How to Make Greenhouse Vent Openers

Every greenhouse needs a venting system to prevent buildup of excessive heat in warm and sunny locations. Vents must be adjustable, to open to let hot air escape, but close when temperatures cool and heat needs to be retained. The size and number of vents will vary with the greenhouse. Manufacturers use various greenhouse coverings and vent techniques, but in general a vent is a frame with a panel of glass or plexiglass, hinged on one side so it can open. Most greenhouses use automatic openers, triggered by temperature which causes gas in the opener to expand.

Pencil
Power drill
Drill bits
Screwdriver

Instructions

- 1
  Install a vent and opener near the top of the greenhouse; follow manufacturer's directions for vent placement or if building your own greenhouse make a vent frame to fit inside the primary structure frame. Place the hinges for the frame toward the top of the greenhouse. Open and close the frame several times to make sure it operates freely.
- 2
  Set a vent closer, with two arms and a piston to operate the unit, in the center of the frame and mark spots in the bottom bracket with a pencil for holes to fasten it to the main frame of the greenhouse. Disconnect the piston on the closer or release its stop so it can easily move back and forth; some types have pins that connect the piston rod to the bracket. Drill mounting holes in the greenhouse frame with a power drill.
- 3
  Fasten the closer bracket to the greenhouse frame, using a screwdriver and screws provided with the closer. Fasten the bracket on the other end of the closer to the vent frame; make sure the opener is aligned straight. Open and close the vent once the closer is installed but with the piston released so the cover moves freely. Connect the piston when the closer is installed.

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