Best Check Valves for Ventilation for 2021

The ventilation system is an important element in any building. It effectively eliminates unnecessary and unpleasant odors, and also promotes ventilation of the room. If its operation is disrupted or becomes incorrect, then a person will quickly feel not only odors, but also exhaust air from the natural ventilation channel. It will become impossible to be in such a house or apartment without a respirator. To avoid this, just buy a special device. Therefore, the editors of the YaNashla website have prepared for you a rating of the best reverse ventilation valves for 2021.

Device design features

When a person sees this device for the first time, no questions arise about the principle of its operation. After all, the design is as simple as possible. Despite this, without it it is impossible to organize proper ventilation of the room. If there is no valve, the exhaust air will stop leaving the room. There are several reasons why this happens:

• Missing or incorrect sealing;
• The ventilation duct is clogged with debris;
• The hood is placed in the wrong place;
• The combustion draft increases due to the use of the furnace structure;
• Disturbances in normal ventilation due to the installation of a powerful exhaust system in one of the apartments, this often occurs when some owners install an air duct without taking into account the design features of the building;
• Uneven ventilation due to the presence of several exhaust systems in one apartment.

All these reasons are common in large cities. To prevent them from affecting normal ventilation, manufacturers recommend installing a check valve. Its installation will take a minimum of time, but its effectiveness will remain for a long period. The main design element is the blades located on the same axis. They open only in one direction, and if the opposite movement occurs, they close, preventing unpleasant odors from entering the apartment.

Care and operation

It is recommended to periodically clean the supply ventilation valve in the wall - dust and small debris can accumulate inside the air duct. Dust can also clog both the filter and the sound insulator.

To clean, you need to dismantle the inner housing and remove the filter and sound insulator. It is recommended to do this in the warm season so that cold wind does not blow into the room (or the hole will have to be sealed).

If the filter and insulator are made of synthetics (and most models are so), they can be washed in soapy water. After this, they must dry without fail.

You also need to pay attention to the cleanliness of the air duct inside: you can look inside while the filter and insulation are drying. If there is a large layer of dust or small debris inside, you can remove it with a vacuum cleaner. As an option, you can remove the outer grille and blow out the pipe with a vacuum cleaner.

If the room temperature begins to noticeably decrease in winter (usually this happens when the temperature outside the window is below -10º and/or during strong winds), it is recommended to reduce the air passage through the valve (if adjustment is possible).

Types of valves

By design, valves can be:

• Single leaf. An effective but less common option. As the air flows, pressure is exerted on the valve flap, causing it to open and release excess odors. When there is no movement, the sash closes under the influence of reverse thrust. This prevents unwanted odors from penetrating into the room. If a person uses natural ventilation, this option is most preferable.
• Butterfly valve (double leaf). The most common model, which is equipped with two curtains. They open due to strong exposure to air and close when there is no movement. Everything works automatically without user intervention.
• Blinds. The operating principle of this device is the same as the first option. The only difference is the dimensions. Therefore, it is installed in large manufacturing plants or large houses.
• Membrane type design. The principle of operation of the device is based on changing the position of the plate due to the influence of air flow. The equipment is widely used in places with natural ventilation, since there is no need to exert a strong impact on the main element.

These are not the only differences; there are also models:

• With manual control, the device is installed in large enterprises where there is high air movement. Automatic products operate without user intervention; this option is more suitable for installation at home.
• They differ in the installation method. There are horizontal and vertical options.
• There are round and rectangular products. To choose the right option, it is important to understand that the shape depends entirely on the characteristics of the cross-sectional size of the air channel.
• Bandwidth is also taken into account. It all depends on the volume of air that passes through the valve.
• The last difference is the material of manufacture. Plastic ones are suitable for installation in houses and apartments, as they make less noise during operation. For office buildings and manufacturing plants, it is recommended to install metal products. They are larger in size and have high throughput.

Recommendations for selection

The return element is selected depending on the ventilation scheme and installation location:

1. To connect a kitchen hood, use a gravity-action flapper that matches the shape of the air duct. The purpose of this valve is to maintain natural air exchange during fan inactivity.
2. A grille with a membrane valve (homemade or factory-made) is placed in the opening of the exhaust shaft if the draft is overturned by gusts of wind. It is better to get rid of odors using another method - installing wall supply valves to resume normal air exchange.
3. In private houses, the local exhaust duct is often laid directly through the external wall. To prevent cold air from being blown into the ventilation duct by the wind, install a multi-leaf exhaust grille outside.

