Over or under-sizing the unit will not only make the unit inefficient but it will also be noisy and consume excessive power. You can also choose to install multiple MVHR units for a quieter, more energy-efficient system. This will also provide better heat recovery.
The ductwork installed is vital to the efficiency of the system. If the ductwork isn’t installed correctly, the MVHR unit will struggle to produce the heat it needs. In addition to reducing the efficiency of the ventilation unit, improperly installed ductwork can damage the fabric of the building.
Airflow rate of individual rooms
Another important factor when choosing the MVHR system for your home is the airflow rate of individual rooms. MVHR units are most efficient when they deliver at least 50-60% of the required airflow. Depending on the size of the property, you may need a smaller unit for smaller rooms.
Once you have the size of the unit, you can then specify the amount of air it needs to remove pollutants. The airflow rate of a particular MVHR unit is usually indicated on the nameplate. For example, a Zehnder Q350 MVHR unit has a maximum airflow rate of 350 m3/h.
Airtight ductwork
MVHR systems are effective if the ductwork is airtight. If the ductwork is not airtight, noise and breakdowns can result. Make sure that the ductwork is completely airtight and that it doesn’t cause any leaks. Also, consider the location of the vents and terminals. They can make or break the performance of the system.
MVHR systems can help you cut the costs of heating your home. They work by recovering energy from exhaust air. However, these systems are expensive and often have inefficient designs. They require more maintenance than standard systems. A well-designed system can improve energy efficiency and cut capital costs.
Types of MVHR systems
There are two basic types of MVHR systems. The first type is the rotary exchanger. It is the oldest type of exchanger in the ventilation industry. It also incorporates moisture recovery. In climates that have low humidity levels, this can be a significant benefit.
Well-designed for your property
The next step in choosing the best MVHR system for your home is to determine what your needs are. While MVHR systems are very energy-efficient and can lower your energy bills, they should be well-designed for your particular building. A poorly-sized MVHR unit won’t provide adequate ventilation and can cause condensation and mould.
The PHI method can be used to determine the efficiency of your MVHR. It can also reveal poor airtightness and insulation. Inefficient MVHRs can also accidentally heat up your incoming air by varying the room temperature. Hence, their performance is not high.
