Designing a Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) system demands thoughtful planning to achieve top-tier performance, energy efficiency, and superior indoor air quality. Whether you’re constructing a new home or upgrading an existing property, supplying accurate and comprehensive details from the outset is crucial. These notes highlight the essential information and files we need to kick off your MVHR system design. Providing everything upfront helps us save time, streamline the process, and ensure a smooth experience for everyone involved. Don’t worry if you’re missing some details—we can often work around it—but having them ready will make things even smoother!
1. Layout Files
We prefer layouts in CAD format (DWG/DXF) for maximum efficiency. If CAD files aren’t available, high-resolution PDFs will suffice, though this may delay the design process as they need conversion to CAD. These digital blueprints, rich with data, allow architects, engineers, and contractors to position MVHR components precisely within your project.
2. Section Drawings – Floor Construction Information
Section drawings illustrate the vertical alignment of floors, walls, roofs, and foundations, detailing structural elements like beams, columns, slabs, and load-bearing walls. These enable our designers to ensure the system complies with your project’s specifications.
3. Joists
We need details on joist types (e.g., web joists, timber joists, JJI/TJI/I-beams) and their direction or layout. If this isn’t available, please provide ceiling void space dimensions, along with steel layouts and positions. This information helps us design duct runs that avoid structural obstacles.
4. MVHR Unit Location
If you have no preference for the MVHR unit’s location (e.g., loft, utility room, hallway, storage, or plant room), our designer will choose an optimal spot—typically near the house’s centre. If you have a specific location in mind, let us know, and we’ll design accordingly.
5. Ducting
Do you have a preference for ducting materials, such as steel or insulated foam for the mass flow ducts to/from the atmosphere? For interior distribution, we’ll default to a radial system unless you request otherwise. Learn more in our blog: “What Do I Need to Know About MVHR Ducting?”
6. Rise & Drop Locations
Are there designated spots for ducting rises or drops? In building design, these refer to vertical transitions for utilities like plumbing, electrical, or MVHR systems through the structure. Please specify if any locations are identified.
7. Atmosphere Terminations
What are your preferred termination points for the MVHR system—wall, soffit, or roof vent? The unit requires two mass flow ducts (intake and exhaust) connecting to the atmosphere. Indicate your ideal placement and whether you prefer roof, wall, or soffit terminations.
8. System Controls – Wi-Fi, Localised, or Both?
Most MVHR units automatically adjust airflow based on humidity levels. Additional controls, from manual speed settings to Wi-Fi app integration, can be tailored to your preferences. Let us know what you’d like.
9. Additional Requirements
Do you have specific needs for your MVHR system, such as noise attenuation or NOx filters? Please share any priorities you’d like addressed.
10. Next Steps
Please send all the above information to mvhr@epicair.co.uk. For further questions, please feel free to contact us at 01892 600121—we’re here to help!
If you would like to find out more about MVHR systems or need clarification, we also have an excellent bank of information on MVHR topics which you can find here.
