Many homeowners are discovering the benefits of Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems to improve indoor air quality, lower energy bills, and reduce mould. However, despite their growing popularity, MVHR systems face several myths that can lead to confusion and missed benefits. In this post, we’ll bust some of the most common myths about MVHR to help you make an informed choice for your home’s air quality.
Myth 1: MVHR Systems are Only for New Builds Many believe that MVHR is only suitable for new, airtight homes. While MVHR systems are often integrated into new builds, they can be installed in existing homes as well. Retrofitting is possible, and it’s often a great solution for homes with humidity or mould issues. MVHR systems can improve any indoor space by bringing in filtered, fresh air and removing stale air efficiently.
Wondering if MVHR could work in your home? Contact us to discuss how retrofitting MVHR can enhance your air quality and comfort.
Myth 2: MVHR Uses Too Much Energy With energy costs on everyone’s mind, it’s a common concern that MVHR systems use a lot of energy. In reality, MVHR systems are designed for efficiency, often running at around 60% capacity to reduce energy consumption and noise. Advanced models from brands like Zehnder have heat exchangers with up to 97% efficiency, which means almost all of the heat from extracted air is transferred back into your home. That’s savings you can feel in your wallet and your warmth.
Myth 3: MVHR Systems Make Homes Cold in Winter A well-designed MVHR system doesn’t blow cold air into your home during winter. Instead, it recovers heat from extracted air and uses it to warm the incoming air. This process ensures your home stays comfortable all year round, even when it’s cold outside. With MVHR, you benefit from fresh air circulation without any temperature shock, thanks to high-efficiency heat recovery.
Ready for year-round comfort? Learn more about how MVHR keeps your home warm in winter.
Myth 4: MVHR Is Too Noisy for a Home Environment One of the most common misconceptions is that MVHR systems are noisy. Modern MVHR systems are designed with silent operation in mind, often running so quietly that you don’t notice them at all. Noise is kept low by running the system at steady, low speeds and by using high-quality materials that dampen sound. MVHR isn’t about creating noise but about maintaining a peaceful environment with fresh, clean air.
Myth 5: MVHR Only Works in Large Homes While MVHR systems are perfect for larger homes, they are equally beneficial in smaller properties. Single-room ventilation options bring the benefits of MVHR into any room, especially important in damp areas like bathrooms and kitchens. No matter your home’s size, MVHR can be a valuable solution for better air quality.
Read about Single Room Ventilation to explore if this option is right for your home.
Myth 6: MVHR Systems Don’t Need Maintenance Some believe that once installed, MVHR requires little to no maintenance. Regular maintenance is essential to keep your system performing well and ensure healthy air quality. Filter changes, duct cleaning, and occasional servicing by professionals are vital for system longevity and efficiency.
Conclusion By debunking these myths, we hope to shed light on the real benefits of MVHR for your home. A well-installed, maintained MVHR system can transform your indoor environment, reduce energy bills, and support better health. If you have further questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Ready to take control of your home’s air quality? Request a quote today and explore how an MVHR system can improve your comfort and health.