Professional Heat Recovery Ventilation Systems – Design, Supply & Installation in Ireland
A well-designed heat recovery ventilation system (MVHR system) keeps fresh, filtered air moving through your home while retaining valuable warmth that would normally escape. As a result, homeowners reduce heating demand, control condensation, and maintain continuous airflow in line with Irish Building Regulations.
Moreover, our heat recovery system Ireland solutions combine efficiency, comfort, and compliance — all delivered by trained NZEB-certified installers. We operate across Leinster, including Dublin and nearby counties, ensuring every design aligns with the 2025 revisions to Parts F and L.
What Is a Heat Recovery Ventilation System and How It Works
Balanced Airflow and Measured Performance
A heat recovery ventilation unit, often called an MVHR system (Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery), balances supply and extract airflow. Stale air leaves kitchens and wet rooms, while equal volumes of filtered air enter bedrooms and living areas.
Importantly, we measure airflow performance in litres per second (l/s) and record these values during commissioning. Consequently, your MVHR system comes with documented proof of compliance and performance.
Heat Recovery and Energy Efficiency Metrics
A high-performance heat recovery system transfers warmth from outgoing to incoming air. Therefore, your main heating system operates less frequently, improving efficiency. Typically, designers target heat recovery efficiencies of 90% or more and maintain Specific Fan Power (SFP) below 1.2 W/(l/s).
These energy metrics support Part L calculations and are confirmed during mechanical ventilation system commissioning
Comfort, IAQ and Moisture Control
Continuous ventilation ensures filtered, balanced airflow throughout your home. As a result, CO₂, VOCs, and humidity levels remain stable, reducing mould risks and improving indoor air quality.
In addition, our heat recovery ventilation systems comply fully with TGD Part F and retrofit guidance under S.R. 54:2014.
Why Choose Eco Vent for MVHR System Installation
01 – Compliance-Driven Design
Every MVHR system we design meets current and upcoming Irish regulations. In line with the 2025 revisions to Parts F and L, we prioritise measured airflows, low SFPs, and detailed documentation
02 – NSAI and Ventilation Validation
Our engineers commission and balance each MVHR system and provide a full handover pack aligned with NSAI validation and the Technical Guidance Documents. This includes: measured room-by-room supply and extract rates, system settings, and a commissioning sheet for an independent third-party validator.
This process ensures that your mechanical ventilation heat recovery system meets all Irish Building Control requirements.
03 – Local, Qualified Installer
Eco Vent operates across Leinster — Dublin and surrounding counties — providing surveys, MHRV system installations, and follow-up servicing. We deliver consistent quality and verified performance at every stage.
Our MVHR system Installation and Commissioning Process
Installing and commissioning an MVHR system in Ireland requires careful design, precise installation, and certified validation. At Eco Vent, we manage the entire process — from concept to handover — ensuring full compliance with TGD Part F (2019) and Part L (2022).
- System Design.
We size each heat recovery ventilation unit and duct route according to your specific dwelling layout. Airflows are calculated directly from Irish Building Regulations, linking extract and whole-house ventilation rates to the number of bedrooms (occupancy load) and wet rooms.
Additionally, we consider airtightness targets (ideally below 3 m³/(h·m²) @ 50 Pa), thermal bridging control, and insulation continuity under Part L. As a result, the system will operate efficiently once the home achieves airtightness. - Ductwork and Unit Installation.
Our team installs rigid, properly supported ductwork with minimal bends to reduce resistance, noise, and fan energy use. Furthermore, all joints are airtight-sealed to prevent warm, moist extract air from leaking into roof spaces.
Moreover, we locate the heat recovery ventilation unit for easy servicing and filter access - Airflow Balancing and Testing.
We then carry out calibrated airflow balancing to verify that every room meets its design airflow (in litres per second). Our engineers adjust valves precisely so both supply and extract match the target rates.
In addition, we arrange accredited airtightness pressure testing where required. For full commissioning procedures, templates, and validation details, visit our Commissioning & Airflow Balancing page. - Certification and Handover. Once installation and testing are complete, we prepare full documentation to support Building Control sign-off:
– A ventilation balancing report showing room-by-room airflow (l/s).
– The airtightness test report confirming measured air permeability.
– The MVHR commissioning sheet with specific fan power (SFP) and heat recovery efficiency in line with Part L backstops.
– User guidance on daily operation and filter maintenance, as required under Part F homeowner information standards.
Altogether, this documentation proves that adequate ventilation has been delivered — not just installed — ensuring your system performs exactly as designed.
Regulatory Context (2025 Updates)
Key Ventilation Updates — TGD F 2019 vs Proposed 2025
Ireland’s ventilation rules are governed by Technical Guidance Document F (TGD F). The 2025 draft revision introduces tighter performance, testing, and health standards compared to TGD F 2019.
Main Ventilation-Related Changes
- Airtightness
- Current: Max 7 m³/h/m² @ 50 Pa; MVHR homes recommended ≤3 m³/h/m².
- Proposed: Stricter limit of 5 m³/h/m² and mandatory airtightness verification.
- Commissioning & Validation
- Current: Installer commissions; third-party NSAI validator issues certificate.
