Why is a diffuser necessary for efficient ventilation?

To understand why it is necessary to use a diffuser, or several, to achieve an efficient ventilation system, it is necessary to delve into the concept of thermal rehabilitation. This consists of the incorporation of a thermal insulation core in all facade enclosures. The benefit that this type of rehabilitation brings is based on a significant reduction in the energy consumption of the property. Heat and cold losses through exterior enclosures are drastically reduced, resulting in significant savings in electricity consumption.

An intervention of this kind with an intermediate cost is recouped over a period of 5 to 7 years. It also eliminates the possibility of moisture and mold appearing inside the home and significantly increases its acoustic insulation, preventing noise from outside. The intervention in existing homes through a thermal rehabilitation implies energy savings at the national level. It should not be forgotten that 20% of all energy consumed in our country is used in residential buildings.

When the building is over 30 years old, this type of rehabilitation becomes especially necessary, as these properties usually lack thermal insulation in the facade enclosures. The first regulation drafted in this regard dates back to 1979. That year, Royal Decree 2429/79 came into force, which approved the Basic Building Standard NBE-CT-79 on “Thermal Conditions in Buildings”. Thermal rehabilitations must cover the following elements:

• Facade insulation: must be carried out on walls and windows, whether from the exterior, the interior, or by injecting insulation within the walls. Glass can also be replaced with others with insulating properties, double glazing with an air chamber and thermal bridge breakage.

• Roof insulation: the incorporation of thermal insulation is done according to its composition. It can be placed between partitions, wooden beams, or battens. Thermal insulation should preferably consist of rigid interlocking panels on which the finishing material of the roof can be easily placed.

• Floor and ceiling insulation: insulation should be placed in ceilings that separate habitable spaces and in floors in contact with the ground or with the outside air.

• Insulation of interior partitions and separation between homes: thermal insulation should be incorporated into the separation walls between homes or party walls and those that separate the dwelling from common areas such as stairwells, elevators, or landings. In these cases, a drywall partition is usually insulated with insulating material.

• Insulation of pipes: it is advisable to incorporate thermal insulation around heating pipes, sanitary hot water pipes, or thermal accumulators. This prevents heat loss during the transport of hot water and possible condensation in cold water pipes.