An MVHR system is an excellent investment for anyone looking to improve their homes’ air quality and heat.
And though great, one thing that many property owners fail to achieve is finding the right MVHR unit for their property.
Because of this, we’ve created this detailed guide to help you locate the best option for you. But first, let’s learn more about the MVHR system.
Understanding an MVHR System
An MVHR (Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery) system is a whole-house ventilation system that supplies and extracts air in a property. It extracts stale, moist air and replaces it with fresh, filtered air, all while using the exhausted air to preheat the air coming in.
Components of an MVHR System
There are two key components of an MVHR system:
- MVHR Unit: This is the central component of the system. It comprises a heat exchange, fans, and filters.
- Four-Branched Ducting Network: This ducting network distributes the air throughout the building. Generally, it’s through a leg & branch or radial system.
Why Do You Need Professional Installation?
When ‘choosing’ an MVHR system, it’s not as easy as plug-and-play. It needs careful planning and execution.
Because of this, you need a professional designer with expertise in MVHR performance specifications, building codes, materials, and ducting profiles. This will ensure that your system provides the best indoor air quality.
A professional will assess your property before recommending a system. During this assessment, they’ll consider its size, airtightness, and other factors.
They’ll also look for the best locations for the units and ducting and note any obstacles in the ceiling and walls that could affect airflow.
It’s possible to perform a DIY MVHR installation without question. However, we strongly recommend that you work closely with a builder and MVHR system designer like Cool Runnings LTD.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an MVHR System
1. Property Type, Size & Airtightness
The size and airtightness of your property will directly impact the type of MVHR system you need.
As you can imagine, more significant properties require higher airflow rates, and well-sealed homes have the most efficient heat recovery.
In addition, the property type could change the type of ducting network you choose, which can impact price and labour time.
New builds, for instance, can often opt for radial systems with short duct systems, which don’t take as long to install as a leg and branch system.
2. MVHR System Design & Installation
Regarding system design and installation, hire a professional to complete the entire process or have a professional guide you.
A well-designed MVHR system guarantees balanced air distribution with minimal noise. However, this is only possible when a professional has carefully designed the system’s layout, specifying optimal duct routes and unit placement.
Generally, the ducting is installed in six days, and the MVHR unit takes another two. When the MVHR unit is mounted, it will also be commissioned by Part F Building Regulations, which will take another day.
You can only pass regulations if a professional commissions the unit.
3. Airflow Rate & Noise Levels
The best MVHR system should also meet your property’s required air change rate while operating quietly.
Whatever system you choose should be sufficient to replace the stale indoor air while maintaining an energy-efficient balance. Remember, however, just having a sound system isn’t enough. Installation also plays a role in proper airflow.
The placement and quality of the MVHR system contribute to the noise levels. Typically, higher-quality units have more soundproofing components, such as silencers. Again, a proper duct system also reduces humming or whistling sounds.
Units such as the Vent Axia Sentinel Kinetic, Nuaire MRXBOX, and Vectaire MIDI/MAXI are popular choices for airflow rates and noise levels. These models have been engineered to run quietly and efficiently recover heat.
4. Budget Considerations
Budget, like everything, plays a massive role in how ‘good’ your MVHR system operates. Generally, the more you spend, the better it’ll be.
So that you know, a three-bedroom home with a bathroom and ensuite will cost £12,000.
Here’s a rough breakdown:
- MVHR Unit: £1,000 – £1,600
- 90mm Radial Duct Kit: £3,500
- Professional Design: Up to £400
- Silencers/Sound Attenuation: Up to £400
- Installation: £3,000 – £4,000
- System Commissioning: £350
You can lower system and installation costs. However, we recommend doing it the right way the first time. Reports even suggest you can get a return on your investment within 5 years, so it’s worth considering.
5. Warranty & Maintenance
When selecting an MVHR, make sure it comes with a strong warranty. Otherwise, if your MVHR unit stops working, you could incur a hefty bill.
The Vent Axia Sentinel Kinetic Lo-Carbon comes with the best warranty on the market. Currently, purchasers get a five-year warranty on their unit, which offers a lot of peace of mind.
In addition, you’ll need to get the ventilation system serviced and maintained for the unit’s health and warranty.
For the most part, an annual service is sufficient. This will ensure your MVHR system remains efficient.
Checklist for Choosing the Best MVHR System
| Checklist Item | Description | ✔ |
| Assess Property Size & Airtightness | Determine the size and airtightness of your home to choose an MVHR system with the right airflow capacity. | |
| Choose the Right Ducting Network | Decide between a radial or leg & branch system based on your property type for efficient airflow distribution. | |
| Get a Professional System Design | Work with an expert to ensure the system is designed for optimal air circulation, efficiency, and low noise. | |
| Ensure Professional Installation | Hire a qualified installer to set up and commission the system in compliance with Part F Building Regulations. | |
| Verify Airflow & Noise Levels | Select an MVHR unit that meets your home’s ventilation needs while running quietly and efficiently. | |
| Check Budget & Costs | Budget between £8,000-£12,000, factoring in the unit, ducting, design, installation, and commissioning. | |
| Select a Strong Warranty | Choose a system with a warranty of at least five years to ensure long-term reliability and support. | |
| Plan for Regular Maintenance | Schedule annual servicing to keep your MVHR system performing optimally and maintain its warranty coverage. |
Conclusion
Choosing the best MVHR system comes down to a quality system and installation.
You can have a great system, but poor installation could result in an inefficient unit. On the other hand, you could have an inadequate system and excellent installation, which will result in the same thing.
Because of this, you need a balance of both. That’s why you should contact us at Cool Runnings LTD. We can help you through the entire process, ensuring you get a system that benefits you and your property.
