining the box;
- fixing material - nails, screws, self-tapping screws.
To work, you will need the following tools:
- hacksaw;
- Bulgarian;
- a hammer;
- screwdriver;
- tape measure, level, plumb;
- construction mixer;
- drill or perforator;
- a set of spatulas;
- container for mixing the solution;
- technical knife;
Work is best done in special clothing. Wear gloves and a respirator if necessary.
Supply ventilation installation
The inlet channel for supplying fresh air is located in the immediate vicinity of the furnace of the sauna stove. It is desirable that the inlet is located above a sheet of metal sheathing that protects the wood from the accidental ingress of small coals.
First, you need to make a box from a suitable material. Its dimensions should exceed the dimensions of the chimney by about 20%. The outer opening of the box is located on the outer wall. It is undesirable to place it in the basement.
If the firebox is located in the actual steam room, a convection box is additionally equipped. At the wall in which the air inlet is located, you need to lay out a podium of bricks placed “on edge”. They are laid out in 3 rows - under the wall, in the middle and on the edge.
The masonry for the oven is arranged to a height of 25 cm. It must be brought to a brick screen and must be blocked. In order for the newly incoming air to pass directly into the furnace, it is better not to lay the last 2 bricks. The butt is lined with bricks.
The convection box is mounted to the end. At the end, a blower is equipped. Under it is a protective substrate for the safety of the floor covering.
When the podium is completely ready, you can start installing the furnace. To evenly distribute the load, it is desirable to use a corner made of metal.
After the final installation, stone or brickwork is arranged around the furnace. To form a gap, it is moved 5-6 cm from the furnace. Next, a special screen is installed. It needs to form holes for the passage of hot air.
Installation of outflow ventilation
The outflow box is installed diametrically opposite from the inlet. It is raised above the finished floor by 30 cm. The inner area of the box is approximately 1.25 m².
Through the wall, the outflow duct is led to the ceiling and an external outlet is equipped for it. You can remove the exhaust air to an adjacent room. In this way, it will be possible to warm it up without extra costs.
Outflow ventilation can be placed on top of the ceiling To avoid accidental burns, the chimney box must be lined with a brick or stone casing. At the same time, a special hole with a door must be left below, which will be a blower. An additional hole, equipped on top, will allow the chimney to be used as a heat pump, this will create both heating of the room and proper air circulation.
How to ventilate a Russian bath
The correct ventilation device in the steam room of the Russian bath does not involve the use of any mechanical devices. Otherwise, the heated air will be expelled very quickly. Efficiency and pleasure from bathing procedures will decrease significantly.
In the Russian bath, natural ventilation is used, where the outflow of air is carried out through the window. Therefore, the Russian bath must be carefully cleaned, ventilated and dried after each use. For ventilation, a special window is installed in the wall opposite the door. You can use a mechanical extractor. The door must be kept open for ventilation.
It is necessary to remove leaves from brooms and random objects from the beds. Then you need to wash all surfaces and dry them with towels and / or a special absorbent cloth. This will protect against the formation of mold and the reproduction of harmful microorganisms. After cleaning, airing and drying, the steam room is ready for further use.
The steam room in the Russian bath is combined with a washing room, so it needs to be dried after each use How to warm up a Russian bath
First you need to fire up the oven. The outlet openings must be kept closed. Only input opens.
Having warmed up the room to the desired temperature, you need to open the valve of the lower air outlet pipe. This will ensure proper air circulation. The temperature will not drop.
In order to warm up the stove, it is necessary to open the valve in the stove of the Russian bath Passing into the box from below, the heated air will gradually displace cool air masses to the outlet. When passing through the box, they will provide additional heating of the room. In parallel, the ventilation of the steam room will also take place.
If ventilation is not working properly
During the use of the steam room, it is necessary to periodically check the health of the ventilation system. With good air circulation in the steam room, it is always easy to breathe, the body heats up evenly, the temperature and humidity are maintained at the required level.
