What is an MVHR unit? Energy-efficient ventilation
- What is MVHR?
- What does an MVHR system cost?
- Can you install an MVHR system in an existing house?
- How long does an MVHR installation last?
- How to maintain an MVHR installation?
- What is the best MVHR unit?
- Best-selling MVHR units
What is MVHR?
The abbreviation MVHR stands for 'Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery' and is a method of ventilation in which as little heat as possible is lost. When using MVHR ventilation, the used, warm air can easily be removed and the heat from this is transferred to the fresh, cold air that flows into the house through the ventilation system. An MVHR unit keeps the air flows in your home in balance.
Just like a mechanical ventilator, the MVHR system extracts contaminated air but also supplies fresh air. The heat from the polluted air is transferred to the fresh air by the heat exchanger, so that it is at the right temperature when entering the house. The outgoing and incoming air flows do not come into contact with each other. Unpleasant, cold air flows in the house will be a thing of the past. In the summer, this works the other way round, allowing the system to provide some cooling.
What does an MVHR system cost?
An MVHR unit costs approximately between €700 and €2000, excluding installation costs. Such a ventilation system is therefore more expensive than a traditional mechanical ventilation system, but you can still save money on your ventilation through heat recovery.
First of all, it is important to have your ventilation system in proper working order. It is easier for your ventilator to heat dry air than humid air. By preheating the ventilation air that is blown into your house, you do not have to heat the house as intensively. This is because the temperature of the ventilation air is higher than with a traditional grill. By purchasing an MVHR unit, your heating system needs to heat up less, which can save you a lot on heating costs.
Can you install an MVHR system in an existing house?
The installation of an MVHR system in an existing house is often difficult or even impossible. This is because air ducts must be constructed for MVHR. If you want to install an MVHR system in an existing home, a decentralised MVHR is the best solution for you. A decentralised heat recovery system can be used for one room. Are you curious about the advantages of a decentralised heat recovery system? Read about it in this blog.
How long does an MVHR installation last?
The average lifespan of an MVHR unit is approximately 15 years. This does not always mean that the whole MVHR unit is replaced after 15 years, because defects can often be solved by replacing individual parts. In addition, people often choose to replace their ventilation unit earlier for a newer model which simply provides better performance and is more energy efficient. The older models will be less energy-efficient than the current ones.
How to maintain an MVHR installation?
- Clean ventilation grilles and valves once per month
- Clean or replace filters every six months
- Check and clean the inside of the fan every 2 years
- Have the ventilation ducts cleaned once every four to six years
What is the best MVHR unit?
There are several major brands that produce good and cost-effective MVHR units, such as Itho Daalderop, Vent-Axia, Orcon, Duco and Tallinn. Which MVHR unit is the best depends very much on your situation. It is best to use the MVHR selection tool. Are you still not quite sure? Please contact us, we are happy to advise you.
Best-selling MVHR units
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