Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) system and how does it work?
An MVHR system continuously extracts stale, humid air from kitchens and bathrooms while supplying filtered, fresh air to living spaces. A high-efficiency heat exchanger recovers warmth from the outgoing air and transfers it to the incoming flow without mixing the two. This maintains fresh indoor air and stable temperatures with minimal energy loss.
2. How do I know if my property would benefit from MVHR?
If you have a modern, airtight, or recently refurbished home that traps moisture and odours, MVHR is ideal. Signs include condensation on windows, mould growth, or lingering smells. These systems not only meet Building Regulations for ventilation but also help preserve the health of your property’s structure.
3. Does MVHR improve indoor air quality and health?
Yes. The system constantly filters incoming air, removing pollen, dust, and fine particles that aggravate allergies or asthma. At the same time, it expels excess humidity and pollutants from cooking, cleaning, and everyday living. The result is cleaner, drier air that protects both your lungs and your home.
4. Does installing MVHR reduce my energy consumption?
It does. By reclaiming up to 90% of the heat from extracted air, an MVHR system eases the load on your heating system and stabilises indoor temperatures. A well-designed unit costs around £35 per year to run, yet delivers year-round fresh air and energy savings that far exceed its operating cost.
5. Are MVHR systems noisy or intrusive during operation?
A properly designed and balanced system is almost silent — typically 20–25 decibels at the vents, quieter than a refrigerator. The main unit is usually hidden in a loft or utility area, so you enjoy clean air without background noise or visual clutter.
6. What maintenance is required to keep an MVHR system efficient?
Filters should be checked every six to twelve months, depending on air quality. A yearly professional service keeps fans clean, checks airflow, and ensures the system remains balanced and compliant. Routine care prevents dust build-up and maintains quiet, efficient performance.
7. What is included in a professional MVHR service visit?
A qualified engineer inspects and cleans the unit, replaces filters, measures airflow, and verifies all controls and sensors. You receive a short report confirming system health and any recommendations — simple, thorough, and fast.
8. Can you maintain systems installed by another company?
Yes. We service all major brands. Our engineers begin with a diagnostic assessment to benchmark performance, correct design faults if found, and bring the system back to optimal specification.
9. What level of disruption should I expect during installation?
Very little. Ducting is run through lofts or ceiling voids, and access points are kept discreet. Small homes can usually be completed within two days; larger projects may take up to a week. We coordinate neatly with other trades to minimise inconvenience.
10. Can I maintain any part of the system myself?
You can replace or clean filters yourself; the front panel gives easy access. We demonstrate proper handling during handover. All other servicing should be left to a qualified engineer to protect both performance and warranty.
11. How long should an MVHR unit last?
With regular servicing, most units last 10–15 years. Components such as fans and sensors are replaceable, so the system can operate efficiently for decades rather than being fully replaced.
12. What warranties and service agreements do you provide?
Every installation includes a manufacturer’s warranty and our workmanship guarantee. We also offer annual service contracts with reminders, priority visits, and reduced call-out rates — ensuring your system continues to deliver clean air and reliability year after year.