Installation MVHR ventilation system and mounting tips
In this knowledge article, we take you through the do's and dont's when installing a MVHR ventilation system yourself. Of course, many of these tips can also be applied when connecting other, similar, fans.
Can I install a heat recovery system MVHR (myself)?
Yes, this is possible, but requires some experience. We recommend that you read the manual carefully and, if you have any questions, inform yourself well in advance. We will gladly inform you further below.
Mounting position of a heat recovery system (HEW)
Depending on the type of MVHR, you can mount it in four positions, namely:
- Horizontally against the wall
- Vertically against the wall
- Lying on the floor
- Against the ceiling
The position horizontally against the wall is the most common mounting position of a mvhr. The other mounting positions are mainly used where there is little (mounting) space. If in doubt, the manual always lists the possible mounting positions of the respective heat exchanger.
Tip
During installation, always bear in mind that the filters of the MVHR need to be replaced, but also that the front plate/cover can be taken off for any cleaning/repair or cleaning.
The electrical connection at a MVHR
Every MVHR is fitted with a plug. Two different plugs are possible for a MVHR, namely;
Perilex plug
A perilex plug has five connections, subdivided into:
- 1x Phase wire (voltage wire, brown in colour
- 2x Switching wires (black/grey colour)
- 1x Neutral wire (blue in colour)
- 1x Ground wire (yellow/green in colour)
These connections enable you to use a fixed and wired three-position switch to set the fan box to position 1, 2 and 3 respectively. There should therefore always be a direct wired connection between the fixed three-position switch and the perilex socket into which the perilex plug is inserted.
Peripheral plug
A plug with three connections, namely; 1x Phase wire, 1x Zero wire and 1x Grounded wire. This version is one of the most common and can only be operated with a wireless RF control.
Connections directly to the heat exchanger
Each heat recovery fan has two connections to the inside and two connections to the outside. However, these connections can differ in terms of mounting on the MVHR. Here are some general terms:
Location of connections on different versions
High-rise, all connections on the top side
Low-rise, connections on the bottom and top side
Left-hand construction, residential connections on the left* side
Right-hand version, residential connections on the right-hand side*
Side connections, connections on the side, often combined with the top side*
(*depending on type, this may differ slightly)
Residential side connections - from MVHR to ductwork
Supply, supplying (blowing) fresh air into a living space
Return, extracting polluted air in wet rooms, possibly also in other rooms
External connections - from MVHR to roof penetration
Intake, drawing fresh air from outside to the HRS
Discharge, blowing polluted air from the HR to the outside
Tip
Decide in advance which type of MVHR and with which connections best suits your situation. There are also heat exchangers that are especially suitable for the ceiling or can be mounted vertically. Need help? Get in touch with us.
Attenuating noise - MVHR silencers
A MVHR is always connected on the living area side with silencers. You can think of rigid or flexible silencers. If a silencer needs to be longer than 1.2 metres, an acoustic hose is also an option. The disadvantage of the latter hose is if you have your ducts cleaned in the future, the hose will not survive.
Difference between a rigid and flexible silencer
The two major differences are the material and the attenuation. The rigid silencer damps considerably more. This silencer is easy to clean and offers less resistance than a flexible silencer, but is not flexible. The flexible silencer you can bend more, ideal for smaller rooms, slightly cheaper in purchase, more resistance and not easy to clean.
Cross-talk silencers
Cross-talk silencers are silencers that you place directly in the duct before the valve. If several valves are connected to a duct, you largely prevent cross-talk between room A and room B. These silencers can be used in addition if necessary. Cross-talk attenuators alone are not enough.
See also our blog about noise
Hoe verminder ik het geluid van mijn ventilatiesysteem?
Dilution factor
The dilution factor is a calculation that indicates the safe mounting distance between the two roof penetrations. The calculation depends on the type of roof or facade, the number of m3/h and the location of the desired supply and exhaust. Make sure you always take this into account, otherwise dangerous situations can arise. In the worst case, you suck the polluted air back inside.
Controls MVHR system
A heat exchanger is available in several versions. Each version can be operated differently or have different functionalities. Most (new) systems can be operated wirelessly. There are already systems on the market with a built-in humidity sensor and systems that can operate autonomously (e.g. by time, humidity and CO2), with the option of further control via the app.
Have (calculated) installation, or advice?
Have (calculated) installation, or advice? If you are still not sure after reading this and would like advice in advance, call or e-mail us!
Of course, we can also relieve you of all your worries and help you replace your old heat exchanger. Check out the possibilities here.
Would you like security but still want to be in control? Are you planning a renovation or refurbishment? Then take a look at the MVHR do-it-yourself advice. For more information on ventilation calculations, click here.
View all MVHR ventilation systems here
Conclusion and tips
- A mechanical fan is self-installing
- Use our installation videos and product specifications
- Decide on Perilex or Peripheral/Euro plug connection before purchase
- For your safety, the power should be switched off when electrically connected
- When replacing Perilex, the existing wall socket may need to be adapted
Can we help you with anything else?
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