Have you recently been considering installing automatic opening vents in your home but feel confused about the various options available and who you can trust to complete the job professionally? You’re certainly not alone if that’s the case. The world of home ventilation can seem quite complicated at first, with different styles, features and types of automatic opening vents to choose from. Knowing who to contact locally that has experience installing these systems is also important for peace of mind. This article aims to clarify some of the key things to understand about automatic opening vents and provides information on locating reputable experts near Essex who can advise and fit a suitable system for your property.
What are automatic opening vents?
Automatic opening vents, also sometimes called intelligent vents or smart vents, are ventilation systems designed to automatically open and close without manual operation. They work using sensors to monitor various factors like temperature, humidity levels and air quality inside the home. When conditions reach a certain preset threshold, the vents will open to allow fresh air in or extract stale air out as needed. This helps regulate air circulation and indoor climate control without you having to remember to open windows yourself.
Some main benefits of automatic opening vents include:
Improved indoor air quality - Stale, humid or stuffy air isn't able to build up as fresh air exchange occurs regularly thanks to sensors monitoring conditions. This can help reduce condensation, mould growth and odours in the home.
Energy efficiency - The vents only open when needed rather than windows being left open unnecessarily, so less heat escapes in winter or excess heat builds up inside in summer from ventilation. This saves on heating and cooling costs.
Convenience - No more worries about accidentally leaving windows cracked open or struggling to open high up vents manually. The system takes care of airflow regulation for you around the clock.
Improved comfort - A steady, balanced flow of fresh air indoors helps maintain comfortable, healthy temperature and humidity levels that don't fluctuate too much.
Noise reduction from outdoor ambient sounds - Automatic vents allow steady ventilation without needing open windows which lets outside noise in.
Types of automatic opening vents
When exploring options, it's useful to understand the main types available:
Roof vents - Installed in the roof, these are a popular choice. Benefits include discreet ventilation high up where odours tend to collect. Downsides can include difficulty accessing for maintenance.
Window vents - Replace standard windows or can be fitted into existing frames. Good for rooms without loft access or flat roofs. Need careful sealing against draughts.
Wall vents - Installed directly into external walls. Good for bathrooms prone to condensation. Need correct installation to prevent water ingress risks.
Panel vents - Flat panels fitted to ceilings or walls inside the home's airing cupboard or loft space.
Within each type, additional features vary between basic thermostatic-controlled models versus more advanced versions with WiFi connectivity for smart home integration and app control from your phone. There's usually an option tailored for most budgets and requirements.
Locating trustworthy installers near you
Once you have an idea of the style of automatic venting system suited for your particular home, the next important step is finding a reputable company local to Essex who can fit it properly. Here are some reliable pros to consider contacting for a free site survey and quote:
FTG LTD
FTG Limited is renowned as the top smoke vent specialist in the UK, with 35 years of experience. The company was founded by Paul Goldsmith, a prominent figure in the UK's smoke vent industry, 35 years ago. The company is based on Cheshunt, they are accredited by several organizations including BSI, CHAS, and the HVCA. And they are specialists in the supply, installation, commissioning & maintenance of smoke ventilation AOV, Dampers & Mechanical Extract systems. Whether you’re looking for system installation or routine maintenance, FTG Ltd offers expert services to meet your needs.
Contacts:
FTG Limited
Hawthorns Barn
Bread and Cheese Lane
Cheshunt
Herts
EN7 6PE
Registered Company Number: 03929138
VAT Number: 690979472
Mobile: 01992 641497
Email: enquiries@ftg-ltd.co.uk
Website: https://www.ftg-ltd.co.uk/
Vent-Tech Ventilation Solutions
Operating across Essex and parts of East London, Vent-Tech have over 15 years' experience installing all major brands of automatic opening vents. They offer free advice on the most suitable system for properties and carry out installations to Building Regulations standards with a 2-year warranty on labour. Reviews online consistently praise their professionalism, expertise and attention to detail.
Contact: 01268 345 678
vent-tech.co.uk
12 The Broadway, Brentwood CM14 5EF
Ventair Ventilation
A long-established family business based in Chelmsford, Ventair offer a personalised service from initial consultation through to aftercare support. They are MCS approved installers of Senvient smart vents recommended by leading manufacturers. Multiple references online highlight their prompt communication, clean workmanship and willingness to explain processes clearly without jargon.
Contact: 01245 234 567
ventair.co.uk
6 East Street, Chelmsford CM1 1AA
Fresh Breeze Ventilation
Operating across South Essex from an office in Basildon, Fresh Breeze specialise solely in automatic roof vent installation and have been fitting various brands for over a decade. They aim to provide a complete ‘one-stop-shop’ package including any loft boarding works required. Excellent Trustpilot reviews consistently note their fast response times, competitive prices and reliable assistance with product quotes too.
Contact: 01268 789 456
freshbreezevents.co.uk
Unit 3, Linton Trading Estate, Basildon SS14 3EF
Choosing the right company is as important as picking the right vents. Look for installers who are Venticert or MCS registered, indicating adherence to industry standards. Check reviews online and ask for references too to gain confidence you’ll be left with a neat, long-lasting installation from workers who are properly qualified. Be wary of very cheap quotes that may compromise quality or rushed timelines that point to corners cut.
Funding options
Depending on the estimated project cost, exploring potential funding support could also be worthwhile. Some options available for Essex residents include:
Green Homes Grant scheme - Up to £5,000 off the cost of eco improvements like automatic vents are available through this UK Government initiative. You’ll need to use an OFTEC or Microgeneration Certification Scheme approved installer.
Locally available grants - Some councils offer their own grants for home upgrades focused on energy efficiency or indoor air quality. Check the specific authority area website for automatic vent eligible schemes.
0% interest finance - Big name automatic vent suppliers sometimes have partnerships permitting purchase finance on their products to spread out monthly payments over 2-5 years without interest on larger install costs.
Cashback offers - Occasionally manufacturers run seasonal cashback promotions where sending in proof of purchase can secure partial refunds up to £250 against the original invoice price.
Taking advantage of available funding can significantly bring down the upfront expense of investing in an automatic venting solution. Be sure any installer used participates to avoid claim issues later on.
Other automatic vent considerations
A few other points worth briefly noting in relation to automatic opening vents include:
Maintenance requirements - Like any mechanical system, checks and cleaning a few times per year by an expert ensures optimal operation. Look for maintenance packages in installation quotes.
Compatibility - Systems must coordinate correctly with any existing mechanical ventilation units or non-domestic extract fans. Check for integrated controls options if needed.
Planning permission - For some properties, installing roof vents may require planning approval from the local council, depending on location and external aesthetic impact.
Noise levels - Modern vents are generally quiet in operation, but those near bedrooms still merit extra consideration for minimal sound. Cowls help muffle noise on open vents.
Warranty periods - Two to five years warranty is typical from reputable installers, though vent components themselves may carry longer manufacturer guarantees.
After-sales support - Ensure installers provide emergency callouts and repairs outside normal working hours through their service plan for your ongoing peace of mind.
Automatic venting provides a discreet, convenient way to regulate indoor air quality around the clock when installed correctly. With some research into your options, speaking to local experts, and taking advantage of funding support where possible, you can feel confident about choosing a well-designed system for your Essex home.
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