If the ventilation in the bath in the steam room was installed incorrectly or became unusable over time, signs such as:
- abundant condensation on vertical surfaces;
- mold, especially in the corners;
- putrid smell;
- uneven air heating;
- drafts;
- slow setting of the required temperature;
- excessively rapid heat loss;
- an unpleasant internal atmosphere that makes it difficult to breathe.
Mold in the steam room indicates a lack of ventilation If at least 1 or 2 of the above factors are present, then the ventilation in the bath in the steam room is not properly equipped. Another option is clogging and / or damage to the system, the need for urgent repairs and / or thorough cleaning of individual elements or the ventilation system as a whole.
Clogging of ventilation ducts disrupts its operation From the foregoing, it becomes clear that it is inexpensive and not very difficult to properly ventilate the steam room of the bath. However, this requires careful observance of all technologies. The attached video "How to make ventilation in the steam room of the bath" will help to avoid mistakes.
The Russian bath is known for its health benefits. Her visit is a great way to relieve stress and normalize all vital processes in the body. If you want to take a steam bath with benefit, you should make sure that the ventilation in the Russian bath is designed and done correctly.
It is useful to visit the bath only if it is equipped with ventilation.
Without proper ventilation, the air becomes saturated with carbon dioxide. It is not safe to be in such a place. Lack of oxygen leads to dizziness, loss of consciousness and even death.
Why is ventilation in the steam room so important?
All the peoples of the world know about the miraculous Russian bathhouse. Having visited it at least once, you can notice an improvement in well-being, a surge of vigor and strength. The effect of steam treatment is achieved due to the influence of hot air on the human body.
During overheating, all vital processes begin to work more intensively. The blood circulates more actively, the lungs cleanse themselves, and the skin becomes soft and supple. An important feature of Russian baths is to help fight fatigue and stress: during procedures, the body gets rid of lactic acid, the effect of which is felt by all people after a grueling day at work.
The effect of the bath on the body can be negative. Significant harm is caused by poor ventilation in the steam room of the Russian bath. Combustion products emitted into the steam room quickly accumulate in it. Without proper ventilation, the concentration of carbon monoxide becomes dangerous to humans. And in combination with high temperature and high humidity, the steam room becomes a real hell. Visiting such a place is dangerous and risky.
We must not forget that humid air in a hot environment undergoes condensation. Water that covers walls, floors and furniture is dangerous, but not for a person, but for a building. Russian baths are made of wood, which is exposed to the negative effects of condensate.
This natural material rots and quickly becomes unusable. But this problem is solved: you can make effective ventilation in the bath with your own hands. The ventilation organized by the chosen scheme will allow you to bathe with health benefits.
Properly equipped ventilation significantly extends the life of the room
Types of ventilation and their features
About whether ventilation is needed in the bath, people have been thinking for a long time. Even many centuries ago, its visitors felt a deterioration in well-being due to carbon monoxide, which saturates the air in the steam room.
The situation changed for the better when the attendants went out into the street. Therefore, each bath builder paid due attention to getting fresh air into the steam room and removing carbon dioxide from it. People did not carry out any heavy mathematical calculations. The ventilation device looked like this:
- construction of a stove with a chimney through which combustion products leave the steam room;
- the formation of cracks and gaps between boards and logs through which clean fresh air enters the steam room, as well as between the door leaf and the floor.
Such ventilation of the steam room is still used today. But its efficiency is much lower than modern schemes of natural and forced ventilation. Even a simple, well-placed air inlet will be more useful than a few gaps in the walls or floor. Therefore, it is necessary to give preference to already proven, high-quality ventilation schemes.
Ventilation in the steam room can be simple (natural) and mechanical (forced).
The natural circuit works in accordance with physical laws. Warm air is lighter than cold air and therefore it will rise under the ceiling. Cold air currents push them out from below, under the pressure of inflow flows from the street.
