18 Designing a ventilation system requires careful consideration. Factors such as the size of the house, the number of birds, and local climate conditions influence design decisions. Regular maintenance is also critical to ensure the systems function correctly, involving periodic checks and cleaning of fans, inlets, and other components. POOR VENTILATION Can lead to E. coli, respiratory diseases, poor feed intake, ammonia blindness, poor egg quality and reduced production. EXCESSIVE VENTILATION Can cause E. coli, respiratory diseases, nervousness, crowding, and poor litter quality. UNEVEN VENTILATION Can result in E. coli, respiratory disease, poor feed intake, floor eggs, nervousness, crowding, and poor litter quality. MONITOR AIR QUALITY While we can utilise modern technology to keep a close eye on attributes such as ammonia levels and CO2, we shouldn’t underestimate the best tool at our disposal; our own senses. Our eyes and ears are our first alert to issues within the poultry house. DON’T BE AFRAID TO ADJUST THE VENTILATION RATES While modern systems are equipped with built in sensors to adjust and regulate ventilation, factors such as bird numbers and activity levels often aren’t taken into account. Work closely with your equipment suppliers, so you understand how to operate your system effectively. ENSURE EVEN AIR DISTRIBUTION The collaboration of air inlets and outlets should be working together effectively to provide a balanced airflow throughout your house. Remember that the equipment within the house can redivert airflow. AVOID DRAUGHTS Ensure air movement doesn’t create air pockets that can potentially influence negative behaviour within your flock, such as huddling or restricted movement. REGULAR MAINTENANCE Keep the equipment clean and in good working order throughout the rearing and production cycles. Make sure the equipment is tested and reset between every flock cycle. VENTILATION MANAGEMENT TIPS Minimum Ventilation rates Requirement 0.4 m3/hour/kg live bird Purpose Ensures a basic level of air exchange to maintain air quality. Required capacity 4 m3/hour/kg live bird Purpose Provides sufficient air movement to maintain optimal conditions, especially during periods of high activity or temperature extremes. Air quality levels Ammonia (NH3): Maximum 20 ppm Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Maximum 2500 ppm Common problems with inefficient Ventilation LOHMANN › MANAGEMENT GUIDE › HOUSING SYSTEMS
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