Ventilation monster

Ventilation monster
Originally uploaded by Lenny & Meriel.

The heat recovery ventilation system is a really important part of this functionality of this house. It's a Ubbink system which is supposed to be good - we believe it will be once fitted. However - it has caused many headaches along the way. The level of customer service from Ubbink - although OK at presale stage (they came over to Guernsey to talk to us twice), was pretty bad during design of the system (read almost nonexistant) - and the parts they've supplied are confusing to say the least - and possibly inadequate. Its partly because we're not using the system in the traditional way (if such a thing exists). Integrating it with the buffer zone to make use of the heat collected there has been very interesting to work out.

We're now at the stage when most of the ducting is either fitted or on course to be fitted (awaiting more duct insulation). The problem is the clever stuff around the buffer zone which consists of a pair of thermostatic dampers. AFM (local company fitting it) and ourselves are both trying to work out the best way of making it work to create a controllable, automatic and adaptable system which delivers maximum benefits in terms space heating / cooling. Ubbink have been asked to explain their thoughts and the parts they supplied for the purpose - but first reaction is that the parts simply will not deliver to our requirements.

This must be sorted asap because plasterboarding is waiting for ducting to be finalised.