In order for hot air to be removed from the room, an exhaust window should be installed on the opposite wall from the inlet. Its presence in some schemes is optional: high-quality air exchange can be carried out using the thrust that the furnace pipe forms.
The ventilation system also works under the mechanical action of fans. Installing these devices in the exhaust duct allows you to make the circuit independent of weather factors. In addition, forced ventilation is much more efficient than natural ventilation.
Installation of fans in the ventilation ducts makes the system independent of weather conditions
Common ventilation schemes in a Russian steam bath
If you decide to start building a bathhouse on your land, it is important to pay attention to the design of the ventilation system. The best option will provide high-quality air exchange of the room without a threat to the health of the visitor to the steam room. The most common schemes are:
- with an exhaust hole above the stove;
- with a supply hole behind the stove;
- with supply and exhaust openings on the same wall opposite the furnace;
- without exhaust hole.
Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages. When choosing a suitable scheme, you can be guided by the area of \u200b\u200bthe room, its layout, the location of its individual components (stoves, doors to the locker room, etc.). The main thing is that during the bathing procedures, carbon dioxide continuously leaves the room through the exhaust window or the stove chimney.
Constant effective operation of the ventilation scheme due to the influence of natural air exchange is impossible. The quality of ventilation depends on the air temperature outside, atmospheric pressure, wind speed, etc. Often, the owners of Russian baths have difficulty visiting the steam room in the summer, when the weather is hot and windless.
Under such conditions, the thrust is weak, it alone is not enough for a safe stay in the steam room. For safety, install a fan in the exhaust window (if any), which will forcibly draw hot air out of the room. The system will be more efficient if the same device is installed in the inlet.
Simple ventilation scheme
One of the simplest but most effective ventilation schemes is the option of installing an exhaust window above the stove. Hot air is light, according to the laws of physics, it rises to the ceiling, and the hood, installed in the right place, will quickly remove it. Features of this scheme:
- A through supply hole should be punched on the wall opposite the stove. The best place is 15-20 cm from the floor. Fresh air, penetrating into the room, will mix with the remnants of cold air in the steam room, displacing hot streams up.
- The exhaust opening is installed above the stove (14 -20 cm from the ceiling). The generated draft removes the heated air, which is concentrated under the ceiling.
- Through windows must be the same size. From the inside, they are closed with decorative grilles or special valves, which are used to adjust the traction force.
The best effect with such ventilation can be obtained only with the help of a fan. It is installed in the exhaust hole and connected to the mains.
The best effect of simple ventilation can only be obtained with a fan
Not every device can be used in rooms with high humidity. Before buying a fan, you should find out which device models have the appropriate moisture protection.
Scheme with a supply hole behind the stove
If there is a gap of at least 25 cm in the steam room between the back wall of the stove and the building itself, another ventilation method can be used. In this scheme, air is supplied through an opening located behind the stove. The builder should take care of:
- on the installation of a supply duct at the bottom of the wall, at a distance of 50–55 cm from the floor;
- on the installation of an exhaust hole on the opposite wall at the bottom of the wall (25-30 cm from the floor);
- about installing an exhaust fan.
Without forced draft, this ventilation scheme will be ineffective.
Air, penetrating into the steam room, collides with the stove. As it warms up, it rises. The operation of the fan creates artificial draft, which removes mixed streams of cold and hot air.
You can do without mechanical devices only by placing the exhaust hole at the top of the wall. But, such a scheme will bring the desired effect only when creating technological gaps in the floor. Passing through them, air currents save the wooden floor from condensation. That is, they extend the life of building materials by several slots.
Ventilation with supply and exhaust openings on the same wall
An easy way to ensure high-quality ventilation in the bath is to make ventilation windows on one wall. An important condition: they are installed opposite the furnace. Requirements for this type of ventilation:
- the supply window is mounted at a distance of 30 cm from the floor;
- exhaust window - 30 cm from the ceiling;
- there should be no obstacles on the way between the supply window and the stove.
