ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE What the latest changes to Part F mean


The latest update to Approved Document F was published earlier this year, as part of the Future Homes Standard, and whilst most major changes don’t officially come into force until March 2027, the direction of travel is now very clear. David Millward, pProduct manager at Elta Group, discusses what these changes mean for the ventilation industry


I


t’s no secret that UK homes are becoming more airtight, and energy targets are becoming stricter. Which means that ventilation systems are now expected to do a lot more than simply extract air.


Proving performance


One of the most significant changes with the new regulations is the shift towards proving performance, and not just specifying it. Essentially, it is no longer enough for a ventilation system to theoretically work.


In the past, ventilation has been seen as a box which could be ticked by installing a fan. However, with the updated guidance, there is a much bigger focus on effective commissioning, verification of system performance, and maintenance requirements. This shift represents a positive step for the industry. Properly commissioned systems are more likely to achieve their intended performance, supporting both indoor air quality and energy efficiency objectives.


The continued growth of MVHR


MVHR systems are increasingly adopted in highly airtight new-build homes because they can help deliver both ventilation and energy- efficiency objectives, which won’t come as a surprise to most people in the industry. In modern airtight homes, intermittent extract alone may not be sufficient to achieve whole- dwelling ventilation and energy performance objectives. The regulations are also now heavily


focused on reducing heat loss and improving overall energy efficiency. That means ventilation systems now need to work with low-carbon heating systems like heat pumps, rather than against them. This is where MVHR really comes into its own. It continuously supplies new filtered air, extracts stale air, and recovers heat at the same time. As a result, they are increasingly viewed as the preferred solution for many new-build applications.


Better handover, better outcomes


Another notable introduction is Regulation 40C, which requires homeowners to receive information about their ventilation systems in an accessible and understandable format. While this may appear to be a relatively minor administrative change, it has the potential to significantly improve long-term system performance. Ventilation systems can only deliver their intended benefits if they are operated and maintained correctly. Providing homeowners with clear guidance on system operation, maintenance requirements and filter replacement schedules will help ensure that installed systems continue to function effectively throughout their lifespan. This new guidance puts more responsibility on manufacturers and installers to provide simple, user-friendly information instead of overly technical paperwork.


Ductwork under the spotlight The updated guidance also places greater


emphasis on ductwork design and installation quality, which has been a long time coming. Even the most sophisticated ventilation system can fail to achieve its intended performance if poor installation practices compromise its effectiveness. Leaks, poor layouts, crushed flexible ducting and bad installation practices can massively reduce system performance and efficiency. Which is why the regulations now place more emphasis on:


• Airtight ductwork • Proper inspection • Reduced energy loss • Correct installation practices


You can have the best ventilation system in the world, but if it’s not well connected, it won’t work as it should.


Moving forward


Collectively, the new changes reflect a growing recognition of the important role ventilation plays within the built environment. Ventilation is no longer being considered as an afterthought or a standalone compliance requirement. Instead, it is becoming an integral component of building performance, energy efficiency and, perhaps most importantly, indoor air quality. For manufacturers, specifiers and installers alike, the challenge now lies in ensuring that ventilation systems do not simply comply with regulations on paper, but deliver the performance required to support healthier, more sustainable homes for the future.


DEXA dMEV


www.eltatrade.co.uk Read the latest at: www.bsee.co.uk Elta hp BSEE Jul26.indd 1


Constant running trickle & boost fan. Moving beyond intermittent extraction to deliver improved indoor air quality, comfort, and energy efficiency in modern, more airtight homes.


• EC motor optimised for continuous running. • Moves up to 90m3hr (25 L/s) • Removable front fascia for easy cleaning • Exceptional low noise levels, as low as 9 dB(A) @ 3m • Smart humidity control • Intelligent run-on timer adapts the fan operation • IPX4 rated


15/6/26 18:14 BUILDING SERVICES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER JULY 2026 13


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38