Security

Marijuana Horticulture

by Jorge Cervantes

When installing a vent fan, security concerns dictate that no light or odor escape from the exterior vent while allowing ample air release. This can be accomplished in several ways. Baffle or turn the light around a corner to subdue brilliance. Many chimneys in British Columbia, Canada, shoot light out like a spotlight against the low cloud cover. You can walk down city streets where half the chimneys in the neighborhood are beacons of bright light. A 4-inch flexible dryer hose will subdue light in smaller grow rooms. larger, 8, 10, and 12 inch heat duct pipe is ideal for moving larger volumes of air.

Place one end of the duct outdoors. It should be high enough, preferably over 12 feet, so the odor disperses above most people’s heads. One of the best vents is the chimney. The outlet may be camouflaged by using a dryer hose wall outlet attached to a vent fan. The vent fan is then placed near the ceiling so it vents hot, humid air. Check for light and air leaks. Set up the fan an go outdoors after dark to inspect for light leaks.

Greenhouse fans are equipped with louvers (flaps or baffles) to prevent backdrafts. During cold and hot weather, undesirable backdrafts could alter the climate in the room and usher in a menagerie of pests and diseases. installing a vent fan with louvers eliminates backdrafts, but may present a security risk if it attracts the attention of the wrong crowd.