The work is simple: air, penetrating into the steam room, is attracted to the stove. It heats up and rises, where it is removed by the exhaust hole. For the best effect, the system is made forced (a fan is installed in the exhaust window).
The scheme with ventilation elements on one wall has drawbacks, the main one being a draft. Fresh air, penetrating into the steam room, goes to the stove. During bath procedures, this flow can be harmful. This version of the ventilation system is only suitable for spacious baths.
Schematic without exhaust port
In small baths, the most common option for creating high-quality microclimatic conditions is ventilation with one supply window. The role of the hood in such a system is performed by the chimney of the furnace. This ventilation option works like this:
- Fresh air flows that have entered the room are attracted to the walls of the furnace.
- As it heats up, the air rises.
- When it cools down, it falls and is discharged into the chimney.
The main feature is the possibility of operation only during the operation of the stove (taking bath procedures). At other times it is ineffective.
The fan can only be installed in the supply window. Cold air is attracted to the walls of the furnace along the bottom of the room, which brings discomfort to visitors to the bath.
To the question of what a bath should be, any person will answer the same way: hot and “light”. This is an obvious fact for everyone. Therefore, the majority approaches the process of insulation with all responsibility, using all kinds of methods and materials to ensure maximum heat retention inside. It is not surprising that this creates the effect of a thermos.
They don’t provide the second component of an excellent bath, they miss it and wonder why the “steam” failed, and instead of a healing effect, the opposite result was obtained. Unfortunately, even experienced people forget about such an important point as.
But its significance should not be overestimated: during the heating of the furnace, oxygen burns out, and instead of it, CO2 is released, under the influence of which high chance of "burning out". Our blood is supersaturated with carbon monoxide, there is a possibility of disorientation or loss of consciousness (not to mention the more unfortunate consequences). Therefore, a system is needed that provides oxygen supply and additionally regulates the temperature regime inside the steam room.
In addition to the functions of replenishing oxygen, ventilation allows you to dry the building, stopping the negative effects of excess moisture and steam, which can lead to the appearance of mold or rot on the structures, as well as an unpleasant smell or musty feeling. Lack of exhaust can destroy wood in just 2-3 seasons.
A ventilation device is required in any baths, not only brick and block ones, wooden ones are no less demanding for drying. An exception may be baths with slots, but here they cannot be called baths: they will not retain heat.
REFERENCE. Of particular note is the possibility of using natural ventilation, which does not require the use of expensive materials and equipment (however, it is also not worth leaving a gap on purpose). How to organize this process we will tell in this article. We will not ignore the device of the forced supply and exhaust system.
Ventilation in the bath in the steam room: why is it necessary?
Above, we have already talked about the dangers of a closed environment from the point of view of carbon monoxide exposure, and also mentioned the need to create a microclimate for drying the steam room after its use. Ventilation in the bath, in the steam room will definitely increase the comfort of staying there and extend the life of the building.
A distinctive feature of the Russian bath is wet steam. At the same time, the temperature regime also varies, which is lower than that of the sauna. However, warm air saturated with moisture warms up the human body much faster and has a softer and more gentle effect (there is no spasmodic effect on blood vessels, you can visit the elderly and children).
The device of the furnace is quite specific: as a rule, stones are placed inside, access to them can be obtained by opening the door. This ensures that the stones retain heat for a longer time, and they are more difficult to pour, even with inept water consumption.
Ventilation in the steam room of the Russian bath. The most important thing is to keep the balance, because the steam has a “shocking” character, escaping from the stove immediately after water has been splashed on the heater. If it is not designed correctly, then you can miss all the steam.
In the Russian steam room, vents are most often used, which are installed at the bottom of the walls and ensure the safety of the heat that accumulates near the ceiling.
