An MVHR system in a UK home costs £3,500–£9,000 fitted depending on house size, whether it's a new build or retrofit, and the unit's heat-recovery efficiency. Running costs are tiny; typically £60–£120 per year in electricity.
MVHR cost by property size
1–2 bed flat: £3,500–£4,500. 3-bed semi: £5,000–£6,500. 4-bed detached: £6,500–£9,000. Larger or more complex layouts push higher because of duct runs and acoustic attenuators.
New build vs retrofit
New build is 30–40% cheaper because ducts are run in stud walls and floor zones during construction. Retrofit means dropped ceilings or boxed-in ducts and often a roof-mounted unit; both add labour days.
Best-performing units
Vent-Axia Sentinel Kinetic Plus, Zehnder ComfoAir Q and Brink Renovent Sky all hit 90%+ heat recovery efficiency with under 0.3 W/(l/s) specific fan power; the sweet spot for low running cost.
Annual running cost
An efficient MVHR draws 30–80W continuously, costing £60–£120 a year. It usually saves more than that in retained heat versus trickle vents and open windows.
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Get matched quotesFrequently asked questions
Does MVHR replace heating?+
No; it recovers heat from outgoing stale air and warms incoming fresh air, reducing heating demand by 15–25% in a well-sealed home, but doesn't replace your heat source.
How long does MVHR installation take?+
Retrofit: 5–10 working days. New build: rough-in in 2 days during first fix, commissioning in 1 day at second fix.
Does MVHR need servicing?+
Yes; filter changes every 6–12 months (£20–£60 in filters) and a duct inspection every 5 years.