MVHR stands for Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery. It's a whole-house system that provides continuous ventilation
while recovering heat from the extracted air.

It extracts warm, stale air from rooms like
kitchens and bathrooms, recovers the heat through a heat exchanger, and
supplies fresh, filtered air to living areas without mixing the two airflows.

No. An MVHR system doesn't generate heat, but it recovers and reuses existing heat to reduce heating demand.

High-quality MVHR systems recover between 60% and 95% of the heat from outgoing air, depending on system efficiency and airtightness of the home.

Not if properly installed. Good MVHR units
with insulated ductwork operate quietly, especially when designed with radial
systems.

Yes, but it's not necessary for
ventilation. Opening windows may reduce the system’s efficiency.

Minimal. Filters should be replaced or
cleaned every 3–6 months, and the system checked every two years.

Typically
20–80 watts, costing around £50–£80 per year to run

Yes, but it can be more complex than in new builds. Careful planning for ducting and layout is essential. Heat Recovery Direct are here to help ! we can design and guide you through the install process.

It's ideal for airtight homes, especially
new builds, Passivhaus, and low-energy properties. It can also be a great addition to a retrofit or even an old stone building.

Yes. Especially ducts that run through
unheated spaces to prevent heat loss and condensation.

You can use DIY kits, but professional
commissioning is recommended to ensure compliance and performance.

The system stops temporarily and restarts
automatically when power returns. There’s no lasting damage.

Yes. It removes excess moisture and keeps
humidity levels balanced, helping prevent mould and damp.

Not like AC, but it helps by bringing in
cooler night air with the summer bypass feature.

It can redistribute warm air, but it
is not a replacement for a heating system.

Poor duct design, unbalanced airflow,
flexible ducting overuse, lack of commissioning, and missing insulation.

Yes. MVHR systems are designed to run 24/7, year-round. Many have a summer bypass feature for warmer months.