Ventilation Louvres

Can you use only natural ventilation for a big underground carpark?

The car park is one level(in the basement), fully enclosed and in a warm and humid country. Openings can only be made on the top of the car park, no sides. Will air wells help? How big should they be if yes? Are there any like examples (basement car park with natural ventilation) out there? Thanks

Public Comments

1. You need forced air ventilation, as well as some kind of sump pumping system to get any water that collects there out. 1000 cfm using 4 foot by 4 foot wells and fans should do quite well. Not only do you need to get moisture and exhaust gasses out, you also need to get gas fumes out of the parking area as well. If sufficient fumes collect in the basement area, BOOM!!!! You won't need to worry about ventilation then. You'll have all the natural ventilation you want while picking up the pieces of whats left.
2. Yes. Monoxide carbon goes up and high temp air too. Extractor should be required, but the size and quantity depends on the cubic feets of the area evaluated. You should check your local construction code or city code. Also NFPA (national Fire protection agency). Therefore, some openings or electric vents will be required in order to produce a vacum effect. Check your city construction code because it varies city by city