Solving complex ventilation challenges with bespoke AHUs Posted on 29/09/202629/09/2026 by avt_admin No two ventilation projects are exactly the same. Buildings vary in size, layout, and purpose. Available plant space differs dramatically. And there is huge variability in access restrictions, performance requirements, and client specifications. Despite this, standard air handling units (AHU) designed around predetermined dimensions and configurations can still often provide everything required. But when a building presents a particularly unusual challenge, or clients have especially specific performance needs, bespoke AHUs might be the only feasible solution. Challenges that influence AHU design Several considerations have to be balanced for every successful AHU installation. Bespoke AHUs are normally a response to a small number of consistent challenges, including: Restricted space. A refurbishment project, for example, may have very little available plant space. Existing walls, ductwork, and other building services can limit the dimensions of a new AHU. Access limitations. If access routes are narrow, standard AHUs may be unable to be either delivered, positioned, or installed correctly. Performance requirements. Airflow, heating, filtration, and extract requirements can all be specific to the building, with some environments demanding higher performance than standard AHUs deliver. Air Vent Technology has a long history of designing and manufacturing bespoke AHU units that meet the performance, space, installation, and operational demands of clients across the UK. It’s from these decades of experience that we know bespoke design gives engineers greater freedom to balance any competing requirements. Making an AHU fit a confined space A previous AVT project demonstrates just how important this flexibility can be. Our customer needed a supply AHU small enough to travel through the building, be installed inside an existing enclosed cupboard, and meet specified airflow, filtration, and heating requirements. The cupboard couldn’t be rebuilt or dismantled, creating strict limits on the dimensions of the unit. Over a three-month period, we worked with the customer to refine the design. The eventual solution used a U-shaped airflow arrangement, with air travelling down through the unit and back up. This allowed the AHU to fit the available space while delivering the required 400l/s airflow and a 20°C temperature rise. Planning extended beyond the AHU itself. Doors, corridors, and other potential obstacles were measured to confirm that the completed unit could reach its final position. The result was a bespoke AHU that met the required performance specification within a highly restrictive space. When the specification goes beyond performance For another bespoke project, we supplied a colour-matched externally mounted AHU for a new biomethane production plant. The unit needed to provide tempered air, with a high-level extract fan supporting crossflow ventilation. Its position on an elevated external platform meant custom sizing was required. The customer also wanted the equipment to maintain visual consistency with the rest of the plant. Our expertise ensured the unit was manufactured in the exact RAL colour requested, using powder-coating capabilities to achieve the required finish. From the initial site visit to delivery of the finished unit, the entire process took just two weeks. The completed AHU met its performance targets, fitted the designated space, and matched the customer’s required colour. Bespoke AHUs: start the conversation early Both projects highlight the value of involving an AHU manufacturer as soon as possible when unusual requirements are identified. Early discussions allow engineers to understand the complete picture and consider requirements together rather than individually. Potential problems can also be identified and resolved before any equipment reaches site. As bespoke AHUs continue to play an important role across refurbishment, retrofit, and new-build projects, the starting point is always the same: understanding what the project needs and designing the AHU accordingly. If you’re working on a project where space, access, or unusual performance requirements are making AHU selection difficult, speak to our team about a bespoke solution. We’re always ready to help.
Is your building ready for the next heatwave? Posted on 27/07/202627/07/2026 by avt_admin There’s no doubt about it: British summers are getting hotter. And when temperatures rise, ventilation systems are put to the ultimate test. Reliable air movement and temperature control become the central focus for facilities teams working to ensure healthy, productive indoor environments. But in any UK heatwave, ventilation systems operate markedly differently to the rest of the year. Components that have seen little use during cooler months may suddenly be required to operate continuously, exposing issues that have previously gone unnoticed. For facilities and building managers, this makes summer an ideal time to review system performance and ensure everything is operating as intended. The cost of waiting for something to go wrong Many ventilation issues develop gradually. A blocked coil, worn component, or poorly calibrated control system might not create noticeable problems during milder weather. However, once temperatures rise and demand peaks, small faults can soon affect system performance. Buildings with high occupancy or large glazed areas can feel the effects particularly quickly. But by then, urgent repairs, increased costs and operational disruption can be inevitable. Preventative maintenance, which includes checks and tests before these issues occur, is almost always more cost-effective than responding after a breakdown. The importance of regular servicing and inspections Routine servicing gives facilities managers a clearer picture of how their ventilation systems are performing before seasonal demand increases. By regularly working to check controls, identify worn components, and ensure cooling functions are performing efficiently, any developing issues can be spotted and resolved before they turn into larger problems. This proactive approach helps to extend equipment life, improve energy efficiency, increase system longevity, and maintain occupant comfort throughout the warmer months. For buildings and facilities managers, one result above all is invaluable: ongoing confidence that your ventilation system is ready when it’s needed most. The flexibility of bespoke STP and STR air handling units If you’re looking to make significant upgrades in your ability to keep cool this summer, our flexible and custom-built STP and STR air handling units could be the key to your building’s ongoing comfort. Every site presents different challenges, so our units are designed around individual project requirements rather than fixed, standard specifications. Plantroom or rooftop versions are available, each with the ability to incorporate cooling coils and additional components where necessary, and they can be used both for new installations or refurbishment projects. This enhanced flexibility – much greater than standard off-the-shelf options – allows facilities managers to invest in solutions tailored to their building today, while retaining the ability to accommodate future operational changes. Talk to Air Vent Technology Whether you need planned maintenance support, advice on system upgrades or a bespoke STP or STR air handling unit designed around your building’s requirements, our team is ready to help. Get in touch to discuss your project and ensure your ventilation system is ready for whatever the summer brings.
