Problem Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery systems.

A Northern Ireland supplier of MVHR is now supplying kits for others to install. In the box comes a completed “Commissioning Certificate”.

The definition of commissioning –
“Process by which an equipment, facility, or plant (which is installed, or is complete or near completion) is tested to verify if it functions according to its design objectives or specifications”.
How can a completed Commissioning Certificate be dispatched with the kit?

A properly specified, well installed MVHR system is an excellent essential in a energy efficient home with a high degree of airtightness. But there are many disappointments. Recently, when a two year old system was investigated it was found that the extract side has never worked. The steel ducting used was covered with mould. Many systems have noise problems. Some systems dry the indoor air causing discomfort in the nose and sinuses.

If you have stayed in a hotel with air conditioning you have experienced two of the major problems – noise and drying of the air. Similar problems are caused by many HRV systems. Homes in Ireland need big air changes per air due to the very moist climate. Most systems try to avoid this to boost their percentage heat recovery efficiency figure.

Never buy a kit to be fitted by an untrained person.
Never buy a counterflow heat exchanger.
Never buy a system with small, basic filters.
Never buy mini bore ducting.

The choice – buy a fully specified, professionally installed system or revert to natural ventilation.