Which Heat Recovery Ventilation System is Best For Me

Heat recovery systems are an extremely beneficial ventilation solution that is accessible for almost anyone. By ensuring heat isn’t lost during its ventilation process, you are retaining your comfort whilst extracting impure or overly humid air.

But, there is more than one kind of heat recovery ventilation system. So what should you look out for when browsing through your options?

In this blog, we will answer the question ‘Which heat recovery system is best for me?’

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 applications such as extractor fans and heat recovery ventilation 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.

What does a heat recovery ventilation system do?

A heat recovery ventilation system, also known as a heat recovery system, or MVHR unit, is a form of ventilation that has the unique feature of retaining heat that would otherwise be lost during extraction with a regular extractor system.

Below, we will share the simple four-step process that a heat recovery system goes through when it is active.

1. Brings in Fresh Air: It draws fresh air from outside your home through a filter, removing dust, pollen, and other airborne particles.
2. Extracts Stale Air: It removes stale air and moisture from inside your house through another duct.
3. Heat Exchange (The Clever Part!): Here’s the key feature: Before the stale air gets expelled, the system captures the heat it contains.

• There’s a special heat exchanger inside the unit that acts like a bridge.
• The warm exhaust air transfers its heat to the incoming fresh air without them actually mixing.

       4. Warm Fresh Air Delivered: The pre-warmed fresh air is then distributed throughout your house using a network of ducts.

Benefits of a Heat Recovery System

• Reduced Heating Costs: By recovering heat from outgoing air, the system reduces the workload on your heating system, saving you money on energy bills.

• Improved Air Quality: The constant supply of fresh, filtered air helps create a healthier and more comfortable living environment.

• Reduced Moisture Levels: Extracting moisture from the air helps prevent condensation, mould growth, and other moisture-related problems.

• Year-Round Ventilation: Heat recovery systems work efficiently throughout the year, unlike opening windows, which isn’t ideal in cold weather.

How big are heat recovery systems?

Heat recovery systems can range in size depending on your needs, and/or the model you select. There are single-room units, which are usually the same size as a standard extractor fan, and whole house units available too.

Heat recovery systems work best in larger homes. The difference will not only be felt in the air you breathe, but on your bills too, as you are less likely to use your heating system as long as you typically would.

Which heat recovery ventilation system is best for me?