Decentralized ventilation for holiday resort in Schierke
Fresh air with Thuringian ventilation technology in the Harz Mountains
The family-run holiday resort “Zum Wildbach” is located in the idyllic Upper Harz region, near Wernigerode and the legendary Brocken mountain. What at first glance appears to be a classic holiday idyll is now also a prime example of sustainable building management – thanks to the decentralized ventilation solution from inVENTer.
Since 2003, Daniela and Marius Michael have been offering their guests relaxing days in the Harz Mountains in 22 cozy vacation apartments and three double rooms. The resort was gradually expanded in 2006, 2008, 2011, and most recently in 2023. In 2006, Sebastian Michael, Marius’ brother, also joined the team. And it was during the most recent construction phase that an issue came up that repeatedly poses challenges in vacation properties: mold prevention through proper ventilation.
The problem:Five guests, one shower – and no windows open
Anyone who rents out vacation apartments knows this: guests take showers one after the other, forget to open the window—or simply don’t know any better. The consequences: excessive humidity, mildew stains, mold growth. This was a recurring issue at the “Zum Wildbach” vacation resort, especially in apartments occupied by several people. For Marius Michael, a trained HVAC technician, it was clear that a well-designed ventilation solution was needed—one that was quiet, efficient, and ideally did not require major construction work. So he began his research…
“I came across the inVENTer website and was immediately impressed—everything was very clear, structured, and professional,” recalls Marius Michael. After visiting the showroom in Löberschütz and receiving expert advice, the decision was made: over 100 decentralized ventilation units with heat recovery would permanently protect the apartments from moisture.
The solution:inVENTer impresses across the board
The ventilation system was designed individually according to the size of each apartment, with a particular focus on sound insulation. Although the torrent that gives the complex its name rushes idyllically by, it should not be heard in the apartments—which is why additional sound insulation was installed. “Since the ventilation system has been running, you can’t hear anything anymore, not even the occasional passing car. For guests, this is an absolute gain in peace and comfort,” says Marius Michael.
“It was also important that the fan noise did not disturb our guests, for example when they were trying to fall asleep. That’s why we chose the iV14-Zero model, as it is virtually inaudible.“ Marius Michael wanted to see for himself and made his way to the Thuringian manufacturer’s showroom in Löberschütz near Jena. ”Even with my ear to the device, the iV14-Zero was almost inaudible,” he says, explaining his decision to choose the soundproof fan.
Fireplace romance and technology in harmony
Some of the cozy vacation apartments at Zum Wildbach are equipped with a wood-burning stove—especially in winter, this creates a cozy atmosphere and a genuine “Harz feeling.” But how does controlled ventilation work with an open fireplace? “Perfectly!” says Marius Michael. He has found a technical solution for this too: an air pressure monitor ensures that if negative pressure builds up – for example, when the fireplace is burning and the fans are running at the same time – the ventilation system is automatically switched off until the pressure conditions in the room have returned to normal. This ensures safety at all times without compromising on comfort or fresh air.
Self-installedQuick, easy, and easy to follow
Thanks to his expertise, Marius Michael took care of installing the ventilation units himself—and was thrilled: “After the first fan, each subsequent unit went faster. The installation instructions were very clear, and the additional installation videos provided were very helpful.”
Today, all guests benefit from the constant fresh air in the vacation apartments and a comfortable atmosphere even in the winter months, which is ensured by the heat recovery of the fans. The owners of the vacation complex can also relax when it comes to their guests’ ventilation habits: Excessive moisture is reliably removed to the outside – the apartments remain mold-free. Complaints? None. On the contrary: The peaceful living environment speaks for itself.
A conclusion with recommendationDecentralized ventilation in Germany
Marius Michael is convinced: “Decentralized ventilation with heat recovery is indispensable, especially for vacation homes. I would never build a property without ventilation again.”
The “Zum Wildbach” vacation resort impressively demonstrates how comfort, energy efficiency, and sustainable value retention can be combined—with fresh air from Thüringer Lüftungstechnik.