- Proposed: Stricter validation per room, enhanced commissioning records, and detailed handover documentation.
- System Design & Installation
- Current: Designed by competent person; follows prescriptive flow rates.
- Proposed: Performance-based verification using EN 14134:2019; higher competency standards for designers/installers.
- Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)
- Current: Focus on moisture and pollutant control.
- Proposed: Links with EPBD Recast, CO₂ monitoring in key spaces, and emphasis on occupant health and outdoor air quality.
- Documentation & Handover
- Proposed 2025 requires a Home User Guide, airflow data per room, and clear operation/maintenance instructions.
- Natural Ventilation
- Proposed: Stronger checks for naturally ventilated dwellings, acknowledging performance gaps and integrating Part O (Overheating) strategies.
- Retrofit & Renovation
- Proposed: Mandatory ventilation impact checklist during renovations and linkage with energy upgrade (A3 BER) requirements.
- Energy Efficiency
- Proposed: Introduction of specific fan power (SFP) benchmarks and alignment with Part L (2025).
Overall Direction
The 2025 TGD F moves:
- From prescriptive to performance-based standards
- From design calculations to measured airflow results
- From energy focus to holistic indoor environmental quality
- From one-off validation to ongoing performance
- From passive to active ventilation for airtight homes
Until the new version is published, TGD F 2019 remains in force for ventilation compliance in Ireland.
References: Irish Statute Book — S.I. No.56/2025; gov.ie consultation; SEAI ventilation guidance.
Costs & Grants
Typical heat recovery ventilation system installations range from €5000–€6,500 (standard single-storey homes) and can exceed €8,000 for complex retrofits (excl. VAT).
Although Eco Vent is not an SEAI-registered contractor, we still design every mechanical ventilation system to fully meet SEAI performance standards. Moreover, we actively support grant applications by providing all required commissioning documentation for third-party validation and retrofit submissions. As a result, homeowners and builders can confidently demonstrate compliance and energy performance during SEAI or Building Control assessments.
Eco Vent Systems Ready for Ireland’s New Ventilation Regulations
We deliver MVHR systems with full design, airflow balancing, and comprehensive commissioning documentation suitable for independent third-party validation and Building Control.
Request a free quotation — we will review your drawings and provide a compliant, fully documented proposal for your new heat recovery ventilation system.
Frequently Asked Questions — MVHR Installation
How long does installation take?
Typically one working week for a standard dwelling when duct routes are prepared.
Is commissioning required
Yes — you need a signed balancing/validation report for Building Control and energy verification. Download the official Part F commissioning sheet (PDF) in our handover pack: https://ecovent.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Part_F_2019_Installation_and_Commissioning_Guide.pdf.pdf
How often should I service the system?
Check the filters regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and replace them at least once a year to maintain optimum airflow and air quality. Schedule a full service every 2–3 years in typical domestic settings.
What Are Common Problems with MVHR and How Can They Be Fixed?
Typical issues often arise from unbalanced airflow, dirty filters, or incomplete commissioning. As a result, systems may become noisy or deliver less ventilation than designed.
To solve these problems, technicians should balance the system professionally, replace filters regularly, and clean the heat exchanger periodically. Moreover, carrying out routine performance testing helps ensure that airflow rates remain accurate and the system continues to meet TGD Part F (2019) and Part L (2022) requirements.
How does MVHR improve indoor air quality and energy efficiency?
MVHR removes stale, humid air, introduces filtered fresh air, and saves energy by recovering heat. It reduces health risks from poor ventilation and supports energy performance
Is third-party validation necessary for domestic MVHR systems?
Yes, third-party validation and certified testing are mandatory for regulatory compliance as required by Building Control 2025
Can an MVHR system help prevent condensation and mould?
By maintaining consistent airflow and precise humidity control, an MVHR system actively prevents condensation and mould. As a result, it helps protect building materials, finishes, and indoor air quality—an essential benefit for modern airtight homes built to TGD Part L (2022) standards.
What maintenance does an MVHR system require?
Essential MVHR system maintenance includes regular filter changes, heat exchanger cleaning, cleaning plenums and air valves, checking the condensation drain, inspection of the ducts, and airflow checks as needed. We strongly recommend annual professional servicing to maintain optimal performance and full regulatory compliance. Regular servicing ensures your ventilation system runs efficiently, extends its lifespan, and keeps it in line with TGD Part F (2019) and NSAI validation requirements (2025).
How Often Should MVHR Filters Be Replaced ?
You should clean or replace MVHR filters every 6–12 months, depending on how often the system runs and the local air quality. Regular maintenance keeps airflow steady and protects indoor air quality throughout the year.
Additionally, vacuuming the filters every three months helps remove surface dust and extend their lifespan. As a result, your mechanical ventilation system continues to operate efficiently and remains compliant with TGD Part F (2019) and NSAI standards (2025).
Why install an MVHR system in my home or business?
MVHR ensures healthy indoor air quality, helps prevent mould and damp, and meets modern energy efficiency standards. It is mandatory for new builds and deep retrofits to comply with Irish Building Control and Part F 2025 ventilation regulations.