Cleaning, installing and replacing air valves: this is how you do it!

Air valves ensure the correct air supply and air extraction in a home with mechanical ventilation or an MVHR unit. An air valve may look simple, but the position of a valve is very important for the proper operation of a ventilation system. Do you want to clean, install, adjust or replace an air valve? In this blog, we briefly and practically explain what you need to pay attention to.

How do I install an air valve?

Installing an air valve is an important step for a properly functioning ventilation system. The valve determines how air is supplied to or extracted from a room. That is why it is important to carefully check the application, the correct size and the mounting method in advance. Air valves are usually installed in the ceiling or high up in the wall and connected to a ventilation duct. Depending on the type of valve, this is done with a mounting sleeve or with spring clips. Always check whether you need a supply air valve or an extract air valve and whether the diameter matches the duct. This ensures that the valve is firmly fitted and that the airflow is not unnecessarily restricted.

Step-by-step plan for installing an air valve

1. Check the correct location and determine whether it is for air supply or extraction.
2. Measure the required installation size or duct diameter.
3. Mark the opening on the ceiling or wall.
4. Make the hole using suitable tools.
5. Remove dust and clean the opening.
6. Place the mounting sleeve or press the valve with spring clips into the opening.
7. Install the valve and check whether it is firmly and straightly fitted.

What is the difference between a mounting sleeve and spring clips for a valve?

Depending on the type of valve, you install it using a mounting sleeve or spring clips. A mounting sleeve is a separate sleeve that is first placed in the opening or duct. The valve is then slid into the sleeve or secured in place. This provides a neat, stable connection and is especially useful when creating a new opening or when you want to create a fixed connection.

An air valve with spring clips has small springs on the side that clamp the valve directly into the opening. A separate mounting sleeve is not always required for this. This type is useful for existing openings or when the valve needs to be easy to install and remove, for example for cleaning or replacement. Always check which fixing method belongs to the valve and whether it matches the diameter of the duct.

How far should I open an air valve?

There is no standard answer to this question. The correct position depends on the design of the system, the size of the room and the required airflow rate. That is why valves are normally adjusted based on the specific situation.

What is the best setting for an air valve?

There is no fixed setting that applies to every home and every room. Different valves have different settings and allow a different amount of air to pass through at each setting. The size of the room also plays a role. A small toilet, for example, requires a different airflow than a large bathroom.

In practice, the following usually applies:

• Bathroom: extract air valve usually opened further because of moisture and the size of the room.
• Toilet: extract air valve adjusted to quickly remove odours.
• Kitchen: extract air valve adjusted to remove moisture, cooking odours and polluted air.
• Bedroom: supply air valve adjusted for a calm, continuous supply of fresh air.
• Living room: supply air valve often opened slightly more than in smaller dry rooms, depending on the size of the room.

This also answers the question ‘what setting should an air valve in the bathroom have?’: this extract air valve is usually opened further than valves in less humid rooms, but the exact setting depends on the type of valve, the size of the bathroom and the ventilation system. Do not simply open or close a valve further without first marking the current position. Incorrect adjustment can result in reduced ventilation, more noise or a system that becomes unbalanced.

Cleaning an air valve helps maintain proper airflow. Especially in rooms where a lot of dust, grease or moisture is released, dirt can build up quickly. Cleaning an extract air valve is especially important in the bathroom, toilet and kitchen. In these rooms, a valve becomes dirty more quickly due to moisture, dust and grease particles. Lightly soiled valves can often be cleaned while they remain installed. For stubborn dirt, removing the valve works better, as long as you mark the position first.

How often should I clean my air valves?

Clean air valves on average every 3 to 6 months. How often this is necessary mainly depends on the room, the amount of dust in the home and the type of ventilation system. In rooms such as the bathroom, toilet and kitchen, valves often become dirty more quickly due to moisture, dust and grease particles. In these rooms, it is wise to check the valves more often, for example once every 2 to 3 months. In dry rooms, such as the bedroom, living room or home office, cleaning is usually needed less often. Check these valves a few times a year and clean them as soon as you see dust build-up, discolouration or dirt around the edge. Do not wait until the valve is visibly clogged, because dirt can restrict the airflow and cause the ventilation system to work less effectively.

What should I pay attention to when replacing an air valve?

• The same connection size or diameter
• The correct type: supply air valve or extract air valve
• Suitable fixing method: mounting sleeve or spring clips
• Suitability for wall or ceiling

Do not simply replace a valve with another model without paying attention to its function. The wrong type can disrupt the air distribution in your home.

Our specialists are ready to help you with advice and support!

Our ventilation specialists are happy to help you choose the right air valve for your situation. Also view our range of air valves and choose the product that suits your application. Do you still have other questions about the use of valves after reading this blog? We would be happy to hear from you! You can reach us via WhatsApp, phone, email or chat.