Options for supplying fresh air to rooms using supply equipment
In mechanical ventilation systems with forced air supply, valves are used according to the diagram and specification drawn up by the designer. We do not recommend developing such an air exchange yourself - mistakes cannot be avoided, and the cost of alterations will be too high.

Advice. For installation inside rooms, buy inexpensive plastic products. Galvanization looks ugly; pipes and other ventilation parts will have to be covered with plasterboard.

How to choose the right equipment?

In order for the check valve to last as long as possible, you need to know some features of the choice. The first thing that is taken into account is the maximum air flow speed that is present inside the channel. It should be remembered that the blades must open even under slight pressure. Because this is the only way to ensure effective elimination. Some models are equipped with a return fan, which increases the valve operation. Power is selected only based on the area of ​​the room.

Also important is the ambient temperature. Single-leaf devices are not able to cope with negative temperatures, so they will not be effective. To vent air outside, it is necessary to install a “blind” type check valve. It withstands low temperatures and does not break down over time.

The installation features are also taken into account. Because there are models that need to be placed only at a certain angle. There are also universal versions that can be installed in any way.

The cost of the structure usually comes in last place, since it has little effect on anything. It is better to look at the main parameters: type of section, dimensions, what material was used in production, etc.

Troubles that may arise

The use of this device has disadvantages:

1. Natural is disrupted , which can lead to unpredictable consequences.
2. During operation, noise is created that can create discomfort. It intensifies in those cases. When the direction of air movement changes and frequent switching occurs.

Experts do not give a definite answer about that. Is it correct to use such valves? In order to ensure reliable ventilation, it must be thought out and made in such a way that it works properly without additional devices. However, this method is expensive and not available to everyone. Using a check valve in this case is a more convenient way to solve the problem.

Is it possible to make a valve with your own hands?

There are often cases when an apartment or house has a ventilation duct of unusual shape or size. Then not a single market offer will suit a person and he must make the device with his own hands. This solution will cost several times less than a custom-made product. Creating this design will require a minimum of time and effort.

The first thing it is important to decide on is the type of ventilation. If natural is present, then it is best to make a membrane-type device, but single-leaf products are also suitable. For the last option, you need to choose a hard material. It is also necessary to pay attention to some points:

• The plate should not have gaps, even small ones. It is best if it fits tightly to the walls so that cracks cannot form.
• If the air flow often changes direction, it is necessary to ensure that the knocking of the plate is minimal or completely absent, otherwise it will be impossible to sleep at night and concentrate on rest during the day.

To create blades, it is better to use high-quality materials, for example, Mylar film. It is sold in all construction stores at an affordable price. The diameter of the element should not exceed the dimensions of the ventilation duct. To prevent the blade from deteriorating during reverse thrust, it is recommended to install a plastic grill. This is the most practical and durable option.

Purpose of ventilation dampers

This problem is especially typical for kitchens, bathrooms and bathrooms. Here you cannot do without special design elements - ventilation dampers.

In addition to eliminating reverse draft, the damper can solve a number of related problems:

• Eliminates drafts.
• Prevents insects from entering from the ventilation shaft.
• Reduces dust concentration.

Another important function of ventilation dampers is to provide fire protection by preventing the spread of open fire and combustion products through the ducts of the ventilation system.

Correct installation

The check valve can be installed either at the beginning of the ventilation duct or at the end. To do this, you need to drill holes for fastening, but before that it is important to make the correct markings. To do this, the device housing is installed in the air duct pipe.

After drilling, the check valve is installed; it is better to use dowels. When performing this operation, it should be remembered that there should be no gaps; even if they appear, they must be sealed with a special sealant on any basis. The main thing is that it provides reliable and durable adhesion, and also has antifungal properties.

Principle of operation

When using ventilation, air can flow in one or the other direction. So that air can move only in one of them, I close the other with a special valve. The principle of operation is based on the fact that the air, moving back, closes the damper, which prevents its further movement.

valve operating principle

Structurally, the damper can be made in the form of a rotating blade or a petal one . In the normal direction of movement, the obstacle is pressed against the edges, and in the opposite direction, it is installed perpendicularly, closing the hole.

When used, the valve experiences strong aerodynamic resistance. Its design must ensure reliability and stability.

This device is a small piece of pipe. It may have a round or rectangular hole. It must be shaped and sized to match the ventilation hole for which it is intended.

Inside there is a thin rod on which the damper rotates freely. The design is designed in such a way that, in the desired direction of movement, it approaches the edge and does not impede the movement of air.

