Heat recovery is a technology that helps to significantly reduce energy consumption for home heating. Translated from Latin, this term means «returning, receiving back». It is this phrase that explains how a recuperator works. The technology removes the «exhaust» air from the apartment and fills it with fresh, outdoor air. A special heat exchanger is located inside the unit, which collects heat from the room and heats the outside air with it. As a result, the room receives warm air flows that do not require additional heating, meaning that users do not spend extra energy and money on heating their homes.

Installing a recuperator is an effective way to combat mould

Indoor mould is not only an unpleasant defect in the appearance of walls, ceilings or interior items. It is a real health hazard, as some types of mould produce microtoxins that adversely affect the respiratory system, skin and immunity. Black mould on the walls of apartments and private houses is caused by various factors. Most often, it is:

• High humidity. The main cause of mould growth. Mould begins to grow when the humidity in the room is consistently at 60% or higher.
• Insufficient ventilation. Closed and poorly ventilated rooms provoke the accumulation of moisture, which creates a favourable environment for the growth of mould.
• Water ingress. Leaking roofs, pipes, or groundwater penetration can cause walls and other surfaces to become damp, where mould will begin to grow.
• Improper heating. If the house is not heated evenly, condensation can form on cold surfaces, which causes mould to grow.
• Building materials. Some materials, especially wood, plasterboard, or carpet, can be particularly sensitive to moisture and become a breeding ground for mould.
• Plant and soil residues. Mould can often appear in areas where there are plants or soil, such as flower pots.
• Poor thermal insulation. If the walls, windows, or roof of the house are poorly insulated, this can lead to cold bridges where water condenses, creating a favourable environment for mould growth.

Taking these factors into account, you can develop a strategy for preventing and controlling mould, because the best way to deal with it is to prevent it from occurring.

How to remove mould: the main methods

Thorough cleaning.

Let’s talk about how to get rid of mould in rooms at home. First of all, you need to do a thorough cleaning. The best way to do this is to use special anti-mould products that can be purchased at any household chemical store. Apply these products to the areas affected by mould and use them according to the instructions.

Please note that you should not only worry about removing mould on the walls at home, but also about eliminating the causes of mould. If you don’t minimise their impact, mould will appear again and again.

Maintaining the optimum humidity level.

Excessive humidity in your apartment can cause fungus and mould to grow. So be sure to buy an electronic hydrometer to help you monitor the conditions in your apartment.

To reduce the humidity level, use special dehumidifiers that can be installed directly in the rooms.

Improve ventilation.

Ventilate the room regularly, especially after cooking, showering, or doing laundry. Of course, the best way to improve ventilation is to install a high-quality ventilation system with a heat recovery unit. It will provide constant access to fresh air, remove exhaust air and maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.

Fixing water leakage problems.

Check the roof, windows and walls for leaks. Ensure proper water drainage from the house by installing gutters. Periodically clean them of dirt.

Thermal insulation is important.

Insulate walls and ceilings whenever possible to avoid condensation, which promotes mould growth.

How does a heat recovery unit help fight mould on walls?

Installing a heat recovery unit to combat excessive humidity ensures:

• compliance with the required air exchange;
• removal of excessive humidity;
• heating of the supply air;
• filling the room with clean, filtered air.

The air flows enter the house already cleared of dust when using a filter. With natural ventilation, a large percentage of heat goes outside, forcing homeowners to connect additional heating or air conditioning devices. This leads to excessive energy consumption, so experts recommend installing forced ventilation.

For more information on installing a recuperator, please contact us. Prana offers effective solutions for homes, offices, and industrial premises.