MVHR and Allergy Relief: How Filtered Fresh Air Reduces Triggers at Home

Allergies are affecting more UK households than ever. According to Allergy UK, around one in four people in the UK suffer from some form of allergy[1]. For families with children, the number is even higher. Whether it’s hay fever, pet dander, dust mites or mould spores, allergy triggers are everywhere—and a large number of them originate inside the home.

Airtight buildings are excellent at keeping heat in, but they also trap allergens and pollutants. Opening windows helps, but it’s inconsistent and not always practical—especially during cold months or in areas with high levels of outdoor pollution.

That’s why more allergy sufferers are turning to Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR). These systems offer a continuous supply of filtered air, actively removing triggers before they reach your lungs. This blog explores how MVHR works, why it's ideal for allergy relief, and how it compares to other home ventilation methods.

The Allergy Problem Inside UK Homes

Everyday household activities release airborne particles and allergens:

• Dust mites thrive in bedrooms and soft furnishings
• Pollen enters through open doors and windows
• Pet dander clings to surfaces and floats in the air
• Mould spores form in humid bathrooms and kitchens
• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) come from sprays, paint and synthetic furniture
• Smoke and pollutants can enter from nearby roads or fireplaces

These airborne substances circulate in closed environments—especially in newer homes built to higher insulation standards. Without adequate ventilation, they settle, build up, and contribute to respiratory problems, skin irritation, and sinus flare-ups.

For allergy-prone individuals, the impact is often year-round.

How MVHR Helps Reduce Allergens

An MVHR system works by constantly removing stale, contaminated air and replacing it with filtered, outdoor air. Unlike extract-only systems, MVHR also introduces clean air into bedrooms and living areas—ensuring better circulation and air quality throughout the property.

Key features that help allergy sufferers include:

• Built-in air filters remove pollen, dust, pet dander, and airborne particles
• Continuous airflow prevents allergen build-up and stale air pockets
• Balanced ventilation reduces pressure differences that draw pollutants in
• No need for open windows, so pollen and traffic fumes are kept out
• Heat recovery keeps your home warm without compromising on air quality

The result is a consistent flow of fresh, filtered air—with far fewer irritants.

Case Study: Allergy Management in a Family Home in Surrey

In 2022, a family from Guildford contacted ClimateWorks about installing MVHR. Their daughter had severe dust mite and pollen allergies, and they were already using hypoallergenic bedding, frequent vacuuming, and air purifiers—but with little improvement.

Their semi-detached home had recently been renovated and sealed with high-grade insulation and double glazing. Indoor humidity was also causing black mould behind wardrobes.

ClimateWorks designed a central MVHR system with high-grade filters (F7 class), ducted into bedrooms, kitchen and living areas.

Post-installation results:

• Dust levels reduced significantly (measured with particle counters)
• Mould stopped forming on cold surfaces
• The child’s symptoms improved—less congestion and more restful sleep
• Windows no longer needed to be opened at night, improving security and comfort

Benefits of MVHR for Allergy Sufferers

Removes Outdoor Allergens

With filters capable of trapping pollen and fine particles, MVHR reduces the amount of outdoor allergens that typically enter through windows, vents, and doors.

Controls Indoor Humidity

Allergens like dust mites and mould thrive in humid environments. MVHR removes excess moisture, helping maintain optimal indoor humidity (40–60%), where these organisms are less likely to flourish.

Reduces Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

MVHR also expels harmful gases from furniture, carpets, and household sprays. This is crucial for families affected by chemical sensitivities or multiple allergens.

Better Sleep for Allergy-Prone Individuals

With constant airflow and CO₂ control, MVHR ensures a supply of oxygen-rich air at night. This supports deeper, uninterrupted sleep—particularly important for children with asthma or rhinitis.

MVHR vs Other Ventilation Options for Allergies

Many allergy sufferers rely on air purifiers or dehumidifiers. While helpful, these only address part of the problem and usually work in a single room.

Key MVHR Advantages:

• Whole-home coverage with central filtration
• Continuous operation, not just reactive control
• Silent, energy-saving operation
• No need to compromise comfort or security by opening windows

Unlike extractor fans, which only remove air from bathrooms or kitchens, MVHR introduces filtered fresh air to every part of the home.

‍