🚨 When was your last MVHR service? Delaying maintenance could leave your business non-compliant and vulnerable to fines. 🚨
In today's world, sustainability, energy efficiency, and air quality are critical for businesses operating in commercial properties. At the heart of these priorities lies the Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery (MVHR) system, which provides efficient ventilation while recovering and reusing heat. However, like all mechanical systems, MVHR units require regular maintenance to function optimally.
This blog is your comprehensive guide to MVHR servicing for commercial properties, covering why it's necessary, what it entails, and how Knight Engineers ensures your system stays in peak condition. Whether you're a property manager, building owner, or business operator, this guide will provide the insights you need to keep your MVHR system running smoothly.
What is an MVHR System, and How Does It Work?
An MVHR system is a specialised ventilation unit designed to enhance energy efficiency while maintaining excellent air quality. Here's how it works:
Extracts stale air from inside the building.
Recovers heat from the outgoing air.
Supplies fresh air into the building, pre-warmed by the recovered heat.
This system ensures your commercial property benefits from fresh, clean air without wasting energy, making it ideal for offices, retail spaces, healthcare facilities, and industrial sites. However, MVHR units need regular servicing, like any complex system, to continue delivering these benefits.
Why is MVHR Servicing Essential for Commercial Properties?
Sustained Energy Efficiency
A clean, well-maintained MVHR system can significantly reduce energy consumption by reusing heat you would otherwise lose. However, dirt, debris, and wear can reduce its efficiency, leading to increased energy bills. Regular servicing ensures the heat exchanger and ductwork remain clear and efficient.
Enhanced Air Quality
The air we breathe inside commercial properties affects health, productivity, and overall satisfaction. Dirty filters and poorly maintained MVHR systems can circulate pollutants, allergens, and unpleasant odours. Regular servicing prevents these issues, ensuring a healthier environment for employees and visitors.
Compliance with Regulations
In the UK, commercial properties are subject to regulations around indoor air quality and energy efficiency, such as the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) requirements. Regular MVHR servicing ensures your building meets these standards, avoiding potential fines and legal issues.
Prevent Costly Repairs
An MVHR system is a significant investment, and neglecting its maintenance can lead to expensive breakdowns or even the need for a total replacement. Scheduled servicing identifies and resolves minor issues before they escalate into major problems.
Improved System Longevity
With proper care, an MVHR system can last many years, delivering consistent performance and reducing your total cost of ownership. Servicing extends the lifespan of your unit by minimising wear and tear.
What Does MVHR Servicing Involve?
MVHR servicing is a multi-step process that ensures your system operates efficiently and safely. At Knight Engineers, our MVHR servicing for commercial properties includes:
Full System Inspection
Our engineers perform a thorough examination of the MVHR system, looking for signs of wear, leaks, or inefficiencies. This step includes:
Checking airflow rates.
Inspecting seals and duct connections.
Identifying potential energy losses.
Cleaning and Replacing Filters
Filters are crucial for maintaining air quality. We:
Remove and clean or replace clogged filters.
Ensure filters meet manufacturer and regulatory standards.
Dirty filters can block airflow and increase strain on the system, reducing its efficiency and effectiveness.
Heat Exchanger Maintenance
The heat exchanger is the heart of your MVHR system. We:
Check for blockages or damage.
Clean the unit to optimise heat recovery efficiency.
A properly functioning heat exchanger ensures your system provides the energy savings it was designed for.
Ductwork Cleaning
Over time, dust and debris can accumulate in ductwork, restricting airflow and reducing efficiency. We clean ducts to ensure smooth airflow and prevent contaminants from circulating.
Balancing and Testing
Balancing the airflow ensures all areas of your commercial property receive consistent ventilation. This step also includes testing system performance to identify any anomalies.
Software and Controls Update
Modern MVHR systems use software for monitoring and control. We update and calibrate these systems to ensure precise operation.
How Often Should You Service Your MVHR System?
For commercial properties, servicing frequency depends on factors like system size, usage, and environmental conditions. However, here are some general guidelines:
Every 3-6 months: Check and replace filters, especially in high-usage environments like office buildings or healthcare facilities.
Annually: Perform a full inspection and maintenance of the system, including heat exchanger cleaning and ductwork checks.
After major events: Renovations, construction, or environmental changes may require additional servicing.
By sticking to a regular maintenance schedule, you ensure your MVHR system continues to deliver optimal performance year-round.
What Are the Risks of Skipping MVHR Servicing?
Failing to service your MVHR system can result in:
Higher energy costs due to reduced efficiency.
Poor air quality that impacts health and productivity.
Increased risk of breakdowns and costly repairs.
Non-compliance with legal standards, potentially leading to fines.
In contrast, regular servicing is a small investment that pays off by reducing long-term costs and ensuring your property remains safe and efficient.
How Knight Engineers Can Help
At Knight Engineers, we specialise in the installation, servicing, and maintenance of MVHR systems for commercial properties. Our team of experienced professionals understands the unique challenges of maintaining ventilation systems in busy environments.
Why Choose Us?
Expertise: We have a proven track record of working with MVHR systems across industries.
Custom Solutions: We tailor our services to your property's specific needs.
Minimal Disruption: We prioritise efficiency and work around your schedule to avoid interfering with daily operations.
Sustainability Focus: Our services are designed to maximise energy savings and reduce your carbon footprint.
Tips for Maintaining Your MVHR System Between Services
While professional servicing is essential, here are a few tips to keep your MVHR system in top shape between maintenance visits:
Check Filters Regularly: Clean or replace filters every 3-6 months, especially in high-usage properties.
Monitor Airflow: Pay attention to reduced airflow or unusual noises, which could indicate blockages.
Keep Vents Clear: Ensure furniture or equipment doesn't obstruct vents, allowing for proper circulation.
Schedule Preventive Maintenance: Don't wait for problems to arise—stick to a proactive servicing plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I perform MVHR maintenance myself?
While basic tasks like filter cleaning can be done in-house, professional servicing is recommended for a thorough inspection and maintenance of complex components like heat exchangers and ductwork.
How much does MVHR servicing cost?
Costs vary depending on the size and condition of your system. Contact Knight Engineers for a free quote tailored to your system.
What signs indicate my MVHR system needs servicing?
Look out for reduced airflow, unusual noises, unpleasant odours, or higher energy bills—these could all signal maintenance issues.
Conclusion: Keeping Your MVHR System in Peak Condition
Regular MVHR servicing for commercial properties is essential for energy efficiency, air quality, and compliance. By partnering with Knight Engineers, you ensure your system operates at its best, providing long-term benefits for your business.
Contact Us Today
Ready to schedule your MVHR service? Reach out to Knight Engineers for expert maintenance tailored to your needs. Let us help you breathe easier, save energy, and keep your property compliant.
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