How to install wall penetration for extractors?

# How to install wall penetration for extractors?

Installing a wall penetration for an air extractor is a crucial step to ensure effective ventilation that complies with current standards. This operation, although technical, can be successfully carried out by following a precise methodology and using the appropriate tools. This detailed guide will walk you through the different stages of installation, with a focus on regulatory aspects, precautions to be taken and best practices to ensure safe and sustainable installation.

An exhaust wall penetration is a duct that allows the exhaust air of a room to be evacuated to the outside. It is essential for maintaining optimal air quality, especially in damp rooms such as bathrooms, kitchens or laundry rooms. The wall feed-through kit is compatible with all aerators with a diameter of 100 mm and can be installed from inside the housing, simplifying the installation process.

# Preparation before installation

Before embarking on wall drilling to integrate a flush-mounted box, it is essential to prepare the location well and choose the right tools. This preparation minimizes errors and ensures an accurate result that complies with current electrical standards. 

Preparation is an essential step before making a wall break for an air extractor. Careful planning and due diligence ensure an efficient, standard-compliant and long-lasting installation. Here are the aspects to consider for successful preparation.

Needs analysis and location selection

First, identify precisely the room that needs ventilation and determine the best position for the extractor and the wall penetration. The ideal location should allow direct exhaust of stale air to the outside, while minimizing obstacles such as wall reinforcements, cables or existing conduits. For example, in a bathroom, the extractor is usually placed above the shower or bathtub to optimize moisture wicking.

Also make sure that the wall chosen is compatible with the construction of penetration: a load bearing or very thick wall will require suitable tools, such as a high-capacity hole saw or a core drill.

Verification of regulations and standards

The construction of a wall crossing must comply with local standards, in particular the NF DTU 24.1 standard, which governs work related to ducts and bushings. Although this standard mainly concerns chimneys, it gives valuable indications on the safety, insulation and tightness of bushings. In addition, check the regulations relating to extractors, which often impose minimum distances between the air outlet and openings (windows, doors) to prevent the return of stale air into the home.

Selection of tools and materials
 

Successful preparation relies on choosing the right tools and materials. 
Here are the essentials for quality installation:

• Wall Feed-Through Kit: Choose a model that is compatible with the diameter of your extractor (usually 100 or 125 mm). Kits often include an outer grille to protect the air outlet.
• Drill with hole saw or core drill: adapted to the material of the wall (brick, concrete, plasterboard, etc.), it must allow a precise and clean cut.
• Tape measure, pencil and spirit level: for exact measurements and aligned tracing.
• Sealant: to guarantee thermal insulation and prevent any water or air infiltration.
• Screws, Plugs and Fasteners: To securely attach the extractor and outer grille.

Checking the work area
Before drilling, inspect the area using a material detector to locate electrical cables, water or gas lines. This prevents damage to critical building elements during work. This is especially important in renovations where installation plans may be incomplete or outdated.

Preparing the workspace
Protect surrounding surfaces with tarps or cardboard to prevent dust and debris generated during drilling from soiling or damaging the space. If you work indoors, make sure to ventilate the room well during and after work to evacuate fine particles. Also remember to wear personal protective equipment (glasses, gloves, dust mask) to ensure your safety.
By taking these precautions and making sure you have all the necessary tools on hand, you ensure an efficient installation with no surprises. Good preparation is the secret to clean, safe and sustainable work.

Installation steps
Installing a wall feed-through for an air extractor requires a methodical approach and the use of the right tools to ensure efficient and compliant installation.

1. Location Marking : Using a tape measure and spirit level, identify and mark the precise location where the duct will pass through the wall. Make sure this location allows for direct evacuation to the outside without obstacles.

2. Drilling the wall

Drill bit : To drill through reinforced concrete or other resistant materials, use a hammer drill equipped with the Maxter4 concrete drill bit from TIVOLY. This drill bit, featuring an SDS Max shank, is designed for deep, large-diameter drilling, providing optimal dust evacuation thanks to its high-volume flute profile. 

Drilling : Positioning the drill bit perpendicular to the wall, begin drilling by applying constant pressure. The four-bit design of the Maxter4 ensures fast progress and reduces the risk of jamming, even in reinforced concrete.

3. Installation of the wall feed-through

Inserting the Duct : Insert the through duct into the drilled hole, making sure it is properly aligned and protrudes slightly outward to allow for the grid to be attached.

Sealing : Apply a sealant around the duct, inside and out, to prevent unwanted water or air infiltration.

4. Attaching the extractor and the outer grid

Inside : attach the extractor to the wall according to the manufacturer's instructions, using screws and plugs adapted to the type of wall.

Outside : Install the protective grille over the duct, making sure it is securely attached and prevents the entry of debris or insects.

5. Electrical connections : connect the extractor to the electrical circuit in accordance with current safety standards. It is recommended that you hire a qualified electrician for this step to ensure a compliant and safe installation.

Additional Considerations

To ensure a successful and long-lasting installation of an air extractor wall feedthrough, it is essential to pay attention to some often overlooked, but crucial elements. These considerations include insulation, waterproofing and regular maintenance of the system.

1. Insulation and waterproofing: essential priorities

When installing wall penetration, good insulation and impeccable sealing are fundamental. These elements not only ensure the proper functioning of the extractor, but also the preservation of the energy efficiency of your home. Indeed, a poorly insulated or poorly sealed duct can lead to significant heat loss, water infiltration, or even unwanted drafts.

• Sealant and insulating strips: The use of a suitable sealant around the duct, inside and outside, is essential to prevent moisture from entering the walls. To reinforce this insulation, specific strips or silicone gaskets can be applied to fill the residual gaps between the duct and the wall.
• Insulating materials: If the wall penetration is made in a wall exposed to significant climatic variations, consider surrounding the duct with an insulating material. This not only protects against the cold or heat outside but also reduces the propagation of noises generated by the extractor, thus improving acoustic comfort inside the house.

Well-thought-out insulation and sealing can extend the life of your system while avoiding costly repairs in the medium term.

2. Regular maintenance for optimal performance

Regular maintenance of the entire ventilation system, including the wall penetration, is crucial to ensure its proper long-term operation. The buildup of dust, debris, or moisture can reduce the effectiveness of the extractor and, in some cases, compromise the air quality in the room.

• Cleaning the filters and extractor: The extractor should be cleaned periodically, especially its filters, to prevent them from becoming clogged. This ensures a constant flow of air and prevents the engine from overheating, thus extending its service life.
• Inspect the exterior grille: Check the exterior grille regularly to make sure it is not clogged with leaves, insects, or other debris. A clogged grille can significantly reduce the efficiency of exhaust air and cause backflow inside.
• Checking for leakage: Over time, waterproofing materials, such as sealant or joints, can deteriorate due to weather conditions or structural movement. Inspect them periodically and replace them if necessary to prevent infiltration.

Rigorous scheduled maintenance not only maximizes your system's performance but also prevents potentially costly issues to fix.