Good ventilation is essential to keeping boarding kennels safe, healthy, and efficient. When a ventilation system is not working to its full potential, poor air quality is detrimental to both the animals and kennel operators. When it is working properly, a ventilation system reduces unpleasant odors while reducing the concentration of infectious airborne diseases. There are many critical do’s and don’ts when installing and using kennel ventilation systems, so here are a few tips to help you achieve and maintain an odor-free, clean air environment.
DO’S
- Insulate the building well and weatherstrip the doors and windows. This will lower the heating and cooling energy costs.
- Caulk or secure tightly all openings to the exterior to prevent drafts on the occupants.
- Install an automatic operating ventilation system with Controlled Air Circulation (C.A.C.) to achieve the best air quality for the occupants.
- Install unit heaters of the non-vented variety rated for use indoors.
DON’TS
- Use a residential furnace without a stainless steel or ceramic lined heat exchanger for kennel heating. Ammonia and water will corrode any ferrous metal it contacts.
- Allow leaks or opens to the airstream or the products of combustion (CO, CO2, and H20) can infiltrate into the kennel. An existing residential furnace should be tested by a qualified heating contractor by taking a smoke test of the heat exchanger to check for leaks.
- Install exhaust fans of metal or any other corrosive material. Stainless steel, fiberglass or other materials that are non-corrosive will outlast other materials and are easy to clean and disinfect.
The desired outcome of properly designed and installed ventilation systems is to create a comfortable and safe environment for animals and the people who care for them. If you would like to learn more about the basic components of a ventilation system, fill out our simple contact us form and ask one of the experts at Osborne Pet Supply how you improve the environment of your animal facility.
