Air conditioning & ventilation
more sustainable W
Why MVHR systems help make housing
Marc Salvatore, business development manager for indoor climate solutions at Wavin, explains the broader advantages of MVHR systems for developers, large-scale projects and end-users
ith shifts in national leadership and resulting policy changes around housebuilding targets, the sector faces
a range of challenges in the coming years. As demand for new houses is at an all-time high – with an estimated 300,000 new homes needed to keep on track – and with sustainability firmly on the agenda, developers need solutions that not only deliver but work in tandem to meet goals and ESG commitments. Mechanical Ventilation & Heat Recovery (MVHR)
systems may not be the first product that springs to mind to aid progress, but there are a range of areas where MVHR can support developers, while keeping environmental impact to a minimum.
The sustainable, energy-efficient option
Modern MVHR systems were designed to alleviate pressures facing traditional heating systems. These solutions work by effectively passing air over a heat exchanger to introduce ambient temperatures into a space, while filtering out common pollutants, including dust and other air-borne debris. This ensures there is minimal negative ingress from outside, contributing to better indoor air quality and
environmental health. When paired with effective insulation, the long- term benefits for both residents and developers are clear, with a significant reduction in energy consumption (especially for properties using newer heating methods). Solutions such as Wavin’s Ventiza range can lead to a 30–50% reduction in energy consumption and ensure that minimal amounts of electricity are needed to heat a property. The benefits of this are two-fold, developers can provide sustainable housing at scale, while shielding future tenants from rising energy bills and supporting broader environmental goals. Another recurring challenge for housebuilders is ensuring that the airflow provided is balanced with airtightness and energy efficiency. Traditional ventilation methods often allow cold air in from outdoor, driving up energy consumption battling the incoming cold front and negatively impacting a home’s environmental footprint. Conversely, MVHR systems, through their heat exchangers, provide a consistent supply of warm fresh air. These solutions work in tandem with existing systems, to ensure a comfortable and sustainable living environment all year round. Many MVHR solutions also come equipped with smart controls, which give residents complete oversight on consumption and energy efficiency, while maintaining warmth.
A competitive edge
Beyond sustainability, there are a variety of wider benefits of MVHR systems for both developers and residents.
Meeting ambitious housebuilding targets requires adhering to strict project timelines. When installing
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traditional ventilation systems, the inflexibility can disrupt installation and delay project completion. Modern MVHR systems are more flexible and pliable, allowing developers to choose options that best suit the size and nature of the space in which they’re being fit. Where a range of sizes is available, as with the Ventiza range, end-users won’t be burdened with unnecessarily large systems that end up driving up consumption and, consequently, bills. A range of sizes is also beneficial for developers
who are involved in urban projects and those that are tight on space. In the long-term this can ensure that housebuilding projects are delivered effectively, within the given time and space constraints. These systems also act as a front-line defence against mould and damp, mitigating significant health risks. By ensuring a through-flow of air, properties remain better ventilated, mitigating the risks of condensation, dampness and mould. This gives developers a competitive edge on critical issues, making properties more attractive to future tenants and bolstering quality credentials.
A breath of fresh air
If housing developers are to provide future-proof, sustainable housing, then ventilation and heating technology must be a key consideration. With the UK’s 2050 Net Zero goal edging closer and communities now acutely aware of the impacts of mould and dampness on health, MVHR systems are an obvious choice for new developments. Heating and ventilation are of course critical
concerns for tenants, homeowners and developers, especially amid the cost-of-living-crisis, fuel shortages stemming from global conflict and an increasing focus on sustainability in new developments. With this in mind then, it’s key that developers can provide ventilation solutions that not only benefit end-users financially and health-wise, but that also work towards supporting their own sustainability targets and deliverables.
www.heatingandventilating.net
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