Do MVHR Dry the Air Out?

For anyone interested in the HVAC sector, you will know that humidity is something to generally avoid, but at the same time, so is completely dry air. There is a difficult balance to maintain, and MVHR units are no exception to trying to achieve the ideal balance.

In this blog, we will be answering the question ‘Do MVHR dry the air out?’

With new buildings being made to be as energy efficient as possible, and the UK aiming for 95% of its electricity usage to be low carbon by 2030, it is imperative to understand how we can make the most of our ventilation. This is where MVHR units come in.

To prevent mould, fresh air should constantly be introduced into your dwelling daily, as it helps to regulate temperature and reduce condensation. Introducing fresh air can be as simple as having a ventilation routine, or installing extractors or MVHR units. Almost all of this is facilitated by ducting.

I-Sells is here to provide the answers you need whilst also supplying you with all the information you need to combat mould and have a well-ventilated home.

MVHR explained

MVHR is a term used in the HVAC industry, MVHR stands for ‘Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery’. This is the technical term for what is generally known as heat recovery units, or heat recovery systems.

Heat recovery systems provide all the benefits of regular ventilation with the unique addition of being able to retain heat that would have been lost with regular ventilation. Heat recovery systems can come in single or multi-room applications.

Are there any advantages of MVHR?

Yes, there are many advantages of a MVHR system, the key advantage is its ability to retain warmth without contributing to humidity. This saves money that could be spent heating your home, whilst helping to prevent the environment that mould thrives in.

The aim of a heat recovery system, aside from recovering any heat that is lost through ventilation, is to create an environment in which condensation, and consequently mould, can’t survive. 

The advantages of heat recovery systems are the following:

• Holds all the benefits of an extractor, including the removal of stale air, humidity and smells.
• It helps to prevent the cultivation of mould through the removal of humidity.
• Temperature sensors ensure that additional heat is not being added to the atmosphere of the home if it is already hot. 
• Heat recovery systems take a lot of the burden from you conducting a ventilation routine. This is ideal for a vulnerable person.
• Less of a need to use your central heating frequently as the heat generated through your house is recycled through the heat recovery unit.
• The reduced use of heating as a result of the heat conservation granted by a heat recovery unit can help you save on energy bills.

Should I get a single room MVHR or multi-room?

Multi-room MVHR units provide ventilation, and heat recovery to multiple rooms, which is ideal for larger, particularly older houses. Newer homes are build with insulation in mind, so although they can be used in newer homes, they are sometimes not entirely needed.

Single room systems are more suited for rooms that you know are a problem when it comes to ventilation, heat recovery and/or humidity. They can be installed in bedrooms, utility rooms, bathrooms, and kitchens. 

The one you choose is purely subjective to your needs and issues you are facing. If you require a second opinion, please don’t hesitate to contact us!

Do MVHR dry the air out?