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  • Michael
    Participant
    Post count: 2

    Is MVHR worth installing in an existing home, or does it only make sense for new builds?

    Shaun
    Participant
    Post count: 17

    Hi,

    MVHR can be worth installing in both new and existing homes, but it usually makes the most sense in new, airtight buildings. In new builds it works best because the system can control all ventilation and recover more heat.

    In existing homes it can still be useful, especially if you are doing a major renovation and improving insulation and airtightness, or if you have issues with damp, condensation, or mould. However, in older and leakier houses the energy savings are usually smaller, and the installation can be more complex and expensive.

    In short, MVHR is ideal for new or well-sealed homes, while in renovated houses it is more about comfort and moisture control than saving money.

    Kristof
    Participant
    Post count: 10

    Honestly, I think MVHR in an existing house mainly makes sense if you’re already planning a bigger renovation 🙂 If you’re doing ceilings, insulation, or replacing windows anyway, it’s much easier to think about ventilation at the same time.

    A few people I know said the biggest advantage wasn’t even the energy bills, but the overall comfort of living — fresher air, less moisture, and no need to constantly open windows during winter.

    But if the house is very old and drafty, it’s probably worth improving the insulation first, otherwise the system won’t really perform at its full potential.

    Sapphire
    Participant
    Post count: 7

    MVHR makes sense in an existing house, but mainly when you’re doing a major renovation. If you’re already replacing windows, adding insulation, or working on ceilings, it’s worth considering. It can also be installed in an older, leaky house, but it’s more difficult and expensive, and the results are not as good as in a new build. The biggest benefit is simply better air quality in the home and less humidity.

    balloon
    Participant
    Post count: 10

    Hi,
    I looked into installing MVHR in our existing house, but in the end I decided against it. Once I considered the cost and the amount of work needed to fit the ductwork, it didn’t seem like the right choice for our home.Instead, we improved the insulation and upgraded the ventilation in the kitchen and bathrooms. That solved most of our condensation issues, and we’ve been happy with the results. I still think MVHR is a great option, especially for new builds or major renovations, but it wasn’t the best fit for our situation.

    • This reply was modified 6 days, 2 hours ago by balloon.
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