VHR is an attractive solution for new-build properties since it not only extracts damaging pollutants but also allows the air coming into the home to be filtered, taking out harmful airborne bacteria and contaminants. MVHR is also highly energy-efficient, giving developers valuable reductions in dwelling emissions rates and is designed with silence a key parameter.
So, what should house-builders consider when specifying MVHR to help improve IAQ?
Filtration
MVHR filters can remove pollen, debris and products of pollution, helping ensure the indoor air is cleaner and healthier than air coming in via a window. Filters up to ISO ePM2.5 70% (F7 grade) ensure even homes in heavily urbanised areas can filter out most impurities, up to and including PM2.5 particles, e.g. diesel particulates. A filter-check warning can alert households when filters need changing, helping maintain the quality of incoming air.
Controls
An integral infinitely variable fan speed control on supply and extract is vital for effective, efficient ventilation. Since moisture is the most common household pollutant leading to mould growth, an integral humidity sensor is also essential to improving IAQ, increasing fan speed in proportion to relative humidity levels, saving energy and reducing noise for households. This type of sensor reacts to small but rapid increases in humidity, even if the normal trigger threshold is not reached, ensuring adequate ventilation, even for the smallest wetroom. A night-time relative humidity setback feature suppresses nuisance tripping as humidity gradually increases with falling temperature.
App commissioning
App-controlled MVHR units allow consumers to monitor efficiency, boost airflow, schedule ventilation or order filters. They can also aid commissioning, helping ensure optimum performance, so improving IAQ. The latest controls with Wi-Fi connection via an app offer a commissioning process which removes the need for installers to repeatedly return to the unit during airflow commissioning. A simple idea enabled by a smartphone app makes a huge difference to installation ease and speed, encouraging best practice.
