dMEV Extractor Fans

Buying Guide | dMEV Fans FAQs

What is the Difference between MEV and dMEV?

What are the Benefits of dMEV Fans?

What is the Best dMEV fan?

How Quiet are dMEV Fans?

Are dMEV Fans Good for Bathrooms?

Do you need Trickle Vents with dMEV Fans?

Are dMEV Fans Expensive to Run?

Are dMEV Fans Expensive to Install?

What is the Difference between MEV and dMEV?

Standard Mechanical Extract Ventilation (MEV) systems consist of a central fan unit connected to ducts throughout a house, typically servicing rooms at risk of mildew or mould, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and utility rooms.

On the other hand, dMEV extractor fans (Decentralised Mechanical Extract Ventilation) act as self-contained units installed directly in the target room. Each dMEV fan handles extraction at the source without the need for ducting, making them a more flexible and efficient solution.

What are the Benefits of dMEV Fans?

Targeted Extraction - Each dMEV fan can be individually controlled for precise ventilation, tailored to the needs of specific rooms and personal preferences. This makes DMEV extractor fans more energy-efficient compared to MEV systems, which are designed to serve an entire building and often operate at less efficient levels.

Reduced Noise Levels - DMEV extractor fans run continuously at very low speeds, avoiding the noise spikes associated with traditional on/off ventilation systems. This ensures a quieter environment, especially in living spaces.

Simplified Installation and Maintenance - Since dMEV fans are installed directly in the target room, there’s no need for complex or expensive ductwork. This not only simplifies installation but also makes DMEV extractor fans ideal for retrofitting into existing buildings.

Improved Indoor Air Quality - The continuous operation of dMEV fans ensures that humidity, allergens, dust particles, and other contaminants are consistently removed, significantly improving indoor air quality.

What is the best dMEV fan?

Our bestseller is Greenwood's industry-leading Unity CV2GIP. Known for its quiet operation, built-in humidity sensor, overrun timer, and user-friendly touchpad, this dMEV fan is a favourite among both tradespeople and homeowners.

How quiet are dMEV Fans?

DMEV extractor fans are designed for maximum ventilation with minimal noise. Featuring energy-efficient motors and soundproofed designs, most dMEV fans operate at just 15-25 db(A). For comparison, typical extractor fans operate at 35-45 db(A), conversational speech is around 60 db(A), and a whisper is approximately 30 db(A).

Are dMEV fans good for Bathrooms?

Absolutely! The continuous low-level ventilation provided by DMEV extractor fans significantly reduces the risk of mould and mildew, especially in high-moisture areas like bathrooms. Many dMEV fans also come equipped with humidity or motion sensors to boost fan speed when needed, ensuring optimal performance.

Do you need Trickle Vents with dMEV Fans?

While trickle vents aren’t strictly necessary for dMEV fans, they can enhance performance. Trickle vents allow fresh air to flow into the room, maintaining balanced ventilation and preventing negative pressure buildup (which can cause backdrafting). While your DMEV extractor fan will function without one, adding a trickle vent can maximise efficiency and ensure optimal airflow.

Are dMEV Fans Expensive to Run?

Despite operating 24/7, dMEV fans are incredibly cost-effective due to their low wattage (typically 1-5 watts). To calculate the running cost of a DMEV extractor fan, use this formula:

Wattage of fan / 1000 * cost per unit of electricity = Cost to run a dMEV fan for 1 hour * 24 * 365 = Cost to run a dMEV fan for 1 year

For example, a 3-watt dMEV fan costs approximately £7.30 per year to run, while a 5-watt model costs around £11.

Are dMEV Fans Expensive to Install?

The installation cost of a DMEV extractor fan depends on the complexity of the project. A simple replacement using existing wiring typically costs between £100 and £200, while more complex installations involving new wiring or structural modifications may cost up to £500. While the upfront cost may be higher than traditional fans, the long-term energy savings and improved air quality make dMEV fans a worthwhile investment.

Why Shop with Electricpoint?

At Electricpoint, we believe in providing a better way to shop for electrical products online. With over 100 years of high-street experience, we aim to make your shopping experience fast, simple, and cost-effective. Our team’s expertise and dedication to customer service set us apart.

As one of the largest online electrical wholesalers, we offer:

• Extensive stock for next-day delivery
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