• Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer

Allan Corfield Architects

Self Build Architects based in Scotland, operating all over the UK.

  • Self Build
    • WHAT IS A SELF BUILD? – EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
    • ‘INTRODUCTION TO SELF BUILDING’ EBOOK
    • How to find a Self Build Plot
    • Self Build Construction Methods
    • Financing Your Self Build
    • Site Insurance, Structural Warranty & Legal Expenses
    • Setting Timescales For Your Self Build
    • Designing An Energy Efficient Self Build
    • What Is SIPS Construction?
    • Log Homes
    • Home Design: A Step-By-Step Guide To Designing Your Dream Home
    • SELF BUILD WITH ACA
  • Portfolio
  • Services
    • ONLINE DESIGN CONSULTATION
    • SELF BUILD HOMES WITH AC ARCHITECTS
    • PASSIVE HOUSE DESIGN & CERTIFICATION
    • HOUSE EXTENSIONS
    • VIRTUAL REALITY WITH ACA
    • Self Build Seminars with ACA
    • STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING
    • Quantity Surveying Service with CLPM
  • About
    • ACA BACKGROUND
    • Allan Corfield
    • Meet The Team
    • Careers| Architectural jobs at ACA
    • STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING
  • Self Build Blog
  • Learning Centre
  • Contact
  • Search

Fresh Air, Fresh Perspectives: Benefits of MVHR Systems

Tagged With: Construction Professionals, low energy homes, MVHR, passive house, passivhaus, Renewables, Self Build04/02/2016 By Allan Corfield6 Comments

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Pinterest
  • LinkedIn
Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery: A System You Can Rely On

With changes to energy regulations in house building scheduled for 2016, there are more and more Self Builders sounding out ways of making their homes as energy-efficient as possible. Whether they gain the official rating or not, many strive to emulate the PassiveHaus building standard – which is focussed on an extremely airtight, fabric-first and highly energy-efficient design. Having such an airtight structure requires a high-quality ventilation system, in order to create a healthy environment within your home.

Without a good ventilation system, your home can fall victim to a number of problems. Any moisture in the air can form condensation, encouraging the growth of mould. Subsequently, dust mites tend to flourish in damp conditions, and this can lead to an increase in dust-related allergies or asthma. Things you might not even think of can remain in circulation throughout your home without a sufficient ventilation system; paint, cleaning products, and carpets can all release harmful organic compounds. On top of all this, there are also everyday odours from cooking, toilets, tobacco, and pets floating around the home.

So what ventilation systems are available for your Self Build? There are a number of ventilation systems, but they tend to fall short if you are striving for energy efficiency in your home. Here are a few examples:

Extractor Fans – Extractor fan systems can be easily installed, and the pollutants found around the home can be removed quite quickly. However, they have a tendency to waste heat easily via trickle vents, they can be rather noisy, and can be prone to letting draughts in.

Passive Stack Ventilation – This system avoids using electric fans by employing a ‘stack’ effect, in order to draw warm air up from wet rooms through ducts. Despite being initially useful for lowering electricity use, the lack of pressure differences can affect air flow. This means some rooms will be warmer than others, and this can enhance the need to open a window, or add a central fan during warmer weather. Without an even distribution of heat, there is a similar wastage of heat to an Extractor Fan system.

Central Extract Ventilation – Using this system will remove contaminated air from wet rooms, and replace it with fresh air through trickle vents, together with the air leakage from habitable rooms. Like the Extractor Fan and Passive Stack systems, the Central Extract Ventilation system can waste heat, and can create draughts through the trickle vents.

Pinterest

Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery System (MVHR)

An alternative ventilation system to the ones mentioned above, is the Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery System – or MVHR. This system provides an ideal ventilation solution, and the technology couldn’t be more straightforward. Stale air is taken away from ‘wet’ rooms in the home through a combination of hidden ducts. This air passes through a heat exchanger in the unit of the main system, which is installed discreetly in an attic, garage or cupboard. UK-based experts, ADM Systems, explain that the MVHR system works much in the same way our own bodies work:

HAVE YOU SEEN OUR PROJECT IN GLENEAGLES?

gleneagles self build home

Have a look at our low energy project in Gleneagles that had installed the Mechanical Ventilation and Heat Recovery system.

READ MORE

“Just as our lungs filter and transfer essential oxygen into our blood, before sending it around our bodies via our arteries – so a heat recovery ventilation unit brings fresh air into your home, distributing it through a series of ducts. As our bodies expel carbon dioxide from our lungs into our veins – the heat recovery ventilation system simultaneously draws polluted air out of the home through separate ducts, passing it through the main unit, before being released into the atmosphere.

The stale air is taken through the ducts from the ‘wet rooms’ in the house, such as kitchens and bathrooms. This air then passes through to the ventilation unit and over the heat exchanger – which can recover as much as 90% of the heat in this air that would typically be lost in traditional means of ventilation. At the same time, fresh air is continuously brought in from the atmosphere, filtered to remove the likes of pollen, carbon, and insects, before it passes over the heat exchanger and ducted through the rest of the house – providing a balanced ventilation system and clean air.

Heat recovery ventilation systems also work well with alternative central heating options, such as underfloor heating, wood burning stoves, and renewable energy sources, e.g. photo-voltaic panels and wind turbines. Introducing a ground-to-air heat exchanger further maximises efficiency by harnessing natural geo-thermal energy.”

PREPARE FOR YOUR SELF BUILD JOURNEY.
ATTEND OUR SELF BUILD SEMINAR!

Are you considering building your own self-build dream home? Join the top industry experts on the for a full day seminar at the National Self Build & Renovating Centre!

BOOK YOUR PLACE!

The heat recovery products can help to reduce a building’s carbon emissions by reclaiming and redistributing the heat into the property which would have been wasted if a traditional system had been used instead. Unlike these traditional systems, such as trickle vents or extractor fans, little or no thermal bridging occurs from using a MVHR system. The energy saved using the MVHR contributes to a reduced Dwelling Emission Rate (DER) in the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP). MVHR systems also offer huge benefits towards achieving building standards. Heat recovery uses just a few Watts of energy (<1W/l/s) to recover many kiloWatts of otherwise wasted heat from conventional ventilation systems. This results in lower energy bills and carbon emissions.

ADM Systems point out that, as part of the 2010 Building Regulations Approved Document L consultation workshop, it was highlighted that modern buildings can lose up to 25% of heat through uncontrolled ventilation and air leakage. The heat recovery technology in MVHR can recover upwards of 90% of this heat – confirming its status as a practical and energy efficient ventilation solution.

Brian Singleton, of ADM Systems, answered some of our key questions Self Builder’s might have about MVHR systems:

MVHR
MVHR

What is the average unit cost for a 4-bedroom family home?

There are many MVHR units on the market, currently over 200 in SAP Appendix Q and over 70 Passive House Accredited. Some units come with basic features through to more sophisticated, integrated controls. The range of prices for a typical 4 bed Self Build would be from £3500 to £4500 depending on the specification and size of the property. The running costs for a properly designed and installed system would be in the region of £50 to £70 annually.

What maintenance do the MVHR systems require?

The main maintenance is the cleaning and changing of filters twice a year. Most can be cleaned and used again 2 or 3 times before replacing. The filter costs vary from £30 to £60 depending on the manufacturer. The heat exchanger would also need inspection every 2 years or so. It is removable and washable, and all maintenance on MVHR systems is something that can be done by the homeowner.

Can Self Builders install the MVHR system themselves and get you to commission them?

Very much so, over 50% of our projects are self-install following the sweat equity route, either by clients themselves or one of their trades. We provide them with schematic layouts and installation instructions and technical support and site visits. The radial duct system is very attractive for Self Builders as it is easier, quicker, and more fail-safe for self-install.

WANT TO STAY UPDATED WITH SELF BUILDING?

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER TO LEARN MORE ABOUT SELF BUILDING

SUBSCRIBE ME!

Who are the market leaders in the industry at the moment?

There are two distinct markets for MVHR Multi Site Applications: First, there is the main builder, covering the likes of social housing, or the Olympic Village type of projects, for example. These projects are very price-driven and manufacturer-led by companies such as VentAxia and Greenwood AirVac.

Then, there is the the Self Build market. Currently, there are around 15,000 Self Builds per annum – representing 14% of the total new homes built in the UK. This is set to rise to 25,000 new homes by 2020. Manufacturers are active in the Self Build market, however, this is not their core business – so companies such as ADM Systems offer bespoke solutions, and are better suited to the Self Build market.

What separates ADM Systems from the competition?

ADM are an independent company dealing with many manufacturers, so we can offer choice to suit the project. We have been in the marketplace since the early 90s, and have a wealth of experience. ADM Systems are not just suppliers of Heat Recovery Ventilation – we offer a full range of ‘buddy’ services for Self Builders installing their own heat recovery systems. We also offer Compliance advice, complete installation by BPEC approved engineers, and full ventilation system maintenance and aftercare packages. We also offer ground to air heat exchangers to enhance your MVHR system, and central vacuum systems.

ONLINE DESIGN CONSULTATIONS WITH ACA

Are you considering building a Self Build home? If so, book a video call with one of our experts. We can talk you through everything you need to know from reviewing a site, to what goes into designing an energy-efficient house and so much more.
READ MORE

What would be your top tips for new Self Builders?

