Purge ventilation
Approved Document O: Overheating, published by HM Government in 2021, defines purge ventilation as: ‘Ventilation of rooms or spaces at a relatively high rate to rapidly dilute pollutants and/or disperse water vapour.’
Part O 2021 (England), Technical Guidance, July 2022 – Final Draft, published on the Future Homes Hub, defines Purge Ventilation as: ‘usually defined as ventilation provision intended for the rapid dilution of indoor pollutants such as burnt toast or a steamy shower. Part F states requirements for purge ventilation. Higher ventilation rates may be required to meet overheating mitigation under Part O.’
Approved Document F Volume 1, 2021 edition, defines purge ventilation as: ‘Manually controlled ventilation of rooms or spaces at a relatively high rate to rapidly dilute pollutants and/or disperse water vapour. Purge ventilation may be provided by natural means (e.g. an openable window) or mechanical means (e.g. a fan).’
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
The heritage of nuclear and conventional power stations.
New measures to stop people being ripped off
Government to protect families from cowboy builders and aggressive bailiffs.
New Futurebuild showcase brings an innovation-first approach.
National Planning Policy Framework
Understanding the 2026 changes.
ECA's public affairs priorities
Member consultation opens to shape priorities for 2027 to 2030.
Dutyholder responsibilities from 1 July 2026.
Where performance meets practice
The Building Envelope Stage at UKCW Birmingham.
CIAT publishes briefing on planning reforms.
Leaders in Learning for Practice Network
Call for conservation leaders in learning to register interest in new network.
The importance of early engagement
Construction lessons from the Trillium HealthWorks Experience Centre.
Mayors are to be given planning call in powers
Mayors across England will be able to make the most important planning decisions.
The Master Builder: William Butterfield and his times. Book review.

















