Fixington

MVHR Installation

Trade: Heating Engineer

⭐ Introduction

Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) is a system designed to improve indoor air quality while reducing heat loss. It works by extracting stale, humid air from your home and replacing it with fresh, filtered air from outside. At the same time, it recovers heat from the outgoing air and uses it to warm the incoming air, helping to keep your home warm and energy efficient.

An MVHR system is particularly useful in modern, airtight homes where natural ventilation is limited. It’s often installed in new builds or major renovations to meet Building Regulations and improve energy performance. Homeowners may also consider installing MVHR when upgrading ventilation due to damp issues, condensation, or poor indoor air quality.

🔧 What the job involves

Installing an MVHR system involves several stages, typically managed by a heating or ventilation specialist:

  • Planning and surveys: A surveyor visits your home to assess suitability, airflow requirements, and where ductwork can be routed.
  • System design: The engineer designs a system tailored to your home's size and layout to ensure adequate ventilation without excessive noise.
  • Ductwork installation: This involves fitting insulated ducts throughout the property, usually in ceilings, floors, or attic spaces.
  • Unit installation: The central MVHR unit is fixed, commonly in a utility room, loft, or airing cupboard.
  • Electrical connections: The unit is wired into your home’s electrical supply and linked to control systems.
  • Commissioning and testing: The installer checks airflow rates, balances the system, and explains controls to the homeowner.

The aim is a discreet, energy-efficient ventilation system that works automatically to provide fresh air, reduce humidity, and lower heating bills.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Initial enquiry
    Contact a qualified heating or ventilation engineer to discuss your needs and arrange a survey.

  2. Home survey and quote
    The engineer visits to assess your property, reviews any existing ventilation or heating, and provides a detailed written quote including parts and labour.

  3. Scheduling the installation
    Agree on a date for the work, allowing enough time if you require additional services like building work or electrical upgrades.

  4. Preparation day
    Before the engineer arrives, clear access to your loft, airing cupboard, or other installation areas.

  5. Installation day(s)
    The engineer installs ductwork, fits the MVHR unit, completes electrical connections, and balances the system. For complex installs, the work may take a couple of days.

  6. Commissioning and handover
    Once installed, the system is tested, and the engineer will demonstrate controls and maintenance tasks.

  7. Certification and paperwork
    You should receive documentation confirming compliance with Building Regulations and any warranties.

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: Typical charges cover surveys, installation of ductwork, unit fitting, and commissioning.
  • Materials/parts: MVHR unit, insulated ducting, grilles, filters, wiring, and control systems.
  • Extras: Possible building work if walls or floors need chasing for ducts; additional electrical upgrades; noise attenuation measures.
  • Disposal: Removal and disposal of packaging or any old ventilation equipment.
  • Certification: Costs may include fees for Building Regulation compliance inspection or commissioning certificates.

Example cost breakdown (approximate):

  • Labour: £1,000 – £2,000
  • MVHR unit and parts: £1,200 – £2,500
  • Electrical work and wiring: £300 – £600
  • Building alterations (if needed): variable, typically £500+
  • Certification and paperwork: £100 – £300

📊 What affects the price

  • Property size and layout
  • Complexity of duct runs and ease of access
  • Quality and specification of the MVHR unit
  • Requirement for additional building or electrical works
  • Local labour rates and availability
  • Whether the installer is accredited and the level of certification needed
  • Urgency of the job or phased installations

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Simple retrofit or straight swap of existing unit: 1 day
  • Standard new installation in a mid-sized house: 2–3 days
  • Complex installations involving structural work or multiple zones: up to 5 days or longer

The timescale can vary depending on the complexity of duct routing and if additional trades are involved.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

Installing an MVHR system is generally not a DIY job. It requires specialist knowledge of ventilation principles, building regulations compliance, and electrical work.
Incorrect installation can cause poor air quality, excessive noise, or energy loss. The unit needs to be commissioned properly to ensure balanced airflow.
For safety and legal reasons, hiring a qualified heating or ventilation engineer (preferably one registered with a scheme like the Electrical Contractors’ Association or a Building Engineering Services Association member) is strongly recommended.

💰 Typical UK price range

A full MVHR installation in a typical semi-detached or detached home usually costs between £3,000 and £6,000 including VAT.
This estimate covers labour, parts, and certification but can vary widely based on the factors mentioned above. Always obtain detailed, written quotes.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Discuss your ventilation needs and any existing issues with your installer at the survey stage.
  • Ensure your home is well sealed for MVHR to work effectively.
  • Keep clear access to installed units and ducts for maintenance.
  • Regularly check and replace filters as advised (usually every 3–6 months).
  • Retain all installation and certification documents for warranties and future servicing.
  • Arrange for annual servicing to keep the system running efficiently and within regulations.

Starting with a professional survey and understanding your home’s ventilation requirements will help you get the best performance from your MVHR system.