G-tools Air Inlet

A passive air inlet in two parts: a tube section that goes through a 70 mm hole and a cover that closes it off on the inside. Clips in with one movement.

Air in, light out

An air inlet has to do two things at once that contradict each other: pass air and block light. A hole does the first well and the second not at all, and that is precisely where home-made inlets go wrong.

Light matters during a dark period. A beam falling in through an inlet lands on plants set to darkness, disturbing exactly the period you want to leave them alone. The other way round, light shining out advertises your set-up to anyone walking past.

The solution here is simple and mechanical. The tube passes through the wall, and the cover sits over it on the inside with space around it. Air passes in around the rim of the cover, but light cannot make that turn, because light only travels straight. What remains is an opening that passes air and stays dark.

No power is needed: your extraction creates negative pressure in the room, which draws the fresh air through by itself.

Drill the hole at 70 mm, low in the room and opposite your extraction, so the air crosses the whole space rather than leaving again immediately.

Technical Specifications:

• Parts: tube section and cover
• Hole size: 70 mm
• Action: passive, on the negative pressure from your extraction
• Light-tight: yes, through the internal cover
• Panel thickness: ideal 8 mm, thicker also suitable
• Reusable: clips in and out

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a fan with it?
No. The negative pressure from your extraction draws air in.

How many inlets do I need?
Enough that your extraction is not sucking through an undersized opening. When in doubt, one more.

Where do I put them?
Low, and as far from your extraction as possible, so the air crosses the room.