If the direction changes, the air turns the damper and it closes the hole. Thus, movement occurs only in the right direction.

Rating of the best plastic valves

TiRo Market d-120 OK120

A simple but effective device that will prevent air pollution in the apartment. Made entirely of plastic. Therefore, the user will not hear any extraneous noise during operation. The mounting is convenient, the case is made with high quality and fits tightly to the wall, leaving no gaps. Diameter – 120 mm.

The average price is 270 rubles.

valve TiRo Market d-120 OK120

Advantages:

• Durability;
• Quiet operation;
• Reliability;
• High quality build.

Flaws:

• Not found.

FreeImport AAA3353

Reliable check valve, sold assembled. Provides high-quality ventilation in any room. Even if the air flow is small, the valve will open and eliminate it, so as not to pollute the room with exhaust gases. The design is simple, and installation does not take much time. All holes are marked, so a person just needs to place the device against the wall and mark it.

The average price is 160 rubles.

FreeImport valve AAA3353

Advantages:

• Low cost;
• Efficiency;
• Durability;
• Doesn't make unnecessary noise.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Vent KO 125mm

A simple device that will help remove unpleasant odors from the apartment and also prevent their further formation. The case is made of durable plastic and can withstand light loads. The shutters operate without user intervention and do not make popping noises. Universal diameter suitable for most rooms.

Sold at a price of 300 rubles.

valve Vent KO 125mm

Advantages:

• Beautiful appearance;
• Quickly eliminates odors;
• Good throughput.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Types of filters for ventilation

According to the principle of operation, air filters for ventilation are:

• bulk or absorbent;
• porous.

Absorption bulk filters for air ventilation are filled with gravel, porcelain liners, rubber chips, activated carbon, metal chips or coke. The filler material depends on the purpose of the building.

Porous air filters are created from strips with small holes, fabric or metal mesh. Sometimes they are impregnated with oils.

Porous filters also include fabric filters: cotton or wool.

Air filters have the ability to:

• coarse cleaning – retains particles larger than 10 microns;
• fine cleaning – retains particles of 1 – 10 microns;
• extra fine cleaning – retains particles of 0.1 – 1 micron.

The shape and content of the filter is dictated by its purpose. For example, a metal or impregnated synthetic mesh is suitable for coarse filtration. This filter material is produced in the form of individual inserts or strips.

Fine filters are usually made from fiberglass. They come in pleated, pocket and electrostatic types. A widely used filler is activated carbon, which traps mechanical inclusions, stench, and dangerous gases.

Extra fine filters are made from sheets of special submicron paper glued together or fiberglass.

In medical institutions, kindergartens and schools, combined multifilters are installed that are capable of capturing all types of impurities.

Air filters for ventilation systems are available in the form of cassettes or panels that can be replaced. For convenience, the sizes of the inserts are standard. And the housing is made to match the diameter of the air duct and can be rectangular or round.

Aerosol filters

This is a separate type of air filters for ventilation systems, used in exhaust systems. Aerosol filters prevent the leakage of harmful production products into the atmosphere. They are mainly used in the chemical and nuclear industries.

Aerosol filters provide perfect air purification in the premises of pharmaceutical enterprises and clean shops (where precision microcircuits are produced).

To clean air in ventilation systems, vortex traps, cyclones, bag filters, and air aqua-washing devices are used as air filters.

Rating of quality models with grilles

Grille with valve from Revizzona LLC

A classic device designed for installation in residential and office premises. The operation is completely silent. The main feature of the design is its tight fit to the walls, which makes it unnecessary to use sealant.

Sold at a price of 500 rubles.

Grille with valve from Revizzona LLC

Advantages:

• Beautiful appearance;
• Good ventilation;
• Tight fit;
• Bandwidth;
• Easy installation.

Flaws:

• Not found.

AURAMAX S 5S S

A beautiful, modern product designed for installation in residential areas. The design includes a fan and a check valve, which increases efficiency significantly and eliminates even minor odors. The product is made of plastic. Provides a tight fit to the wall.

The average price is 1,600 rubles.

valve AURAMAX C 5S C

Advantages:

• Fan and check valve;
• Efficiency;
• Durability;
• Tight fit to the wall.

Flaws:

• High price.

Ventilation grille made of ABS from Revizzona

An excellent product that will purify the air and decorate the room. The grille is equipped with a check valve that is activated at the slightest air fluctuation. Installation does not take much time and can be carried out by an ordinary person.

Sold at a price of 450 rubles.

