Why MVHR Commissioning Should be a Breeze

At 21°, we firmly believe that our commitment to customer care extends far beyond the completion of your project. It marks the beginning of an enduring partnership focused on continual support and servicing. We have a commitment to ongoing MVHR System Support and Servicing at 21°; read how in this blog.

Commissioning

Why Commissioning Matters for Your MVHR System

Commissioning plays a pivotal role in ensuring the optimal performance and efficiency of your MVHR (Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery) system. Proper commissioning involves meticulously balancing ventilation terminals to precisely match the design’s intended airflow rates into and out of rooms. Additionally, it serves as a crucial quality control checkpoint, assessing the installation process and the system’s functionality. After the commissioning process, our dedicated engineer will provide a comprehensive system control and usability orientation to the end user. This includes valuable information on system maintenance and care. We will also introduce our 21° servicing options, designed to prolong the lifespan of your MVHR system while ensuring continued top-notch performance.

Part F of the Building regulations mandates that mechanical ventilation systems must undergo balancing and commissioning in accordance with their design. A commissioning certificate will be issued upon completion, which can be submitted to building control to meet regulatory requirements.

It is vital that the commissioning engineer is different from the individual who installed the system. At 21°, our commissioning engineers are always independent of both the designer and installer, aligning with the recommendations from the Passivhaus Trust’s ‘Good Practice Guide for MVHR.’ Moreover, the engineer responsible for commissioning is usually also responsible for subsequent system aftercare and maintenance visits, motivating them to ensure the highest standard of commissioning. We employ only the highest quality specialised equipment, including top-of-the-line anemometers and balometers, for accurate air flow measurements during commissioning.

Our superior design service ensures that MHVR systems are tailored to specific extract rates, underscoring the importance of a professional commissioning engineer adhering to this design and specific rates.

What are the consequences of an unbalanced MVHR system?

Failure to professionally commission and balance an MVHR system can have detrimental effects on its performance and efficiency. Potential issues include condensation problems, increased operational costs, accelerated wear and tear, and non-compliance with building regulations. An unbalanced MVHR system compromises air quality, negating the system’s fundamental purpose. This underscores the critical role of accurate commissioning in ensuring proper ventilation system performance.

When should commissioning be conducted?

Commissioning should be scheduled when the system is fully installed, and the site is relatively clean and dust-free. The visit typically lasts 3-4 hours, depending on factors such as unit size and location. As your installation nears completion, contact our friendly after-sales team to receive a pre-commissioning checklist. We offer nationwide commissioning services and will coordinate a mutually convenient appointment time. Prior to the visit, you will also receive a phone call from your commissioning engineer to address any questions or discuss additional requirements.

Servicing

What are the benefits of Regular Servicing

Extend the life of your MVHR system and maintain optimal performance with our servicing package. Our regular servicing offers the following benefits:

• Reduce Running Costs: Dust and dirt accumulation in filters and key components can reduce MVHR efficiency, leading to higher operational costs. Regular maintenance checks prevent this.
• High Air Quality: Without servicing, debris and grease can clog vital MVHR components, impairing their ability to filter out particles like dust and pollen. Regular servicing ensures a continuous supply of fresh, filtered air and maintains indoor air quality.
• Quiet and Efficient Operation: Clogged filters and motors can result in increased noise from the unit. During servicing, our engineer performs a deep clean of all components to ensure quiet and efficient system operation.
• Extended Lifespan: Regular maintenance prevents dirty MVHR unit components and unbalanced systems from shortening the product’s lifespan. Engineers also perform diagnostic checks to identify signs of wear and tear, avoiding potential costly repairs.

What Does a Service Entail?

A typical 21° service includes:

• Checking system airflow rates according to design specifications.
• Cleaning key MVHR unit components, fans, heat exchangers, and sensors.
• Cleaning key ducting components, such as supply and extract air valves.
• Filter replacement if needed (additional charge).
• A comprehensive MVHR diagnostic check.
• A homeowner’s refresher on MVHR functions and controller usage.
• Replacing outdated or damaged insulation (additional charge).

Service Costs and Scheduling

Service costs varying based on property location and system size. Where possible, we try to combine commissioning visits in regions to reduce cost.

Can I Perform Servicing Myself?

We recommend professional servicing by an industry expert annually to ensure effective operation and health benefits. However, if you prefer four-year servicing intervals, it’s your responsibility to perform the following yearly tasks:

• Remove extract valves and clean behind them to remove wet dust and towel lint.
• Regularly check and change filters (recommended every 6 months).
• Ensure the condensate drain is clear.
• Verify that intake and exhaust grills are clean and unblocked.

At a minimum, we strongly recommend servicing every four years to ensure ventilation rates are met. Your system’s efficiency and performance are essential for a healthy, comfortable living environment. Trust 21° for expert MVHR system support and servicing.