Why AC and MVHR Installation Quality Matters More Than Brand or Spec

Many contractors and architects choose air conditioning and MVHR systems based on brand or headline specification. But real-world performance depends more on installation quality than on the name on the unit.

Across Hampshire, Berkshire and Surrey, poorly installed systems underperform, regardless of how good the brochure looks. This blog explains why installation matters most and how you can ensure it is done right.

Common problems caused by poor installation

Even the best equipment fails to deliver when installation is rushed or inaccurate. Frequent issues include:

• Grilles mounted too close to ceilings or partitions
• Ductwork crushed or kinked in tight voids
• Condensate pipes installed without fall
• Incorrect system balancing causing noise or poor airflow
• Controls not matched to occupancy or layout

In Bracknell and Alton, projects using premium brands failed air quality testing because systems were never commissioned correctly.

Why brand alone is not enough

Well-known suppliers focus on product development, but not all projects receive support at installation level. Problems arise when:

• Inexperienced subcontractors interpret the design incorrectly
• Duct routes are adjusted on site without checking impact
• SAP and SBEM inputs do not match real system performance
• F-Gas compliance is overlooked during commissioning

On a site in Newbury during Autumn 2023, a high-efficiency system failed to meet DER targets. The system had been selected carefully, but was installed by an unqualified subcontractor.

Case studies

Reading office building (Completed February 2024)

A contractor chose a respected brand but installed without manufacturer support. ClimateWorks was called in after handover due to tenant complaints. We rebalanced and recommissioned the entire system, bringing airflow into spec.

Farnham residential block (Q4 2023)

ClimateWorks was involved from tender stage. Every unit was tested and commissioned by our in-house team. The developer received a full system log for handover, and EPC results exceeded targets.

Guildford co-working space (Spring 2024)

We installed MVHR systems in line with architectural detailing and acoustic criteria. Ducts were sealed, tested and photographed before ceiling close. No noise complaints or post-completion issues were reported.

Client endorsements

“We learned the hard way. Installation makes or breaks the system. ClimateWorks proved that.”
Developer, Reading (2024)

“They handled the install and the handover. Nothing was missed. Zero complaints.”
Main Contractor, Farnham (2023)

Installation quality indicators to look for

When reviewing proposals, ask about:

• Installer qualifications and F-Gas certification
• In-house commissioning or third-party subcontracts
• Duct sealing and pressure testing procedures
• Grille placement guidelines relative to layout
• Support for handover documentation and O&M manuals

On a site in Winchester in March 2024, our team produced photo logs and commissioning sheets for every apartment. Building control accepted these as part of the compliance pack.

Why developers and contractors are changing their approach

Forward-thinking teams in Petersfield, Wokingham and Oxford are:

• Choosing suppliers based on track record, not just brand
• Requesting early coordination meetings with install teams
• Reviewing install quality during first fix
• Linking performance guarantees to install standards
• Including commissioning as a line item in the tender package

This approach leads to smoother handovers, fewer complaints and stronger regulatory compliance.

External guidance and best practices

To ensure quality outcomes, use:

• Building Regulations Part F for airflow and balancing targets
• CIBSE Commissioning Code A for air systems
• F-Gas certification scheme for legal compliance

These references support the legal and performance expectations of any AC or MVHR system.

Why ClimateWorks delivers installation quality

We support every install across Hampshire, Berkshire and Surrey by:

• Using fully certified in-house engineers
• Providing layout reviews before works start
• Following documented install and test processes
• Offering full commissioning, F-Gas logs and performance summaries
• Supporting your site team through to practical completion

Our systems work not because of the label, but because of the way we install them.

About the author

Dr. Julian Carter
Thermal Systems Expert and Technical Advisor at ClimateWorks

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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