Ventilation grille made of ABS from Revizzona

Advantages:

• High service life;
• Works quickly;
• Removes excess odors;
• Doesn't make noise.

Flaws:

• Not detected.

Advantages and disadvantages

The supply valve has a number of positive qualities:

• there is no need to constantly open/close the window (the service life of the fittings is extended);
• low noise level;
• air flow can be adjusted;
• installation next to a heating radiator or at the top of the wall eliminates temperature fluctuations in winter;
• the device is almost invisible indoors;
• relatively affordable price.

But there are also some disadvantages:

• you need to make a hole in the wall;
• In regions with severe frosts in winter, a regular valve cannot be used; the room will be cold. The problem can be solved by installing a valve with a recuperator;
• errors in installation can result in freezing of the wall or freezing of a certain part of the air duct;
• Low performance of devices without a fan.

Rating of the best models of the “Butterfly” type

ERA 12SKTs 120mm

A classic product that is suitable for installation in public places or at home. The flaps operate at low pressure, which facilitates rapid removal of air. For greater efficiency, the blades are equipped with special springs. Fastening is carried out using clamps. A damper seal ring is located inside the structure.

The average cost is 275 rubles.

valve ERA 12SKTs 120mm

Advantages:

• Long service life;
• Reliability;
• Spring-loaded blades;
• Sealing ring;
• Easy installation.

Flaws:

• Not detected.

Shuft RSK 100

A universal device that can be placed anywhere, including outdoors. Withstands temperatures down to -40 degrees and is not subject to corrosion. The body is made of high quality steel, which is covered with a protective layer. To prevent the blades from knocking while moving, there is a rubber seal that absorbs all noise.

Sold at a price of 290 rubles.

valve Shuft RSK 100

Advantages:

• Durability;
• High-quality case;
• Does not make noise;
• Optimal price.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Polar Bear RSK 355 "butterfly"

A good valve that operates automatically and does not make much noise. The body is made of galvanized steel. Behind the blades there is a damper ring that absorbs excess noise and does not distract a person from work. The valve can be installed in any position, which is a big advantage.

Sold at a price of 1,280 rubles.

Polar Bear RSK 355 butterfly valve

Advantages:

• High service life;
• Reliability;
• Automatic adjustment;
• Tight fit;
• The blades are made of aluminum.

Flaws:

• High price.

Filters for ventilation

The quality of atmospheric air supplied to buildings by ventilation systems is often unsatisfactory. To protect people's health, it is necessary to purify the supply air. At production enterprises it is often necessary to filter exhaust air saturated with mechanical and chemical impurities.

The air is purified by air filters for ventilation. Filters are always installed in ventilation systems of industrial enterprises, office complexes, medical centers, and modern residential buildings.

TOP 3 models for production sites

TEKHNOTSENTR LLC general industrial valve 150x150

A reliable device that is designed to remove large volumes of contaminated air. Adjustment is carried out manually using a special handle. Thanks to this solution, the product can be installed in one position, which contributes to good ventilation of the room.

The average price is 16,300 rubles.

TEKHNOTSENTR LLC general industrial valve 150x150

Advantages:

• Simple controls;
• High throughput;
• Durable housing;
• Reliability.

Flaws:

• High price.

Production valve KOP from TD "COMTECH"

An excellent option that is suitable for installation in large rooms. The body is made of durable material that is not subject to corrosion. Adjustment is carried out using a special lever.

Average price – 1,200 rubles

valve Production valve KOP from TD "COMTECH"

Advantages:

• Durability;
• High-quality execution;
• Removes air quickly;
• Optimal cost;
• Convenient controls.

Flaws:

• Not found.

TCOG-05-250x500 from Vympel LLC

An excellent valve that will help organize proper ventilation of the room and eliminate toxic and unpleasant odors in a few minutes. The body is made of a thick layer of metal, which increases durability and increases the reliability of the device.

Sold at a price of 8,800 rubles.

valve ТКОГ-05-250х500 from Vympel LLC

Advantages:

• Efficiency;
• Quickly removes contaminated air;
• Lasting;
• Easy adjustment.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Advice from the experts

Wall-mounted models are recommended for installation during the construction of walls, but they can also be installed in finished premises. It is not recommended to install window valves yourself - it is easy to break the tightness of the window frames and lose the manufacturer's warranty service. However, the most important thing is to choose the right type of additional ventilation you need. Poorly selected models can clog the natural ventilation system of rooms, overturn it, or create uncomfortable conditions due to the additional noise of the operating fan.