MVHR Filter Change in Ireland — Every 12–18 Months, €30–€60, and How to Do It
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MVHR filter change: every 12–18 months, €30–€60 for a pair of filters. DIY, 30 minutes. Most MVHR warranties require it.
MVHR filter change: every 12–18 months, €30–€60 for a pair of filters. DIY, 30 minutes. Most MVHR warranties require it. Two filters: extract (kitchen, bathroom, toilet) and intake (outside air). Replace both at the same time. If the filters are dirty, the MVHR runs less efficiently. The heat exchanger works harder, electricity use goes up, and the air quality drops. Check the filters every 6 months in year 1 to see how they age. Most Irish MVHR filters (Brink, Zehnder, Vent-Axia) cost €30–€60 per pair. The unit has a filter change indicator (a pressure gauge or a timer); follow the manufacturer's instructions. The full service (every 3–5 years) is more involved: clean the heat exchanger, check the fans, check the ductwork.
TL;DR
MVHR filter change: every 12–18 months, €30–€60 for a pair of filters. DIY, 30 minutes. Most MVHR warranties require it.
Two filters: extract (kitchen, bathroom, toilet) and intake (outside air). Replace both at the same time.
If the filters are dirty, the MVHR runs less efficiently. The heat exchanger works harder, electricity use goes up, and the air quality drops.
When this matters most
You've just taken handover and want to plan the MVHR maintenance.
When this doesn't apply
You've just changed the filters.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I change MVHR filters?
Every 12–18 months. €30–€60 per pair. DIY, 30 minutes. Most MVHR warranties require it. Two filters: extract and intake. Replace both at the same time.
Can I change MVHR filters myself?
Yes. Most MVHR units have a simple slide-out filter. No tools needed. The filters are clearly marked (extract and intake). Buy from the manufacturer or a builder's merchant.
How much does an MVHR service cost?
Full service (every 3–5 years): €250–€400. Clean the heat exchanger, check the fans, check the ductwork. Most installers offer an annual service contract.
Sources
Building Regulations 2023, TGD-F (Ventilation). https://www.gov.ie/
Frequently asked questions
How often should I change MVHR filters?
Every 12–18 months. €30–€60 per pair. DIY, 30 minutes. Most MVHR warranties require it. Two filters: extract and intake. Replace both at the same time.
Can I change MVHR filters myself?
Yes. Most MVHR units have a simple slide-out filter. No tools needed. The filters are clearly marked (extract and intake). Buy from the manufacturer or a builder's merchant.
How much does an MVHR service cost?
Full service (every 3–5 years): €250–€400. Clean the heat exchanger, check the fans, check the ductwork. Most installers offer an annual service contract.
When this matters most
You've just taken handover and want to plan the MVHR maintenance.
When this doesn't apply
You've just changed the filters.
Where to go next
Next decision
The next step in your build sequence.