HEATING VENTILATION & SERVICES
Better ventilated homes mean a healthier future
Paul Croughan of EnviroVent looks at how the new build sector is meeting ventilation requirements and improving the air quality in new home construction
of new homes are now being specified with MVHR (Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery) systems, according to research by the NHBC (National Housebuilding Council).
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MVHR is proving to be the most effective way of achieving acceptable levels of indoor air quality and ventilation, while reducing the amount of energy used to heat a property.
These MVHR systems, which are situated in a central location, usually in the loft space of a house or a utility room in an apartment, provide both supply and extract ventilation, extracting warm and moisture-laden air from the bathroom, kitchen, WC and/or utility room of a property. Air is drawn into the main system and passes over a heat exchange cell, before being ducted outside to the atmosphere. At the same time, fresh air is drawn from outside into the system, the heat from the extract air is then transferred to the supply air through the heat exchanger. MVHR units can transfer over 90 per cent of the heat from the extracted air to the supply air as it passes through the heat exchange cell. This helps to reduce the overall energy requirement of the building, as well as its carbon footprint. This fresh, filtered and tempered air is then supplied into the living areas of the home, providing a good level of indoor air quality and preventing humidity which can lead to condensation and mould growth.
Where higher levels of air tightness (levels of 3 m3
@50Pa or below) are required, MVHR is often specified to secure a larger percentage reduction between the DER (Dwelling Emission Rate) and TER (Target
Higher levels of air tightness /h/m2
equirements for increased levels of air tightness and energy efficiency mean that around 25 per cent
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Emission Rate). A high performing MVHR system through SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) may lower the DER. For new homes, MVHR is helping to cost effectively contribute towards the
improvements in CO2 emissions required by Building Regulations. With MVHR, the incoming air is filtered, improving internal air quality and it also negates the need for window trickle vents. In addition, MVHR is an attractive option for properties requiring acoustic measures as
CONDENSATION PREVENTION
MVHR units can prevent humidity which can lead to condensation and mould growth
ADF APRIL 2018
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