Ventilation in the steam room: requirements
When ventilation is designed in a steam room, the requirements for it are simple. You must adhere to the following rules:
- coolness should be near the floor, and heat near the ceiling;
- even temperature level, without fluctuations;
- The “exhausted” air must be replaced with fresh, enriched oxygen.
Ventilation in the steam room: device
It is based on the laws of physics: the influx of fresh air from below displaces hot air from above through the corresponding holes, thereby ensuring air exchange. In this case, a rarefaction of air occurs (pressure decreases), and cool air is drawn in. It, in turn, gradually heats up, rushes up, and further along the cycle. This is how ventilation works in a steam room, its device is quite simple. More .
Natural or forced?
In order to answer the question: natural or forced ventilation for a steam room - it should be disassembled in each of the types.
Natural the microclimate is formed independently in the presence of planned vents (openings), or slots, when the air convection processes described above start in the building.
The advantages include: low cost of implementation, the absence of extraneous noise / vibration from working devices and the use of natural features. Possible difficulties: errors in the placement of holes, as a result: lack of traction (the opposite - the appearance of excessive drafts); the penetration of extraneous (with a high degree of probability - unpleasant) odors from the street.
Forced ventilation system uses equipment and materials that create artificial air movement in the required direction. Regulated by special control units. This is a very expensive solution that requires competent design and further implementation. When properly placed, it is guaranteed to provide a measured circulation of air currents.
There are combined types for a bath: steam room ventilation, combining both of these areas and having the pros and cons of each option.
If you decide to do ventilation on your own, but it is better to stop at natural - it is more in line with the spirit of the bath than the use of intricate devices. However, we do not dissuade you from using forced supply and exhaust ventilation.
Ventilation in the steam room of the bath: scheme
Ventilation in the steam room of the bath - system diagram. It consists of two openings: one of which is inlet, and the other is exhaust (you can make several exits). When choosing the size of the exhaust opening, you must be guided by several rules:
- the largest should be at the maximum distance from the furnace(so that the heat does not go outside in a forward flow);
- the rest can be launched around the perimeter of the ceiling;
- the size of the holes is calculated based on 24 square meters. cm per cubic meter of room. Most often, the diameter does not exceed 30 cm, but the number is 2 or more.
The traction force is determined by the height difference between the supply and exhaust openings.
IMPORTANT! Do not place the holes exactly opposite each other, this will inevitably cause drafts.
Ventilation in the steam room of the Russian bath: scheme
Ventilation is provided in the steam room of the Russian bath by a scheme in which there are vents with adjustable plugs, taking into account the above rules. Or the use of salvo ventilation, which we will discuss later.
Bath: ventilation of the steam room (if the oven is in the dressing room or rest room)
About the bath, ventilation of the steam room, in which the stove is located in a different room than the steam room, you will most likely have to think about forced ventilation, which will ensure the movement of the flow in the right direction.
As shown in the diagram:
Sauna: ventilation of the steam room (if the oven is in the steam room or the steam room is connected to the washing room)
It is provided by heating the cold air coming from the outside from the furnace and pushing it away from the heat source, and returning it back after hitting the walls. Air movement can be stimulated by the use of additional fans.
For a bath, ventilation of a steam room - the organization of drying a bath is especially important, since the water in the washing room can have a truly destructive effect on finishing materials and floors. In addition to the main one, enhanced floor ventilation is required: by installing an exhaust opening between the finishing and subfloor, the installation can be accompanied by the installation of a fan.
REFERENCE. Make sure that the fan does not get water in order to eliminate the risk of a short circuit.
More than 10 different bath ventilation schemes.
Where to place supply and exhaust openings
There are a few simple rules - where to place the supply and exhaust openings:
- the supply air (from which freshness comes) should be located below, closer to the floor;
- exhaust - located away from the stove, closer to the ceiling.
Wherein it is desirable to place the supply opening near the furnace so that in the cold season the air warms up a little before entering the steam room.
The height at which the holes are placed is about 30 centimeters: from the floor or ceiling.
