Choosing MVHR for Luxury New Builds in Godalming

Energy-Efficient Living Meets Modern Comfort in Surrey’s Property Hotspot

Godalming is fast becoming a preferred location for high-end new builds and self-build projects in Surrey. With excellent commuter links, countryside charm, and a reputation for quality homes, developers and homeowners in Godalming are setting high standards when it comes to design, energy use, and indoor comfort.

But with better insulation, airtight construction, and energy-conscious designs now standard, the question of how to ventilate these homes is more important than ever. Poor airflow in energy-efficient buildings leads to trapped moisture, stale air, and overheating. That’s why Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) has become the go-to solution for luxury new builds in the area.

This blog explains why MVHR is essential in modern homes in Godalming, how it supports current building regulations, and what homeowners and developers should expect during the installation process.

Why High-Spec Homes in Godalming Need MVHR

As regulations around energy efficiency tighten, new homes are being built to be virtually airtight. Walls are thicker, glazing is triple-layered, and construction quality is high. While this is excellent for energy retention, it drastically reduces natural ventilation.

Without proper airflow:

• Moisture from cooking, showering, and even breathing becomes trapped
• Condensation starts forming on windows and walls
• Mould growth appears in corners or behind furniture
• Air quality worsens, affecting health and comfort

Traditional extractor fans or trickle vents don’t offer the consistency or air quality required in these sealed environments. MVHR provides a complete solution—delivering fresh air throughout the home while recovering up to 90% of the heat from outgoing air.

How MVHR Works

An MVHR system uses two ducted airflows:

1. Extract: Stale air is drawn from wet rooms like bathrooms, kitchens, and utilities
2. Supply: Fresh filtered air is delivered into living rooms and bedrooms

Before the stale air is expelled, it passes through a heat exchanger, which warms the incoming fresh air—maintaining comfortable temperatures while saving energy.

Features that matter in Godalming’s new builds:

• Silent operation
• Summer bypass to reduce overheating
• High-grade filters for clean indoor air
• Integration with smart home systems
• Discreet ceiling or wall grilles

Case Study: MVHR Installation in a New Five-Bedroom Property in Godalming

ClimateWorks recently completed an MVHR installation in a detached family home near Holloway Hill. The developer had designed the home with solar PV, underfloor heating, and airtight construction, but needed a ventilation strategy that supported both Part F and Part L of the building regulations.

Challenges:

• Zoned heating system required coordinated airflow
• Home office spaces needed additional ventilation for daytime occupancy
• Tight ceiling voids due to architectural detailing

Our approach:

• Selected a high-capacity MVHR unit suitable for large dwellings
• Used semi-rigid ducting for fast, airtight installation
• Fitted additional air terminals in office and study areas
• Integrated summer bypass and humidity sensors for adaptive control
• Delivered full commissioning and homeowner handover pack

The result: constant fresh air, lower energy demand, and no visible grilles interrupting the interior design.

What Developers in Godalming Should Know

Installing MVHR is no longer a niche request—it’s becoming standard in high-end homes across Godalming, Farncombe, and Milford. For developers and architects, MVHR:

• Helps meet SAP targets and improve EPC ratings
• Supports compliance with Approved Documents F and L
• Reduces the risk of client complaints about condensation or stale air
• Adds value to marketing brochures and sales conversations

ClimateWorks supports developers from design stage through to final commissioning, ensuring MVHR is integrated smoothly into the build process.

Current UK Building Regulations and MVHR

Approved Document F – Ventilation

• MVHR is considered “System 4: Continuous mechanical supply and extract with heat recovery”
• Must be designed, installed, and commissioned by a competent installer
• Airflow rates and balancing are mandatory for compliance

Approved Document L – Conservation of Fuel and Power

• MVHR contributes to a building’s overall energy performance
• Fan power and heat exchanger efficiency must be within specified limits
• MVHR systems must be tested, with performance documented

Overheating Considerations (Document O)

• MVHR systems with summer bypass help reduce the risk of overheating
• Particularly important for south-facing and highly glazed new builds

Installation Process for New Builds in Godalming

At ClimateWorks, we handle the full MVHR process—from system selection to post-installation support.

Our process includes:

1. Design coordination with architects and M&E consultants
2. Duct layout planning using construction drawings
3. First-fix installation during early construction phase
4. Second-fix connection and unit setup
5. Full commissioning and sign-off with Part F certification
6. Homeowner training and support on system usage

All installations are carried out by our REFCOM-registered engineers and meet current industry best practices.

Common Concerns About MVHR—Answered

Some developers or homeowners may have doubts about MVHR systems:

• Noise: High-spec MVHR units are virtually silent with correct duct sizing
• Maintenance: Only basic filter changes are required every 6-12 months
• Cost: Upfront investment is offset by long-term energy savings
• Space: Units can be installed in lofts, utility rooms, or service cupboards

At ClimateWorks, we address all of these concerns in our early-stage design consultations, ensuring confidence and clarity from the outset.

Bullet Point Summary – Why MVHR Is the Right Choice for Godalming’s New Homes

• Provides continuous fresh air without open windows
• Recovers up to 90% of heat that would otherwise be lost
• Improves indoor air quality and reduces allergens
• Complies with UK ventilation and energy regulations
• Prevents condensation, damp, and mould
• Discreet design options for modern interiors
• Supports smart home integration
• Helps developers meet SAP, EPC, and Part F targets
• Ideal for high-value homes in Godalming’s competitive property market

Book a Design Consultation with ClimateWorks

Whether you’re building your own home or managing a residential development in Godalming, ClimateWorks provides MVHR solutions that match your aesthetic, energy, and comfort goals.

👉 Get a bespoke design and quote today:
https://www.climateworks.co.uk

References

[1] GOV.UK. (2021). Approved Document F – Ventilation. Retrieved from https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/ventilation-approved-document-f
[2] GOV.UK. (2022). Approved Document L – Conservation of Fuel and Power. Retrieved from https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/conservation-of-fuel-and-power-approved-document-l
[3] CIBSE Guide B – Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration
[4] Energy Saving Trust. (2023). Mechanical Ventilation and Heat Recovery (MVHR). Retrieved from https://energysavingtrust.org.uk

Author Bio

Dr. Julian Carter is a highly experienced thermal systems expert with over 15 years in the field, holding a PhD in thermal systems. His career spans academic research, consulting, and teaching, focusing on air conditioning and refrigeration systems. Dr. Carter bridges the gap between theoretical advancements and practical applications, providing expert insights to organisations like ClimateWorks, where his guidance informs decision-making and industry best practices. Notably, he has worked on international projects with organisations such as Daikin Industries, the International Institute of Refrigeration (IIR), and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Currently a lecturer at Edinburgh University, Dr. Carter combines his expertise with a passion for educating the next generation of engineers and advancing climate control technologies.

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