Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) is a system that supplies fresh air to indoor spaces while simultaneously extracting stale air. This technology isbecoming increasingly popular in residential buildings because it offers better indoor air quality, increased energy efficiency, and cost savings. In this essay, I will discuss the importance of MVHR and its associated costs.
Indoor air quality is a critical aspect to considerincreasingly being adopted in residential buildings as a means of improving indoor air quality, reducing energy costs, and meeting building regulations. Below you can find informaction why MVHR is important for residential buildings.
One of the key advantages of MVHR is its ability to provide a constant supply of fresh air to indoor spaces. In conventional buildings, air is exchanged passively through cracks, doors, and windows. This can lead to a build-up of pollutants, such as carbon dioxide, volatile organic compounds, and dust, which can have negative impacts on human health. MVHR systems, on the other hand, provide a controlled, filtered air supply that is free from pollutants and harmful chemicals. This can help to improve indoor air quality, reducing the risk of respiratory illnesses, allergies, and other health issues.
Another significant benefit of MVHR is its capacity to recover heat from the outgoing, stale air. In winter, as much as 30% of a building’s heat may be lost through ventilation. MVHR systems use heat exchangers to transfer heat from the outgoing air to the fresh air coming in, thereby reducing the amount of energy required for heating. This means that MVHR systems can help to cut heating costs and improve energy efficiency, thereby reducing the environmental impact of residential buildings.
MVHR systems are also an effective way of complying with building regulations. In many countries, including the UK and the EU, building regulations require that new buildings meet strict standards for energy efficiency, air quality, and ventilation. MVHR systems can play an important role in meeting these standards, and are increasingly being specified by architects and developers for new residential buildings.
So, what are the costs associated with MVHR systems for residential buildings? The answer to this question depends on a range of factors, including the size of the building, the complexity of the system, and the level of installation required. Generally, MVHR systems are more expensive to install than conventional ventilation systems, with costs ranging from several thousand to tens of thousands of British pounds. However, these costs are offset by the long-term benefits of improved energy efficiency, lower heating costs, and improved indoor air quality.
In conclusion, Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) is an important technology for residential buildings. It offers many benefits, including improved indoor air quality, reduced heating costs, and compliance with building regulations. While the initial costs of installation may be higher than those of conventional ventilation systems, the long-term benefits of MVHR make it a worthwhile investment for any residential building owner.
We offer a full design, consultations and installation of mechanical ventilation with heat recovery systems. Contact us to find out how REMARS MEP Engineering Ltd can help you with MVHR systems.