Why Schools Are Investing in Better Classroom Ventilation Posted on 26/05/202626/05/2026 by avt_admin Good classroom ventilation is now a key priority for schools and education providers across the UK. A growing body of research shows a well-ventilated environment leads to improved concentration levels, better health and wellbeing, and reduced energy costs. But it isn’t always simple to achieve. While many school buildings are showing signs of their age, funding pressures continue to be felt across the education sector. The result? Education providers are looking for practical, long-term solutions that improve indoor air quality without disruption or a spike in running costs. Why ventilation matters in classrooms Poor classroom ventilation can lead to a build-up of carbon dioxide (CO₂), stale air, humidity, and airborne pollutants. All of these can affect pupils’ ability to concentrate, stay engaged, and learn. Each day with poor education ventilation is a missed opportunity for youngsters trying to reach their full potential. Research from the University of Leeds has confirmed the benefits of improving classroom air quality, particularly in spaces where windows are not always practical due to weather, security, or external noise concerns. Those benefits are profound. With simple installations of heat recovery units like ClassFlo, they include: Supporting attendance, wellbeing, and concentration. Schools are increasingly aware of the link between indoor air quality and attendance. If pupils feel discomfort, fatigue, or headaches when they’re in class, they become significantly less likely to maintain good attendance levels. Meeting BB101 and BB93 requirements. Ventilation systems in education settings must meet specific performance standards. That’s why our systems meet complete room air change meeting BB101 requirements, with no recirculation of air and effective CO₂ management, as well as BB93 noise requirements that promote effective teaching and learning. Lower bills through effective heat recovery. As energy costs continue to trend upwards, heat recovery ventilation systems are highly valued in education settings. By capturing heat from outgoing air and using it to warm incoming fresh air, they maintain comfortable indoor temperatures without increasing bills. Retrofitting ventilation into older schools Education ventilation isn’t just about the classroom. Communal areas, sports facilities, kitchens, toilets, and shower areas all need fresh airflow supply. Many school buildings, however, were not originally designed to meet modern ventilation expectations. And that can lead to challenges around access and available space when it comes to retrofitting new solutions. Our Site Engineering Services (SES) team supports schools and contractors with installation, refurbishment, and replacement projects across a wide range of education settings. Our flexibility and experience mean we can supply and install ClassFlo systems with minimal disruption, including scheduling your fitting for school holiday periods. Introducing ClassFlo classroom ventilation ClassFlo is Air Vent Technology’s dedicated classroom ventilation solution, designed specifically for education environments. With a double-skinned case construction, the whole unit with its high efficiency counterflow heat exchanger helps to manage classroom CO2 levels while using up to 52% less energy than other alternatives. Its low noise levels and intelligent controls also mean teaching conditions are never disrupted. ClassFlo systems are designed to help schools meet modern ventilation standards while providing a practical solution for both new-build and retrofit projects. Looking to improve your classroom ventilation? If you’re looking to make the kind of investment in your education facilities that promotes wellbeing, concentration, and effective learning, contact our friendly team today. We’ll help you quickly find the right ventilation solution for your school or education facility. Get in touch today to find out how more about how our ClassFlo system can be tailored to your building and ventilation requirements.
