Aylmer designer develops floor vent to address winter dryness

Tashi Farmilo

While preparing a nursery in their Aylmer home for the arrival of their first child, Johan Van Hulle and his wife became aware of the dry indoor air typical of Canadian winters. The effect was especially noticeable near the floor vents, where heated air circulated through the house. Many households that rely on forced-air systems contend with similar conditions, often marked by low humidity and airborne dust.

Seeking a solution, Van Hulle, an industrial designer with more than a decade of experience in the medical device field, placed bowls of water near the vents to increase humidity. This simple approach eventually led to the development of EverVent, a floor register that incorporates a water reservoir and filter. The device passively introduces moisture and traps dust using the home’s existing heating system.

“It began as a home solution,” Van Hulle said, “something to make the air healthier for our newborn.”

He created the first prototype using a 3D printer. Though basic, it demonstrated the core concept. After evaluating commercially available vent humidifiers, he determined that most lacked an evaporative medium, which is essential for releasing moisture into airflow. He responded by incorporating a wood-pulp mesh into his design. This material, used widely in humidification products, proved effective at both releasing moisture and filtering particles such as pet hair and dust.

Roughly a dozen design versions followed before Van Hulle settled on a final model. The unit is made from ABS plastic, which is more durable and resistant to discolouration than the high-density polyethylene typically used in floor vents. The filter, sourced from a supplier with over 20 years of experience in the humidification industry, needs to be replaced only every three to six months.

EverVent, designed and tested in Aylmer and manufactured abroad, is built with safety and practicality in mind. Though not regulated, the product follows medical-grade design principles and includes secure mounting features to prevent tampering. Its small water reservoir evaporates daily, reducing the risk of mold, and the filter requires minimal maintenance. Marketed through Van Hulle’s company, Platsun, EverVent is currently available in one size, with additional models in development based on customer demand.

“Many people have asked about sizes to fit older homes or about different colours that match wood or metal finishes,” he said. “That’s part of our next phase.”

The product was launched during the same period that Van Hulle became a father. He described the experience as both rewarding and difficult. “There were a lot of late nights and long days,” he said. “But the support from my wife and encouragement from colleagues made it possible.”

More information about the product is available at platsun.com.