With the new Part L set to challenge ventilation strategies, two new control systems offer solutions.

With Part L of the Ðǿմ«Ã½ Regulations set to take force in 2006 the need to reduce CO2 emissions is increasing. A balance must be found in providing good air quality and preventing damp while not over-ventilating properties - a subject dealt with in Part F of the Regulations.

West Energy Saving Technologies has developed two precise ventilation controllers that monitor conditions in a property and trigger ventilation equipment when it's needed. The Cookermiser 2 is intended for installation in kitchens. This works by sensing the flow of electricity to a cooker or hob, automatically activating the fan when this is switched on.

The Showermiser is the bathroom version of the product. This operates by sensing the temperature of the hot water pipe to the shower, again automatically switching on the fan on demand when the room is likely to become humid.

Both controllers sense when the cooking and showering has finished, turning the ventilation off. By controlling the systems in this way excessive use of ventilation is removed. This results in lower running costs, an increased lifecycle for the fans and it will be easier to meet the new Regulations.