Many UK homeowners exploring Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) wonder whether it can fully replace a traditional heating system. With the rising cost of energy, finding efficient ways to heat and ventilate homes is becoming increasingly important.
Many UK homeowners exploring Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) wonder whether it can fully replace a traditional heating system. With the rising cost of energy, finding efficient ways to heat and ventilate homes is becoming increasingly important.
The short answer is no—MVHR does not generate heat. Instead, it recovers and redistributes existing heat, reducing the demand on conventional heating systems. This means that while MVHR improves home efficiency, a separate heating system is still required, especially during colder months.
As homes become better insulated and more airtight, energy efficiency is a top priority.
MVHR provides a sustainable ventilation solution, but it does not replace heating—it simply reduces the workload of a heating system by recovering heat from extracted air.
MVHR systems operate by:
During winter, MVHR helps retain warmth inside the home, reducing heat loss. However, on extremely cold days, additional heating is still required to maintain comfortable temperatures.
A homeowner in Basingstoke installed an MVHR system alongside an air-source heat pump. Their experience:
This case study shows that MVHR and heating systems work best together rather than replacing each other.
"MVHR will keep my home warm without heating."
MVHR reduces heat loss but does not generate new heat—a separate heating system is needed.
"MVHR systems blow cold air into my home."
MVHR pre-warms incoming air, but if external temperatures are extremely low, supplementary heating is necessary.
"I don’t need to insulate my home if I install MVHR."
MVHR works best in well-insulated homes, as it retains existing heat rather than creating new warmth.
Dr. Julian Carter is a highly experienced thermal systems expert with over 15 years in the field, holding a PhD in thermal systems. His career spans academic research, consulting, and teaching, focusing on air conditioning and refrigeration systems. Dr. Carter bridges the gap between theoretical advancements and practical applications, providing expert insights to organisations like ClimateWorks, where his guidance informs decision-making and industry best practices. Notably, he has worked on international projects with organisations such as Daikin Industries, the International Institute of Refrigeration (IIR), and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). These collaborations addressed energy efficiency, sustainable refrigerants, and advanced cooling technologies. Currently a lecturer at Edinburgh University, Dr. Carter combines his expertise with a passion for educating the next generation of engineers and advancing climate control technologies.
The trusted name in air conditioning, refrigeration, and ventilation. Rely on us for exceptional service you can count on. Fully accredited for quality and safety.
ClimateWorks UK Limited, 11 Vickers House, Basingstoke RG24 9NP
Registered in England & Wales: 14878167
Copyright 2025 - ClimateWorks
.png){kind=small}
