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.
Top Marks for Classroom Ventilation: Introducing the Infinity® ClassFlo® CF350 Posted on 21/08/202504/11/2025 by Ella Walker Our latest decentralised heat recovery unit for classrooms, the Infinity® ClassFlo® CF350, has now officially launched – allowing schools nationwide to immediately create healthier, quieter, and more efficient learning spaces. Purpose-built for education settings, this unit combines high-performance engineering with intelligent control to deliver cleaner air, lower energy bills, and quieter learning environments. Whether your school is planning maintenance during the next half- or full-term break, or wants to upgrade as soon as possible, the CF350 is available now and primed to make an instant difference. The benefits of the Infinity® ClassFlo® CF350 From mainstream classrooms to special educational needs (SEN) environments, the CF350 is tailored to meet the complex needs of modern education settings. It meets the latest standards for school ventilation and building performance, including BB101, BB93, Approved Document F, and Approved Document L. So excellent indoor air quality, thermal comfort, and sustainability are all guaranteed. This system provides 100% fresh, filtered air with no recirculation or mixing, helping keep classroom CO₂ levels below the recommended daily average of 1,000 ppm. For pupils, this translates into better concentration, less fatigue, and more productive learning environments. Understanding the full tech specs The CF350 is a high efficiency counterflow heat exchanger available in above ceiling and below ceiling configurations with either left- or right-hand access. Installation is straightforward, with top and bottom access for maintenance and most sensors housed within the unit itself to reduce additional setup costs. Once installed, intelligent controls make operation a breeze. Remote access via Bluetooth or NFC means no specialist tools are required. The unit also integrates with building management systems via Modbus, with BACnet compatibility available on request. Once in place and fully operational, each CF350 unit: Recovers up to 88% of heat, reducing the need for additional heating or cooling Uses up to 52% less classroom energy compared to low-efficiency or hybrid systems Delivers up to 78% greater energy efficiency Offers full heat recovery with consistent temperatures and ventilation, even during winter and summer peaks Meets the 30 dB(A) requirement for SEN sensory spaces, vital for pupils with auditory sensitivities or hearing impairments. Ensures noise stays low via a double-skinned construction with acoustic insulation Supports respiratory health and school attendance with high-efficiency F7 and M5 filters removing pollutants, allergens and fine particles from the air Optimises comfort with four seasonal operating modes, including heat exchange and free cooling The CF350: ready when you are Whether you’re upgrading a single classroom or planning a site-wide rollout, the CF350 can be installed with minimal disruption. If your school also needs ventilation solutions for kitchens, toilets, shower areas or communal spaces, Air Vent Technology has a full range of systems to support your project. Download the Infinity ClassFlo CF350 brochure today and get in touch to discuss your next steps.
HVAC maintenance: why your system needs a regular ‘MOT’ check – and how to do it Posted on 29/04/202504/11/2025 by Ella Walker Do you make this common HVAC maintenance mistake? Most car owners use their vehicles every day. The physical act of getting into their car gives them a constant reminder to ensure it’s well maintained, so each year they book their MOT and do their best to keep it in serviceable condition. But when it comes to HVAC systems, there’s often very little physical interaction with the machinery involved. So even though buildings rely on their HVAC systems every say of the year, it’s easy to forget that regular upkeep and servicing is necessary. It’s time to move HVAC maintenance up your priority list Planning and investing in a regular HVAC maintenance schedule offers four main benefits. It can: Avoid costly downtime, by preventing potential problems from developing rather than simply reacting to them when it’s too late. Maintain high performance levels and consequently guarantee better indoor air quality for longer. Decrease your company’s environmental footprint, by ensuring your system is running as efficiently as possible. This also has the benefit of reducing your overall energy costs. Extend the expected lifespan of your HVAC system and help you to avoid costly replacement programmes. Each year, you should aim to clean the outdoor units, check the electrical connections, and add the correct lubrication to mechanical components. By doing this, you’ll avoid early wear-and-tear, making the equipment last longer and instantly increasing the ROI of your investment. Air Vent Technology’s recommended HVAC maintenance schedule The engineers in Air Vent Technology’s SES department see the same issues arise over and over again. As a bare minimum, we recommend all site managers commit to the following maintenance schedule for their air handling units: Quarterly: Inspect all filters. If they’re heavily soiled, replace them immediately. Half-Yearly: Use a brush to carefully clean the fan impeller. This prevents undue dirt build-up and stops the impeller becoming unbalanced. Inspect the coils to ensure no foreign material has accumulated on the fans. If necessary, use a soft brush to clean the fins with a mild detergent solution. Remember: go gentle. Make sure you don’t damage the fins. If you’re regularly finding debris on the fins, check the filtration system. Clean and lubricate damper cogs, blades, and frames with a PTFE or silicone oil aerosol lubricant. Yearly: Check the security and integrity of all fasteners. Pay particular attention to the impeller fixing on the fan shaft. Inspect the unit’s paint finish. If necessary, repaint with a suitable touch-up paint. Check anti-vibration mountings and flexible connections for signs of perishing or damage. Alternatively, get the experts to help out For a bespoke service plan designed specifically for your air handling units, email our SES department. We’ll be happy to help!
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!
Air Vent Technology: Our 2024 Highlights Posted on 12/12/202404/11/2025 by Ella Walker As we head closer to the end of the year and begin thinking about 2025, we wanted to reflect on the past year here at AVT and everything we have achieved. Operations Firstly, this year saw us invest in 2 very exciting pieces of equipment. We kicked off 2024 with our new production line and lift and, more recently, in October, our new state-of-the-art wrapping machine. The installation of the new wrapping machine has immediately reduced the labour and material costs associated with wrapping and dispatching pallets. Find them here and here. Workplace Spirit Of course, here at AVT, we are all about being a team, and this was highlighted back in September during our employee BBQ and team-building afternoon. Everyone got involved in the games that involved the mind, agility, and communication—something for everyone! Also, we are not forgetting our staff appreciation day, which was complete with cakes! The Team We’ve had many new team members, who you might have spotted on our LinkedIn, including our Special Projects Manager, Guy Miller. If you want to learn more about Guy, you can check out his blog here. Don’t forget if you haven’t already, then follow us on LinkedIn. You’ll see weekly behind-the-scenes content as well as links to our monthly blog posts and case studies as soon as they go live! Thank you for your support this year, and we look forward to all the exciting things 2025 will bring. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
