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.
The Sustainability Benefits of Refurbishing Existing Ventilation Equipment Posted on 28/08/202628/08/2026 by avt_admin As your ventilation system reaches the later stages of its working life, replacement can seem like the obvious choice. Improved efficiency, modern controls, and updated components all make new air handling units (AHUs) look attractive. But replacing old equipment also has a significant environmental cost. And it’s this cost that can be the key issue when you’re trying to decide the most sustainable route forward. In the right circumstances, and with the supporting calculations to prove it, choosing to refurbish existing ventilation equipment can result in reduced waste and lower levels of embodied carbon compared to installing a new unit. Making sure you have a basic understanding of embodied carbon is the first step in your decision. What is embodied carbon? Ask most people about the carbon impact of their HVAC unit, and they’ll tend to think about how much energy is used when the machine is turned on. Less obvious, though, are the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the equipment throughout its life. CIBSE’s TM65 methodology considers emissions linked to manufacture, installation, maintenance, repair, replacement, and end of life. For ventilation equipment, these ‘unseen’ greenhouse gases can be significant. Large units often contain substantial quantities of steel, aluminium, and iron, all of which have an associated carbon footprint. So while a new unit might use less energy when it’s running, its environmental impact began long before it was ever switched on. The full environmental cost of replacing HVAC units Replacing an existing AHU also involves more than manufacturing a new unit. Consider also the greenhouses gases used in its transportation to site, the dismantling and removal of the old unit, and the installation, connection, and commissioning of the new unit. Any associated construction work, like modifications to ductwork or electrical systems, also come with their own environmental cost. None of this means replacing old equipment is always the wrong sustainability choice. It’s just that both sides of the equation should be considered. Extending the life and performance of HVAC equipment Refurbishment is the single biggest thing you can do to improve both the lifespan and the ongoing performance of your existing AHU. From minor tasks, like replacing worn or inefficient components, through to upgrading fans and motors or repairing damaged sections, the amount of refurbishment needed depends on the AHU’s current condition. Even relatively small but targeted improvements can improve both the reliability and performance of an existing AHU. This also means fewer waste materials, with the majority of an existing unit staying in place and only specific elements being replaced. CIBSE’s guidance on existing building services highlights the importance of considering restoration and retrofit alongside replacement. It also offers a starting point for embodied carbon calculations. This helps you to better identify, given the importance of whole-life performance, whether refurbishment or replacement is the greener option for your specific circumstances. Refurbishment as part of a wider sustainability strategy Existing buildings will play a major role in reducing carbon emissions, which means retrofits and refurbishments are set to become more prominent than ever. But they’re not always the right approach. Sometimes, installing from new is the only sensible way forward. A comprehensive sustainability strategy recognises these two options can co-exist, even within the same building. What’s key is the best whole-life outcome, rather than the option that best aligns with a belief rather than an evidence-backed case. Good sustainability strategies also look at a series of other initiatives: reducing unnecessary energy use, improving controls, and maintaining equipment properly can all contribute to better building performance. Refurb or replace? Our experts are ready to help Before committing to a full replacement, it’s worth assessing whether your existing ventilation equipment has useful life remaining. Air Vent Technology can assess existing systems and advise on potential refurbishment or replacement options, helping you understand whether upgrading or replacing your equipment is the most appropriate route. Contact us today. We’ll be happy 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.
Commercial ventilation: why air handling units are the only sensible choice Posted on 16/01/202317/08/2023 by Ella Walker When it comes to temperature and humidity control in commercial buildings, air handling units are now widely regarded as the most effective solution for creating a consistently healthy environment. In this article, you’ll learn about the benefits of air handling units, the key considerations for choosing one, and start to understand the different options available on the commercial ventilation market. The benefits of installing air handling units in commercial settings Companies who invest in an appropriate air handling unit enjoy two immediate benefits, both of which are critical to short-, medium- and long-term success. Excellent working environment. Lots of people don’t realise that circulating air can be cleaned by an air handling unit. The humidity of the air can also be adjusted, creating the perfect working atmosphere. Both of those two advantages come on top of the traditional heating or cooling of air, giving you complete control over your indoor environment. Better health outcomes. With stale air eradicated, problematic developments such as mould and condensation are also significantly reduced or resolved entirely. This prevents both your staff and any visitors from experiencing troublesome allergic reactions and avoids future spends on professional mould removal. Air handling unit installation: the key considerations Identifying the best air handling units for your property can seem daunting at first, especially when our full range includes 29 models and the option for fully bespoke designs where necessary. But two simple principles will quickly help to guide you to a sensible choice. Where will it be installed? Your setting will go a long way to determining the type of air handling unit you need. For example, buying an air handling unit for a large, open manufacturing unit would be very different to buying an air handling unit for a small, enclosed office. Do you have appropriate installation space? As well as checking the size of your potential installation space, do you also have appropriate access to get the unit in place? With small units, doors and corridors may be large enough for the unit to be delivered already assembled. For larger units, flat-pack installation may be the only suitable option. How to choose air handling units Once you’ve got a firm understanding of what you’re looking for, choosing the best air handling unit for your needs is relatively straightforward. Small air handling units. Choose from four models with an EC motor and electric heating. Internal and external versions are available. Small air handling units with an LPHW heating coil. Select from four models each fitted with an EC motor. These are also available as internal or external models. Compact air handling units. Choose from five models with an EC motor and electric heating. Internal and external versions are available. Compact air handling units with an LPHW heating coil. Select from five models each fitted with an EC motor. These are also available as internal or external models. Large air handling units. These custom-built units are available in 11 standard sizes. Fully bespoke designs can also be provided. Get the complete package with Air Vent Technology Whichever air handling unit you require, our experienced team is ready to provide all the assistance you need. Our Site Engineering Services (SES) team is trusted across the UK to install and maintain commercial air handling units of all shapes and sizes. Whether it’s refurbishment and repair, ongoing servicing, or flat-pack installation, we’ve got you covered! Contact us today and take the first step towards an exciting new air handling unit for your commercial property.
