With recent updates to the building regulations regarding insulation and air-tightness, ventilation and heat recovery considerations become essential to avoid the build up of condensation and maximise the effectiveness of insulation. This is our in-house PassivHaus specialist Richard Marlow's area of expertise: he is a tutor and assessor for the NICEIC. This area of the business is where our slogan "Build tight, ventilate right" comes from!

We can specify and install ventilation and heat recovery systems in both new build projects, and retro-fit projects: the main type of system we tend to install is an MVHR system, although other solutions such as DMEVs are available for install.

A Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) unit is a system designed to improve indoor air quality and energy efficiency in buildings. It works by providing controlled ventilation while recovering heat from the outgoing air and transferring it to the incoming fresh air. Here's a more detailed look at how MVHR units function and their benefits:

How an MVHR Unit Works:

Ventilation: The MVHR unit continuously extracts stale, moist air from rooms like kitchens, bathrooms, and utility areas, while simultaneously supplying fresh, filtered air to living spaces, bedrooms, and other occupied areas.

Heat Recovery: Inside the MVHR unit, a heat exchanger transfers heat from the outgoing stale air to the incoming fresh air without mixing the two air streams. This process retains up to 90% of the heat that would otherwise be lost through traditional ventilation methods.

Filtering: The incoming air is filtered to remove pollutants, allergens, and dust, improving indoor air quality.

Benefits of an MVHR Unit:

Energy Efficiency: By recovering heat from the outgoing air, MVHR units significantly reduce the amount of energy needed to heat the incoming air, leading to lower heating bills and improved energy efficiency. When combined with appropriate insulation to your property, an MVHR installation vastly improves the case to be made for installing an air source heat pump in your property.

Comfort: MVHR units provide a consistent supply of fresh air without creating drafts, maintaining a more stable indoor temperature and humidity level.

Condensation Control: By removing moist air, MVHR units help to prevent condensation and mold growth, protecting the building fabric and enhancing occupant comfort.