Air quality in schools has long been more than just a matter of comfort. It affects learning performance, health and energy consumption in equal measure – and thus determines the quality of teaching and the sustainable operation of buildings.
Traditional window ventilation quickly reaches its limits. Within just 20 minutes, CO₂ levels in a fully occupied classroom can rise to critical levels. Heating energy escapes unused, while pollutants linger in the air. Modern school ventilation systems offer a reliable, efficient, and comfortable solution.
Why school ventilation is more important than ever
In times of climate protection, energy efficiency and increased awareness of infection control, the topic of school ventilation is becoming increasingly important. Modern school ventilation systems must do more than just bring fresh air into classrooms. They combine ecological responsibility, economic efficiency and health benefits – making them a key factor in creating sustainable learning conditions.
Environment: Saving energy and protecting the climate
Decentralized ventilation units with heat recovery prevent energy loss, reduce CO₂ emissions and actively contribute to local climate protection. Instead of releasing heat unused to the outside, it remains within the system – an important contribution to making schools more sustainable.
Costs: Efficiency pays off
Energy-efficient school ventilation means lower operating costs. LTG systems such as the FVS Eco₂School series operate according to demand, significantly reduce heating costs and impress with their durable components and low maintenance requirements. For operators, this represents an investment that pays off in the long term.
Health: Ensuring concentration and well-being
Fresh, filtered air lowers CO₂ levels, reduces pollen and fine dust, and ensures optimal humidity. This increases concentration, prevents fatigue and headaches, and reduces absences due to illness – a win-win for students and teachers alike.
Scientifically proven: The Olis study
The Olis study conducted by the University of Stuttgart confirms that mixed displacement ventilation is particularly well suited for classrooms. It ensures an even supply of fresh air and effectively reduces pollutant concentrations.
A practical example can be found at the Philipp-Matthäus-Hahn Grammar School in Leinfelden-Echterdingen, where FVS Eco²School units were installed. The results speak for themselves:
- Constant CO₂ levels below 1,000 ppm
- Up to 75 % energy savings through heat recovery,
- Significant reduction of pollen and fine dust
- Flexible control via sensors or timer programmes
This clearly shows that school ventilation not only increases comfort but also measurably improves learning conditions.
LTG FVS Eco²School – A brief introduction to decentralized school ventilation
How does modern school ventilation work in practice? This video provides a concise overview of the FVS Eco²School – a decentralized ventilation system that provides fresh air, saves heating energy and provides sustainable support for everyday teaching.
The basics of school ventilation in detail
Fresh air in the classroom means much more than just opening the windows regularly. The quality of indoor air depends on several factors, each of which directly influences concentration, health and well-being:
1. CO₂ concentration
The carbon dioxide level is the most important indicator of “stale” air. Concentration begins to drop noticeably once levels exceed 1,000 ppm, while values above 2,000 ppm can cause fatigue, headaches, and reduced performance. In a fully occupied classroom, these levels are often reached after just 20 minutes.
2. Humidity
A relative humidity of between 40 and 60 per cent is considered ideal. If the air is too dry (below 30 per cent), mucous membranes become irritated and pathogens can spread more easily. If humidity is too high (above 70 per cent), the risk of mould growth and an unpleasant indoor climate increases.
3. Pollutants and particles
In addition to CO₂, enclosed spaces can accumulate fine dust, volatile organic compounds, and allergenic particles. These may originate from furniture, cleaning agents, printers, or outdoor air. Such substances can cause irritation and long-term health problems.
4. Temperature
For a comfortable learning environment, the room temperature should remain around 20–22 °C. If it is too warm, performance declines rapidly; if it is too cold, comfort suffers. A well-designed school ventilation system must therefore interact with the heating control to balance comfort and energy efficiency.
Ventilation methods in schools
When we think about ventilation, many people immediately picture an open classroom window. Indeed, this is the oldest and simplest way to let in fresh air. But is it really enough when 25 pupils and a teacher spend hours together in the same room?
Window ventilation
Shock ventilation or cross ventilation generally works well, especially in buildings with large windows. The disadvantage is that it quickly gets cold in winter and often does little to cool the room in summer. Windows are not always large enough or even openable. In addition, the effect depends heavily on the behaviour of the teachers. Those who forget to ventilate in good time quickly risk stale air.
Mechanical ventilation
Modern ventilation systems automatically provide fresh air that is filtered and controlled according to demand. One example of this is the LTG FVS Eco₂School series, which was developed specifically for classrooms. It provides a constant supply of fresh air, filters pollen and dust, and uses heat recovery to save on heating costs. This keeps the air quality stable without anyone having to think about ventilation.
Mobile air purifiers
In some classrooms where ventilation is difficult to implement, mobile air purifiers can be helpful. They filter particles and aerosols, but do not reduce CO₂ levels. They are therefore a supplement, but not a substitute for functioning mechanical ventilation.
Planning, operation and control of ventilation
Effective ventilation does not happen automatically. It must be carefully planned, properly operated, and continuously controlled to ensure that air quality in classrooms remains consistently high throughout the school day.
Sizing and air volume
The first step is to calculate how much fresh air is needed per pupil per hour. In fully occupied classrooms, this can be several hundred cubic metres of air per hour. The ventilation system must be designed to reliably meet this demand and ensure air quality at all times.
Operating concepts for everyday school use
The ventilation schedule should be adapted to the school timetable:
- During lessons, a continuous air exchange is required to keep CO₂ levels stable.
- During breaks, short and intensive ventilation helps to refresh the room air quickly.
- In the evening and at night, ventilation can be reduced to save energy while still removing residual pollutants.
Sensors and automatic control
CO₂ sensors or volume flow controllers ensure that ventilation operates according to demand. This means that only as much air as necessary is exchanged. This saves energy and at the same time ensures a healthy indoor climate.
Comfort and energy efficiency
In addition to air quality, temperature and noise levels also play an important role. Well-designed ventilation ensures that pupils do not feel cold or are disturbed by noisy equipment, while heating energy is used efficiently.
Hygiene and maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential to keep filters clean and ensure the system operates reliably. This is the only way to guarantee consistently high air quality over the long term.
Planning, control and standards
Effective school ventilation requires careful dimensioning, tailor-made operating concepts and intelligent control. Sensors ensure that only as much air as necessary is exchanged – for maximum efficiency and consistently good air quality.
Relevant guidelines such as DIN EN 16798-1, VDI 6022 and VDI 3804 specify the binding requirements for fresh air volumes and hygiene standards. Modern LTG systems reliably meet these requirements, ensuring a healthy indoor climate for students and teachers.
Conclusion: Air quality as a learning booster
Efficient school ventilation combines three key advantages: environmental protection, cost efficiency and health. With solutions such as the LTG FVS Eco₂School series, schools can create a learning environment that remains fresh, energy-efficient and healthy – providing the foundation for bright minds and sustainable education.