VENTILATIVE COOLING IN NOISY ENVIRONMENTS: PRACTICAL OPTIONS FOR THE UK

It is only very recently that a proper consideration of the internal acoustic environment when mitigating overheating has started to be taken seriously in the UK. Previously this issue has not been addressed by the various regulatory systems, and developers have been reluctant to pay for what they have seen as an unnecessary consideration. The Association of Noise Consultants has produced the criteria and guidance in its draft Acoustics, Ventilation & Overheating: Residential Design Guide. At this crucial stage in the establishment of new approaches for the construction industry, we are setting out “rules of thumb” with typical options for ventilative cooling in varying external noise environments. We are developing solutions in collaboration with mechanical engineers and product manufacturers that are suitable for UK building typologies. Vents in the external facade are found to present the easiest adoption into current building designs. As acoustic attenuation typically involves airflow resistance, mechanical fans are required to ensure ventilation rates are achieved in noisier environments or where the apartment has single-sided ventilation opportunities.