Displacement Ventilation
Displacement ventilation delivers cool air at low velocity near the floor so it rises naturally as it warms. This creates a stratified airflow where cleaner, cooler air stays in the occupied zone while warmer air and contaminants rise to the ceiling for exhaust.
💡 Key Takeaways
- ✓Displacement ventilation delivers cool air at low velocity near the floor so it rises naturally as it warms. This creates a stratified airflow where cleaner, cooler air stays in the occupied zone while warmer air and contaminants rise to the ceiling for exhaust.
- ✓Works best in tall spaces with low‑level heat loads.
- ✓Requires careful diffuser placement and airflow design.
- ✓May need more floor area for low‑level diffusers.
Displacement Ventilation
/dɪsˈpleɪsmənt ˌvɛntɪˈleɪʃən/
Definition
Displacement ventilation delivers cool air at low velocity near the floor so it rises naturally as it warms. This creates a stratified airflow where cleaner, cooler air stays in the occupied zone while warmer air and contaminants rise to the ceiling for exhaust.
How does displacement ventilation work?
It supplies cool air at floor level so it rises as it warms, keeping clean air where people breathe.
Source: The Cooling Company
Quick Facts
How Displacement Ventilation Works
Displacement ventilation keeps fresh air in the breathing zone.
Real-World Application
Large spaces like auditoriums or airports use displacement ventilation to improve air quality and comfort with less fan energy.
Pro Tip
Place heat sources and furniture carefully so low‑level air can rise without short‑circuiting to exhaust.
“Place heat sources and furniture carefully so low‑level air can rise without short‑circuiting to exhaust.”
Important Things to Keep in Mind
- Works best in tall spaces with low‑level heat loads.
- Requires careful diffuser placement and airflow design.
- May need more floor area for low‑level diffusers.
Did You Know?
Displacement ventilation has been used in Scandinavia for decades for energy‑efficient comfort.
FAQ
Is displacement ventilation better than mixing ventilation?
It can be for large spaces, offering better air quality and lower fan energy when designed properly.
Does displacement ventilation work in small rooms?
It’s less common in small rooms due to diffuser space needs and limited stratification.
Can displacement ventilation reduce HVAC energy use?
Yes. It often uses lower supply airflow and higher supply temperatures to save energy.
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