Australia has been experiencing continuously rising temperatures for a long time now. Consumer preferences, driven by the country’s extreme climatic conditions and especially the hot summers, have resulted in greater demand for energy saving solutions that offer maximum functionality.
The increasing dependence on air conditioners is impacting household budgets thanks to higher energy bills. However, there are solutions such as window louvre systems that can reduce this dependence on energy-consuming climate control systems. Window louvres have the ability to deliver versatility and energy efficiency within a climate sensitive design. According to the National Institute of Building Sciences, natural ventilation can save 10-30 per cent in total energy consumption in favourable conditions [1].
“The ventilation provided by louvre systems is reliant on natural forces, and accordingly reduces energy consumption and costs to its users,” says Niels Verhaar, product manager at Doric Products.
“Louvres use external air movement and pressure differences to cool an interior space instead of artificial, mechanical cooling provided by air conditioners.”
Window louvres are effective when they are able to balance the variables that can impact comfort, such as radiant and ambient temperature, humidity and air motion, as well as the activities of the occupants themselves. The balance is achieved through increased circulation and ventilation, by allowing natural breeze to enter an interior space. This not only opens up rooms and entire houses depending on design, but also acts as a form of passive cooling.
Louvres can, therefore, play a significant role in keeping interior spaces cool during warmer months, managing humidity, and reducing condenstation build-up.
“Well-designed louvre systems can also provide window shading and allow users to control natural light levels,” said Verhaar. “When correctly designed, such louvre systems should allow light to enter an interior space while minimising solar heat and damaging UV rays.”
The effectiveness of louvres in interior climate control extends beyond the hot summer months. In winter, weathertight designs can protect against the winter sun, as well as wind and rain. Louvres help regulate indoor air temperature by keeping out cool air during the colder months. This additional functionality allows these window systems to offer year-round comfort in all types of climates.
Louvres also promote health and wellbeing in interior spaces. A Washington State University study determined that proper ventilation is “essential for a comfortable, healthy and productive indoor environment”. The same study also highlighted that natural ventilation can improve indoor air quality by reducing odours, humidity, dampness, and dust and dirt accumulation, all of which can negatively impact on the health of occupants[2].
Doric Ventus louvres
Manufactured by Doric Products using high quality materials and tested to Australian Standards, Doric Ventus louvres offer consumers all of these environmental benefits. Key features include a 100 per cent vent opening; ergonomic handles; non-scratch UV stabilised powder coat finish; ability to withstand Australia’s harsh climate; excellent performance in high temperatures; and fully weathertight design easily resisting wind, rain and other weather events.
Doric Ventus louvre systems can be used for windows as well as to enclose verandas, balconies and the area above balustrades.
The wide range of colours, styles and finishes allows designers to match Ventus louvres to any home, regardless of size, design or aesthetic. They are fully compliant with the fall prevention requirements set out in the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and meet the relevant BCA testing standards.
“A key concern for architects and home builders when considering window options is finding a balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal. Louvres now come in a range of styles and colours, with options to suit any home look. They can also be positioned throughout the home to create natural airflow and reduce temperature extremes, meaning you can create the look and environment you want,” concludes Verhaar.
References:
1. Walker, Andy. “Natural Ventilation.” Whole Building Design Guide.
2. Washington State University. “Good Ventilation is Essential for a Healthy and Efficient Building.” Washington State University Energy Program.