Will be effective installation of supply valves in the foundation (under the floor). The use of a valve system or the installation of an additional protective grille on the opening will protect you from the possible penetration of rodents. In this case, it is better to lay the floor with small gaps for freer access of oxygen. If you want a smooth and even floor, then you can get by with special ventilation windows that can be covered with decorative wooden gratings.
IMPORTANT! When placing the valve on the foundation, it is necessary to ensure that freshness is taken from the street, and not from the underground, otherwise unpleasant odors will come along with the air.
Common layouts include:
- for baths with continuous oven: the inlet opposite the stove is 30 centimeters from the floor, and the furnace blower will play the role of an exhaust hood;
- for baths with poured floors: air inlet 30 cm from the floor behind the firebox, and “working out” leaves after cooling through the cracks in the floor;
- the location of both holes on the same wall: opposite the stove, but one is near the floor, and the second is near the ceiling. A fan is installed at the exit. Justified where the wall with holes faces the street.
- hole arrangement at the same height but on opposite walls(do not output in one line!), The fan is installed in the same way. It is considered not very effective, since the heat will go outside almost immediately, and the drying of the room will be faster due to the open door.
Wall ventilation in a steam frame bath
Frame wall pie. See more about the insulation of frame walls.
It is carried out by leaving a ventilated gap between the finishing materials and the vapor barrier, it can reach 5 cm. The ventilation of the walls in the steam frame bath is provided by a counter grill. The corrugations of the ventilation system should be designed in advance in order to place the insulation with the calculation of the place for the pipes.
What can not be used for ventilation in the steam room?
Refuse to use plastic elements:
- corrugation;
- boxes;
- plugs.
This is something that cannot be used for ventilation in the steam room - they do not withstand high temperatures, they will melt, releasing harmful substances and acquiring an unaesthetic appearance.
But in the washing room or dressing room, their use is not forbidden.
Only wood can be used as plugs for vents or hatches: metal can burn from heat or rust from moisture.
Economy solution: volley ventilation in a Russian steam room
If you are not sure that you can correctly calculate the size of the entrances (exits) or their location, you can use the long-tried method - an economy solution: salvo ventilation in a Russian steam bath.
The essence of its application is to quickly ventilate by opening windows and doors wide open. They are plowed open for a short time (no more than 1-2 minutes), for maximum effect it is best to use the opposite window and door.
This method does not require any financial costs: you use the elements that are in any bath.
IMPORTANT! Do not overdo it with ventilation, you can chill the bath a lot. This method is especially good for Russian baths, which are heated in black.
Do I need to hire specialists for calculation and design
If you want a proper, “easy” and hassle-free sauna, steam room ventilation plays an important role: from the longevity of the sauna to your own safety.
If a the bath room is combined with the house, has a rest room or dressing room into which the stove is brought out, or there are other reasons for using forced exhaust, then the answer to the question “do I need to hire specialists for calculation and design” will be unambiguous: it is necessary.
Otherwise, you can make a mistake in an insignificant detail, and the purchased calculation equipment for this reason will not work. And this, in turn, will cause additional costs.
In addition, in order not to violate the structure of the structure, it is better to design the ventilation of the steam room in advance, before the bath is erected, especially when the air inlet must be located on the foundation. Installing a ventilation system in an already built building is a troublesome and time-consuming process. It will require disassembly of almost all finishing materials, freeing up space for corrugations and so on.
When building a brick bath, you can’t do without preliminary preparation at all, because not only wooden finishing materials are required, but also wall material - brick, which (some types, for example, silicate) is prone to absorbing large amounts of water.
Conclusion
Ventilation and renewal of the internal climate are in any case necessary - this is the final conclusion, it is necessary, among other things, to ensure comfort when using the bath. The choice of natural or forced is up to you. We hope that, taking into account our material, you will be able to find the most suitable solution for yourself.
Check out for completeness: and.
