MVHR: A Comprehensive Beginners Guide
Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) has become a cornerstone of modern, high‑performance homes. As buildings become more airtight to meet energy and carbon targets, traditional ventilation strategies are no longer sufficient. MVHR systems provide continuous, controlled ventilation while recovering heat that would otherwise be lost — improving comfort, indoor air quality, and energy efficiency.
This guide explains what MVHR is, how it works, where it makes sense, and what designers, developers, and self‑builders should consider when specifying a system — particularly in airtight timber‑frame buildings.