The Buoyancy Effect and Natural Ventilation

At Moffitt, we constantly advocate for natural ventilation and roof vents for your buildings. But often, we will hear the argument that either air conditioning will always be superior, or that natural ventilation is not effective. We have one answer that trumps both arguments: The Buoyancy Effect.

What is the Buoyancy Effect?

Buoyancy is the upward thrust of an object from the water. If an object is less dense than the water beneath it, then it will float at the top of the water, constantly bobbing between the water and the force of gravity.

Heat follows the same effect. Heat and humidity contain denser materials than the air outside of a system. So, this is why you will often hear the term: heat rises.

What does it have to do with Natural Ventilation?

Natural ventilation creates air movement that maximizes the efficiency of this principal. By creating a building with a large vent in the ceiling and funneling vents all the way up, the heat will naturally push itself out of the building towards the cooler air.

This creates a cyclonic effect as the stifling air rushes out the top and the cooler air rushes in from the side to fill the empty spaces.

Moffitt Corp

With Moffitt we have been working for several years to create the best products for our customers. Our team works non-stop to provide the best solutions for your facility. If you would like to know more about us, feel free to call today at 1 (800) 474-3267.