Why MVHR Filters Matter: The Key to Clean, Efficient Ventilation
Maintaining healthy indoor air quality is more important than ever and an MVHR system plays a crucial role in this. At the heart of this system lies the filters, which serve two primary purposes:
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Protecting the System: They prevent dust, debris, and other particles from entering the heat exchanger and ventilation ducts, ensuring the system runs efficiently.
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Improving Indoor Air Quality: They filter out pollutants like pollen, dust, and even smaller particulates, ensuring the air supplied to your home is clean and healthy.
These often-overlooked components are essential for keeping the air in your home clean while ensuring your system runs efficiently. So why do MVHR filters matter, why is regular maintenance essential and how do you keep your system performing at its best?
Types of MVHR Filters
MVHR filters are categorised based on their filtration efficiency:
G Filters (Coarse Filters):
Usually G3 or G4 rated.
Capture larger particles like dust and hair.
Typically used for incoming and outgoing air.
F Filters (Fine Filters):
Usually F7 rated.
Capture smaller particles like pollen and fine dust.
Often used in the supply air stream for better indoor air quality.
HEPA Filters (High-Efficiency Particulate Air):
Optional in some systems.
Capture very fine particles, including allergens and some bacteria.
Five Reasons to Change Your MVHR Filters Regularly
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Protect Indoor Air Quality
MVHR filters trap dust, pollen, and pollutants from incoming air, ensuring your space stays fresh and healthy. Clogged or dirty filters allow contaminants to circulate, impacting the air you breathe. -
Improve System Efficiency
Clean filters enable your MVHR system to operate efficiently. When filters are clogged, the system works harder, increasing energy consumption and the risk of mechanical strain. -
Prevent Costly Repairs
Dirty filters can lead to blocked ducts and damage the heat exchanger, resulting in costly repairs. Regular filter changes are a small investment that can save significant maintenance costs. -
System Lifespan
Clean filters reduce wear on system components, prolonging the MVHR’s operational life. -
Helps Keep Noise Levels Low
Blocked filters will put strain on the motors, causing them to work harder and increasing motor noise
When and How to Change Your MVHR Filters
How Often Should You Change Them?
Most manufacturers recommend changing MVHR filters every 6 to 12 months, depending on usage and environmental conditions. In areas with higher pollution or pollen, checking filters every 3 to 6 months is wise. Some coarse filters can be gently cleaned with a vacuum, but fine filters usually need replacing.
How to Change MVHR Filters
- Turn off the system.
- Open the filter access panel.
- Remove old filters and check for excessive dust or damage.
- Insert the new filters, ensuring the airflow direction matches the markings.
- Close the panel and restart the system.
Why should I pay attention to my filters?
Regularly changing your MVHR filters ensures cleaner air, lower energy costs, and a longer lifespan for your ventilation system. It’s a small task that delivers big rewards for both comfort and efficiency. If you don't, they could end up looking like this:
To find out more about the brands we stock, please check out our Filters Page and if you have any questions, or you're not sure which filter you need, please contact us on mvhr@epicair.co.uk or call 01892 600121.