Step 1: Think ‘Fabric First’ – consider a thermal strategy early and strive for airtightness from your Self Build

Step 2: Determine the level of heat required for your Self Build.

Step 3: You have to consider how to ventilate – ventilation can represent a huge percentage of the heat loss in a building, and this can have an impact on the first two steps. Think carefully about your system’s location – you may find planning regulations can dictate that certain conditions are met.

Controlled ventilation = Controlled heat loss (MVHR), whereas Uncontrolled Ventilation = Uncontrolled Heat Loss.

Therefore, ‘Build Airtight, Ventilate Right’ – remember this and you should be on course for a brilliant, energy-efficient Self Build.

What stage would you (ADM Systems) need to get involved in a Self Build project looking to utilise a MVHR system?

As early as possible. Initial sizing can be done from any architectural or planning drawings, before detailed design and liaison with the client, architect, kit supplier and structural engineers takes place. This liaison and cooperation helps to integrate the system into the structure smoothly, whilst maintaining the aesthetics of the internal finish.

HAVE YOU SEEN OUR PROJECT IN EDINBURGH?

self build sips edinburgh

Have a look at our project in Edinburgh that was built from Structural Insulated Panels and featured in ‘Building the dream’ TV Show run by Charlie Luxton.

READ MORE

You can find more articles about other renewables below:

  • Choosing an energy-efficient water heating solution for my Self Build
  • Photovoltaic systems: Solar PV from Ceiba Renewables
  • Air Source Heat Pumps: everything you need to know
  • Designing your Self Build heating system – Mollison HPR
  • Maximise your renewables: Sunamp Heat Batteries

Our special thanks go to Brian Singleton and ADM Systems for their help and contribution to this blog. Along with ACA, Brian offers his expert advice at Self Build Seminars – hosted by our friends at SIPS Industries throughout the year. For more information, or to sign up to the next seminar, click here.

DOWNLOAD OUR FREE SELF BUILD EBOOK!

Are you considering building your own self-build dream home? If so, download our free ‘introduction to self building’ ebook.

DOWNLOAD
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Pinterest
  • LinkedIn

Related Posts

  • Interior Designer Design ACA Self Build Allan Corfield
    The Benefits Of Using An Interior Designer For Your Self Build

  • Sunamp Feature Image
    Maximise Your Renewables: Sunamp Heat Batteries

  • working self-build architect stages project
    Working With A Self-Build Architect - Stages Of A Self-Build Project

Filed Under: Blog, Have Building Regs, Have Planning, Purchased A Plot, Self Build Design

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Moving Home says

    15/03/2016 at 11:54 pm

    Very interesting.

    Reply
  2. Brian Jones says

    26/10/2016 at 8:13 pm

    Shortly building a 3 bed dormer bungalow, need price estimate

    Reply
    • Allan Corfield says

      21/11/2016 at 5:14 pm

      Brian, thanks for the enquiry if you would like a fixed fee proposal for carrying out the required architectural service then please use the enquiry form on the contact us page https://www.acarchitects.biz/contact-us/

      Reply
  3. Robert B says

    06/03/2018 at 1:23 pm

    Does an MVHR mean that all rooms will be at the same temperature, regardless of where the heating source is?

    Reply
    • Allan Corfield says

      06/03/2018 at 3:17 pm

      Generally, that is the case. However, there are a few things that can affect the temperature in each room.

      Commissioning of the MVHR system can have an impact on temperature in each room, the use of room-specific radiators such as towel radiators can be used. As well as the introduction of post heaters if you would like a certain room to be consistently warmer (although this option is rare).

      The ideal spread of temperature is 20℃ in main living areas (lounge, dining, kitchen, utility), 18℃ in bedrooms and 22℃ in bathrooms. However, this will depend on the efficiency of the MVHR system, the air-tightness result and thermal performance of your building.

      Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Footer

Allan Corfield Architects Ltd |
The North – Lewis House, Unit 213 East Way,
Hillend Industrial Estate, Hillend, Dunfermline, FIFE, KY11 9JF

The South – National Self Build & Renovation Centre
Lydiard Fields, Great Western Way, Swindon SN5 8UB

T 03333 444217 | E info@acarchitects.biz

Type and Press “enter” to Search

 

  • Self Build
  • Portfolio
  • Services
  • About
  • Self Build Blog
  • Learning Centre
  • Contact
  • Search

Copyright © 2018 | Website Design by Jammy Digital

Manage Cookie Consent
To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behaviour or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
Functional Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
Manage options Manage services Manage vendors Read more about these purposes
View preferences
{title} {title} {title}