5 signs your ventilation systems needs refurbishment or repair Posted on 24/03/202624/03/2026 by Ella Walker Across the UK, rising energy costs rise are putting businesses under even greater financial strain. But it isn’t just global events that are impacting bills. Poorly maintained or inefficient HVAC systems can also lead to wasted cash. Ventilation systems that are working harder, but delivering less, are common in factories, warehouses, and other commercial settings. Unfortunately, HVAC maintenance is often overlooked… until something goes wrong. But by the time a system fails, you’ve usually already been paying the price in higher bills, poor performance, lower air quality, and increased noise. Here are five clear signs your ventilation system may need refurbishment or repair, and why acting early matters more than ever. 1. Rising energy bills If your energy costs are rising faster than your energy unit rates, your ventilation system could be a major contributor. Over time, key components such as fans, motors, and control systems lose efficiency. As performance drops, systems have to work harder to deliver the same level of airflow. That increased workload directly translates into higher energy consumption and, in turn, that means higher operational costs. But a good refurbishment can use upgraded components to restore some of that lost efficiency, helping bring those costs back under control. 2. Increased noise or vibration A well-functioning ventilation system should operate smoothly and relatively quietly. If things are starting to rattle or shake, it’s often a sign that something isn’t right. An experienced refurbishment engineer will take time to check for worn bearings, loose components, ageing fan motors, and imbalanced fans. If any of these faults are left unchecked, they can lead to more serious mechanical failures – and potentially costly downtime. Getting an expert in early can resolve small issues before they become something much more challenging. 3. Poor or inconsistent airflow Inconsistent airflow is one of the most noticeable and disruptive signs of a struggling system. If you’re experiencing hot or cold spots across your facility, areas with poor ventilation, or even just a general decline in indoor air quality, it could be time to get your system checked. A thorough repair or refurbishment can restore balanced airflow and improve overall system performance, without the cost of a full replacement. 4. Frequent breakdowns or rising maintenance costs If your maintenance team is being called out more often, or repair costs are steadily increasing, it’s a clear warning sign that a full refurbishment might be the most cost-effective way forward (sometimes cutting costs by up to 50%). As ventilation systems age, components fail more frequently, repairs become more regular, and maintenance costs begin to stack up. But at a certain point, investing in refurbishment is simply cheaper than continuing to patch up an ageing system. Taking a proactive approach, and making that decision early, can reduce unplanned downtime and bring long-term savings. 5. Your system is 10–15+ years old Many commercial ventilation systems are built to last, but that doesn’t mean they stay efficient forever. Even if the structure of the system is still sound, internal components can become outdated and inefficient. Refurbishment offers a smarter alternative to full replacement, allowing you to upgrade key elements like fans, control systems, and filtration. It also provides an opportunity to install the most energy-efficient components. This approach modernises performance without the cost and disruption of installing a completely new system. The benefits of refurbishment Refurbishing or repairing your ventilation system helps to improve performance in a range of areas. From lower energy consumption and reduced running costs through to improved indoor air quality and extended system lifespans, repairs and refurbishment have been proven to deliver the best balance between cost and performance. They also offer far less disruption than a full HVAC system replacement. The key is to act before problems escalate. Ventilation issues rarely fix themselves, and waiting too long can turn a manageable upgrade into a costly emergency. If you’ve noticed any of these five signs, now is the time to act. Contact our servicing specialists to start future-proofing your system and put your business in the best possible position.
Acoustic Cabinet Fans: Why Now Is The Right Time to Invest Posted on 23/01/202523/01/2025 by Ella Walker Getting the best ventilation is always a priority for facilities managers and site owners, regardless of whether you oversee a commercial, hospitality, or retail setting. That’s why for more than two decades we’ve offered an extensive range of air handling units, each with their unique advantages and use’s. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the benefits of single acoustic cabin fans – and how their performance, efficiency, and reliability can help to create a better environment for your employees and visitors. The benefits of single acoustic cabinet fans Single acoustic cabinet fans are an excellent choice for many environments, combining flexibility with functionality. Here are seven reasons to choose our units: Indoors and outdoors fitting. Internal and external versions make installation possible in a wide range of settings and applications. Strong energy efficiency. Built with low energy EC fans, each of our units has a low specific fan power (SFP) to help ensure compliance with L2 regulations. Reduced noise breakout. A 20mm Barafoam ‘O’ class liner is fitted in every single acoustic cabinet fan. The liner includes a 6mm barrier mat layer. The result? Quieter operations and a more pleasant environment, especially in places where peace and concentration are necessary. Pre-wired controls. All our units have controls already wired in, simplifying the entire installation process and enabling functionality with BMS systems across Fault Out, VFC Enable, VFC Boost, and Remote Speed Control settings. Flexible designs. Whatever your application, we’ve got you covered. Our units are constructed with galvanised steel (0.9mm-1.2mm) and external models come with a removable discharge cowl. Versatile installation locations. Our units can be mounted vertically or horizontally, with top or bottom access options available. So, whether you want the fan mounted in a plant room, roof space, or externally, these units have the adaptability you need. Powder coated for durability. A powder-coated finish ensures long-lasting protection and performance against environmental factors. The advantages of twin acoustic cabinet fans Twin acoustic cabinet fans are more suited to specific use cases, such as bathrooms and toilets. Their design ensures high performance and reliability in spaces where both those attributes are needed most. Just like with our single acoustic cabinet fans, we offer both top and bottom access options while a 20mm Barafoam ‘O’ class liner, including a 6mm barrier mat layer, helps to significantly reduce noise breakout. All our twin acoustic cabinet fan units are fitted with a pre-wired ACOP, which saves both time and money on site. Secure your acoustic cabinet fan today Ready to get started? First, check out the full specs on our single acoustic cabinet fans and twin acoustic cabinet fans. Then simply fill in the contact form and we’ll be in touch before you know it. If you’ve any questions, feel free to email or call (01264 356415) our friendly customer service representatives. You can even meet the team before you call. We can’t wait to hear from you!
