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Ventilation System Design (MVHR & Balanced Ventilation)

SolutionAir

Ventilation is essential to how modern homes function. As buildings become increasingly airtight, fresh air can no longer be left to chance. Without a dedicated ventilation strategy, homes are more likely to suffer from moisture build-up, poor air quality, and inconsistent comfort.

Solutionair designs whole-home ventilation systems that are fully integrated into the building. Using Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) and other balanced ventilation solutions, we continuously supply fresh, filtered air while removing stale, moisture-laden air. These systems are engineered to operate quietly, efficiently, and in harmony with the home’s overall design.

Details
Scope of use
  • New builds and major renovations
    • Airtight or energy-efficient homes
    • Architecturally designed residences
    • Homes experiencing condensation, moisture, or air quality concerns
Why it matters

Poorly planned ventilation is one of the leading causes of condensation, mould, and unhealthy indoor environments. Relying on open windows is unreliable, uncomfortable, and energy-inefficient—particularly in colder months or high-humidity conditions.

A professionally designed balanced ventilation system protects both occupants and the building itself. By addressing ventilation early in the design process, homes achieve cleaner air, better thermal performance, and consistent comfort throughout the year.

How it works
  • Ventilation strategy is developed based on the building layout, usage of rooms, occupancy, climate, and to meet NZ building code.
  • Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery systems are designed to extract stale air from wet areas while supplying fresh air to living spaces and bedrooms.
  • Heat exchangers recover warmth from outgoing air and transfer it to incoming air, reducing energy loss.
  • Duct layouts, plant locations, and air distribution are coordinated to integrate cleanly within the architectural design. 
For specifiers

Scope of design

  • Whole-home balanced ventilation system design
  • Supply and extract air distribution planning
  • Integration with heating and cooling systems

System considerations

  • Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery units selected based on airflow, pressure, and efficiency requirements
  • Heat recovery efficiencies typically in the range of 80–90%
  • Filtration strategies to manage outdoor pollutants, pollen, and fine dust
  • Summer bypass and control strategies where appropriate

Design and coordination value

  • Neutral pressure ventilation to protect building fabric
  • Early integration into ceiling zones, service cavities, and plant spaces
  • Reduced risk of condensation and hidden moisture issues
  • Clear basis for coordination across architectural, services, and construction documentation

Typical outputs

  • Ventilation system layouts and air distribution strategy
  • Unit performance criteria and airflow requirements
    Inputs suitable for coordinated design and installation

Cost calculations and lead time estimations

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About the
Seller

Solutionair is a New Zealand-based leader in residential ventilation, heating, and cooling, helping homes perform at their best. We work closely with homeowners, architects, designers, and builders to create integrated HVAC solutions that deliver healthy air, consistent comfort, and long-term efficiency.

Modern homes are airtight, which improves energy efficiency—but it also makes air quality, moisture control, and thermal comfort critical from day one.

Our approach is design-led and evidence-based. Using thermal modelling and system planning, we tailor solutions to each home’s layout, orientation, construction, and lifestyle, ensuring ventilation, heating, and cooling work together as a seamless system.

Ventilation is at the core of what we do. Our Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems continuously deliver fresh, filtered air while removing moisture and stale air. In winter the MVHR recovers heat from the outgoing air and in summer it takes advantage of cool indoor air to maintain comfort without wasting energy. Properly integrated, these systems improve indoor air quality, protect the building, and reduce reliance on mechanical heating and cooling.

From early planning to installation and commissioning, Solutionair provides guidance, technical clarity, and support to ensure every system performs as intended. The result? Homes that are healthier, more comfortable, and better to live in—every day of the year.

Verified ArchiPro Member6 years · Since 2020