At Allsopp Construction, we’ve seen growing interest in Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems for new builds. We’ve installed these systems in developments across Breaston, Halam, Beeston Fields, and Rolleston on Dove, with ongoing projects at Breedon on the Hill and Cloud Lodge near Ashbourne.
These systems are becoming increasingly popular as more
homeowners recognise their benefits for comfort, air quality, and energy
efficiency. MVHR systems work by extracting stale, humid air from a property
while simultaneously bringing in fresh air from outside. The great thing about
these systems is their ability to recover up to 95% of the heat from the
extracted air and transfer it to the incoming fresh air, minimising energy
waste while maintaining a comfortable living environment.
The benefits go beyond ventilation. Energy efficiency
improves, heating costs drop, and properties see better EPC ratings with lower
carbon footprints. Continuous fresh air circulation also helps remove allergens
and pollutants, and maintain ideal humidity levels throughout the year.
Implementing an MVHR system requires careful planning and
integration during the construction process. We work with the chosen supplier
early in the construction phase to make sure we have a detailed system
specification. Ducting is typically installed within suspended ceiling voids
during the first-fix phase, making it a seamless part of the building’s
structure. The MVHR unit is installed during the second fix.
From a building protection perspective, MVHR systems help
prevent condensation, preserving structural integrity and reducing maintenance
needs over time. Installation requires integrating ducting within suspended
ceiling voids during the first-fix phase and careful testing to ensure optimal
performance.
The systems typically cost around £3,500 for a 500m²
property. While the upfront investment can seem significant, the long-term
energy savings, better air quality, and potential property value enhancement
often make it worthwhile.
Here at Allsopp Construction, we believe MVHR systems are a
valuable addition to any new build, and their growing popularity reflects this.
As building regulations evolve and sustainability becomes increasingly
important in construction, we expect to see these systems more frequently integrated
into new developments. We anticipate that MVHR systems may eventually become a
standard feature in modern building practices and potentially even a regulatory
requirement.
For those interested in learning more about integrating MVHR systems into their construction projects, we’re happy to discuss specific requirements and provide detailed information about implementation options.
