Floor fans and a dehumidifier are additional options that may help keep a basement adequately ventilated. Another option is to install exhaust fans that connect to vents located throughout the basement. These fans can be permanently installed in windows or might require cutting through a basement wall to install.
How do you air out a finished basement?
How to Air Out a Basement
- Step 1: Use an Air Purifier (Works With or Without Windows) The reason your basement feels so stuffy and/or stale is because the air doesn’t move through the space as it should. …
- Step 2: Open the Windows (Requires Windows) …
- Step 3: Add a Dehumidifier (Works With or Without Windows)
How do I get more airflow in my basement?
You can use a fan in front of the window to push air out of the basement. Even better, try pairing fans on opposite sides of the basement to get even more airflow. Another option is to install exhaust fans throughout the basement, each with a humidity sensor that allows it to automatically turn on and off.
Is ventilation required in a basement?
Building regulations require the provision of ventilation to all basements (heated or unheated) to adequately control moisture vapour, be it generated internally or brought through from the structure.
What is fresh air vent in basement?
Mechanical ventilation uses fans and vents to exhaust existing basement air and bring in fresh, outdoor air. This type of system may be as simple as placing small window fans in opposite windows or as technical as installing an exhaust fan with ventilation pipe.
How many air vents should a basement have?
A general rule of thumb is that there is one vent for every 300 sq. Ft of basement area if the basement has been treated with a vapor barrier/damp sealer.
How do I keep my basement from smelling musty?
Place bowls of baking soda around the basement. The baking soda will begin to absorb the odors and should make a significant difference over the course of a few days. You can also use bowls of white vinegar or clean cat litter—both will absorb odors as well.
Should you open windows in basement?
Always Shut Basement Windows
It could mean downtime and disruption to your normal life. Moisture buildup can also damage your floor covering and insulation. Your air conditioner will suck this moist air through the subfloor. When this air gets into the rest of the house, it will warp your wood floors too.
How do you ventilate a basement in the winter?
Close External Vents
If they are left open, then cold, unconditioned air will be free to flow into your home. Cold air likes to sink, so it will mostly stay in your basement once let in through the external vents.
Should I keep basement vents open in winter?
Air vents should be open to prevent damage
Increased air pressure can create cracks and holes in the ductwork. It can also cause your furnace’s heat exchanger to crack. Leave all air vents open to prevent extensive damage to your home’s heating system this winter.
Is it OK to close air vents in basement?
You can safely close your basement air vents in the summer, yes. You’ll want to do so intermittently, though, instead of leaving them closed for several weeks at a time. If you consistently want to keep your vents closed, be sure to rotate which vents you shut at least every two days.
When should basement vents be open and closed?
These vents allow outside air to circulate under the floor in summer to prevent the moisture buildup that encourages mildew and rot. In winter, when the air is drier, the vents are closed to reduce the chance that the pipes in the crawl space might freeze.
