Common Aftercare Practices for Optimal Ventilation Performance

Common Aftercare Practices for Optimal Ventilation Performance

By Ruth MacEachern

Product Manager

Effective ventilation is essential in order to guarantee high indoor air quality within a dwelling and to prevent the build-up of mould and harmful airborne pathogens. In addition to aggravating allergies and existing respiratory conditions such as asthma, poor indoor air quality has been shown to be a contributing factor to more serious illnesses such as lung cancer, with children particularly at risk. Furthermore, more complex whole-house mechanical ventilation systems represent a significant investment and it will often be several years before this expense is recouped in the form of savings on home heating fuels. With all of this in mind, operators of a ventilation installation, such as a Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) system will want to ensure that their installation is operating as efficiently as possible, thus optimising the benefits both in terms of their health and their finances. In addition, the benefits of an efficient system in terms of its contribution to environmental protection and the reduction of carbon emissions are not to be overlooked.

In this article, we will address a number of common ventilation system aftercare practices that will help ensure that your installation delivers optimal ventilation performance for many years to come, thus improving occupant health while optimising and accelerating the user’s return on investment.

Recommended aftercare practices for MVHR systems

1. Reducing the load on your ventilation installation

One way to ensure that your ventilation system delivers optimal performance for an extended period of time is to do everything you can to ensure that it is not performing at excessive capacity. Occupants can limit the load on a ventilation system by adopting some simple everyday practices, such as keeping a clean home that is as free as possible from dirt and dust, ensuring that extractor fans and trickle vents are installed and deployed in high-humidity areas such as bathrooms and kitchens, and ensuring that the dwelling is well insulated and sealed. Homeowners with pets should take additional care to ensure that hair cannot accumulate in ventilation ducts and vents by increasing the frequency of cleaning.

2. Regular inspection and cleaning of the ventilation system components

Occupants should schedule routine visual inspections to identify signs of wear, corrosion, leaks, or any visible issues that might compromise the performance of the installation. The majority of ventilation system aftercare that needs to be carried out can be performed by the occupants themselves, such as the cleaning and, if necessary, the replacement of filters. Clogged filters can impede airflow and place unnecessary strain on the ventilation system. Filters can be easily removed for cleaning and can be replaced for a small fee.

3. Maintaining condensate drains

Condensate drainage lines should be checked for blockages on a regular basis to prevent water damage or the formation of mould, which can compromise the performance of the ventilation system and severely impair indoor air quality within the dwelling.

4. Inspecting ducting and seals

Air leaks can significantly impair the performance of a whole-house mechanical ventilation system. Ducts should be checked for damage and leaks, paying particular attention to the seals and gaskets at the transitions from one section to the next.

5. Keep an eye out for signs of inefficient ventilation performance

If you notice that the air in the property is stuffy or stale, if excessive condensation can be seen on windows within the home, or if you are experiencing excessive noise from your central ventilation unit, fans, or loose components, these are most likely indicators that there is a problem with your installation.

Finally, know when to engage professional services…

While many issues with mechanical ventilation systems can be managed through routine cleaning or minor repairs by internal maintenance teams, it is crucial for businesses to recognize their limitations. When in-house staff are unable to diagnose or resolve a problem, it is imperative to consult with professional service providers for a comprehensive inspection and necessary repairs. Regular maintenance and cleaning are important, but businesses should also schedule a thorough professional audit of their system every 3-5 years using advanced diagnostic equipment. Experienced technicians can identify and address potential issues before they develop into serious, costly problems.

For businesses experiencing issues with their existing systems or seeking advice on ventilation installations, EnviroVent offers expert guidance. We can connect you with local technicians or arrange a professional survey to assess your needs. Contact us directly through our online contact form or find recommended ventilation specialists across the UK here.