Eliminating Draughts and Cold Classrooms at De Weidebloem Primary School

09-07-2022 | Air Distribution

A learning environment where children can thrive

De Weidebloem Primary School in Hoogeveen is committed to inspiring education, enabling children to develop to their full potential in a safe and stimulating learning environment. A healthy indoor climate plays an essential role in achieving this.

However, the air distribution in the classrooms was not performing as intended. Pupils experienced draughts and cold spots, causing the ventilation system to be switched off on a regular basis. Far from ideal. Vlint investigated the situation and implemented an air distribution solution that provides fresh air without compromising classroom comfort.

Why indoor air quality matters in schools

A comfortable indoor climate is essential in educational environments. Effective air distribution ensures fresh air is evenly distributed throughout the classroom while preventing draughts, cold spots and stuffy conditions. Poor ventilation or uncomfortable airflows can lead to reduced concentration, headaches and fatigue among both pupils and teachers. Over time, this may even increase sickness absence. A well-designed ventilation and air distribution system therefore contributes directly to a healthier and more comfortable learning environment.

The challenge: draughts and poor air distribution

What was the problem in the classrooms?

Several years ago, ITHO heat recovery ventilation (HRV) units were installed between the structural beams of the school's flat roof. The supply air mainly flowed between these beams, preventing fresh air from reaching the entire classroom evenly.

Pupils sitting directly in the airflow experienced draughts and cold. In some cases, they even had to keep their coats on during lessons. As a result, teachers frequently switched off the ventilation units, reducing the supply of fresh air.

Impact on indoor climate and health

Because the ventilation was regularly switched off, CO₂ levels in the classrooms increased significantly. Measurements showed concentrations between 1,600 and 1,800 ppm, while approximately 1,000 ppm is considered the recommended upper limit for a healthy indoor environment. This explained complaints such as headaches and irritated eyes among pupils and teachers.

The solution: customised air distribution beneath the roof structure

How did Vlint solve the problem?

Vlint carried out an on-site assessment and designed a customised air distribution system tailored to the existing ITHO HRV units and the building's roof construction. The air from the ventilation units is now supplied through woven textile air distribution ducts installed underneath the structural beams instead of between them. As a result, the beams no longer obstruct the airflow, allowing fresh air to spread evenly throughout the classroom.

Why choose textile air distribution ducts?

The woven textile material allows the incoming outdoor air to pass through millions of microscopic openings in a controlled manner. This enables the fresh air to mix immediately with the existing room air, creating uniform air distribution without uncomfortable draughts.

Benefits of textile air distribution ducts

Even air distribution

Air is distributed evenly through perforations.

No draughts or cold spots

The learning environment remains comfortable without cold air currents.

Optimal air mixing

Fresh supply air mixes efficiently with the existing indoor air.

For production facilities

Robust and easy to install in industrial environments.

The result: healthy and comfortable learning

What was achieved in the classrooms?

Thanks to the improved air distribution, the ITHO ventilation units can now operate continuously. The indoor climate has improved significantly, and complaints such as headaches and irritated eyes occur far less frequently.

Jan Bollemaat, property advisor responsible for the building services at De Weidebloem Primary School, is very satisfied with the solution:
“The air distribution system is a valuable improvement to the existing installation. Vlint truly delivered a tailor-made solution.”

Complete project support from start to finish

Bollemaat especially appreciated that Vlint managed the entire process, from inspection and engineering through to design, delivery and installation.
“Vlint investigated the situation on site, engineered the solution and handled both the delivery and installation. As the property advisor, I didn't have to worry about a thing.”

No draughts or cold air currents in classrooms

Even distribution of fresh air

Lower CO₂ levels in classrooms

Greater comfort for pupils and teachers

More effective use of ventilation units

Questions about air distribution in schools or commercial buildings?

Are you experiencing draughts, uneven air distribution or excessive CO₂ levels in classrooms or other commercial buildings? Vlint starts by thoroughly analysing your situation before designing and implementing the most suitable solution. Leave your details using the contact form or get in touch to discuss your project.