How Often Should You Replace HRV Filters (And What Happens If You Don’t)
HRV systems are essential for maintaining healthy indoor air quality and energy efficiency in modern homes. However, these benefits depend on one key factor — regular HRV filter maintenance and timely replacement.
Why HRV Filters Matter
Your HRV filters (Heat Recovery Ventilation filters) play a crucial role in keeping your indoor air clean. They capture dust, pollen, and airborne pollutants from both incoming and outgoing air. Over time, these filters collect debris, which can restrict airflow and reduce the performance of your ventilation system.
When filters become clogged:
• Airflow decreases
• Heat recovery becomes inefficient
• Energy consumption rises
• Indoor air quality deteriorates
Neglecting HRV filter cleaning can also lead to musty smells and stale indoor air — clear signs that your system needs attention.
How Often Should You Replace HRV Filters?
The recommended replacement frequency depends on your environment, filter quality, and system usage:
• Every 3 to 6 months: For homes near busy roads, in urban areas, with pets, or during high pollen seasons.
• Every 6 to 12 months: For rural or low-use homes with cleaner air conditions.
Always check your ventilation air filter condition regularly and follow your manufacturer’s guidelines. If you notice visible dirt, discoloration, or odour, it’s time for a home air filter replacement.
For example, Vent Axia MVHR filters may have different lifespans than other brands — always consult the user manual or your installer for brand-specific recommendations.
What Happens If You Don’t Replace HRV Filters?
Ignoring your HRV filter cleaning schedule can cause several issues that affect both comfort and energy efficiency:
• Increased energy bills due to restricted airflow
• Reduced heat recovery efficiency
• Poor indoor air quality and higher humidity
• Risk of condensation, mould, and moisture build-up in ductwork
• Reduced lifespan of your HRV unit
A neglected ventilation air filter makes your system work harder, wasting energy and potentially damaging internal components.
Choosing the Right HRV Filters
Always use certified replacement filters designed for your specific HRV or MVHR model. Using incompatible or low-quality filters can block airflow and reduce system efficiency.
If anyone in your household suffers from allergies or asthma, consider upgrading to high-performance filters that capture finer particles like pollen, spores, and smoke. For example, Vent Axia MVHR filters and Zehnder G4/F7 filters are excellent options for cleaner indoor air.
Note: Changing the filter type (for example, from G4 to F7) may affect airflow resistance. In such cases, your HRV system might require professional rebalancing for optimal performance.
Professional HRV Filter Replacement
Regular home air filter replacement is one of the simplest ways to protect your indoor air quality and ensure your Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) system runs efficiently for years.
Need HRV filter replacement or upgraded filters?
Contact Eco Vent Ireland for expert advice, supply, and maintenance of HRV and MVHR systems across Ireland.
More Information from HRV & MVHR Manufacturers
For detailed HRV filter maintenance and replacement guidance, refer to official manufacturer resources:
