Reimagining Ventilation: How integrated systems solve space, safety and sustainability challenges

Having one product for each issue is not an effective method, there is no rhyme or reason for it, and it will not benefit your building for the long-term. In fact, this fragmented approach leads to: 

• Overcomplicated installations 
• Wasted space in ceilings 
• Higher energy bills due to inefficient airflow control 
• Manual fire damper testing, which is time-consuming and prone to error 
• Difficulty meeting ESG and EPBD requirements  

This is no way a building should be managed and recent updates in EPBD will look to enforce stricter methods to ensure buildings meet compliancy. 
 
Introducing a smarter approach – Compact, multi-function ventilation units 

Modern HVAC design calls for consolidation without compromise. That’s why more specifiers and contractors are turning to multi-functional ventilation units that combine:

• Variable Air Volume (VAV) control 
• Fire-rated damper functionality  
• Integrated silencers  
• Built-in automatic testing systems 
• Demand controlled ventilation capabilities 

These systems are not only easier to install and maintain, but they also support faster construction timelines, lower lifecycle costs, and improve indoor air quality. 
 
 
Why does this all matter for modern buildings 

Whether you’re working on a hospital, office, school, hotel, care home or residential development; the benefits of an integrated ventilation system are clear: 

1. Space Efficiency – An integrated ventilation system allows for up to 50% less space required compared most traditional setups. This makes it ideal for more modular construction and any areas where space is important 
    
2. Fire Safety Compliance – Meeting this compliance is essential for any building and having an automated fire damper testing on site ensures ongoing compliance. Our OPTIVENT® UltraSafe system, for example, is officially certified in EI 60 S or E 120 S 
    
3. Energy and Cost Savings – A demand-controlled ventilation reduces fan energy use by adjusting airflow based on real-time needs. You will find that an ultrasonic airflow measurement is often employed in advanced HVAC systems. This allows you to monitor and control the volume of air moving through ventilation ducts, which ensures accuracy and low pressure drops. You can reduce combined product and installation costs by up to €300 per unit compared to traditional multi-component systems 
    
4. Improved Indoor Air Quality – With real-time airflow control this helps the system adapt to changing demands based on occupancy and CO2 levels, allowing for a comfortable indoor environment. Integrated silencers also help to reduce noise levels for better occupancy, and all of this helps support healthy building certifications. 
    

Future-Proofing Ventilation for ESG and EPBD Compliance

 
With the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) tightening standards and ESG reporting in companies becoming a priority for businesses, HVAC systems must do more than just move air. They must: 

• Reduce carbon emissions 
• Support digital monitoring and automation 
• Enable long-term operational efficiency 

Integrated systems like OPTIVENT® UltraSafe are designed to meet these goals in mind – helping building owners and designers stay ahead of regulations while delivering positive outcomes for occupants.