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● MVHR fault guide

MVHR Red Light or Fault Warning? What It Means and What to Do

A red or flashing light on your MVHR usually means a fault that needs attention. Here’s what the common warning signs mean and when to call an engineer.

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THE SHORT ANSWER

What a red light usually means

On most MVHR units, a red or flashing light means the unit has detected a fault, most often a failed fan or circuit board. Some units also use a light to remind you the filters are due.

Every manufacturer uses its lights and codes differently, so check your unit’s manual for the exact meaning. If the light stays on after you’ve checked the filters, the unit needs an engineer.

MVHR circuit board being repaired

Warning signs and likely causes

What we usually find behind each symptom.

Red or flashing light

A failed fan or circuit board, or a filter reminder on some units.

Loud or rattling unit

Worn fan bearings or a blockage in the system.

Water leaking

Often a blocked or badly fitted condensate drain.

Weak or no airflow

Blocked filters, ducts or valves, or a fan that has stopped.

Condensation and mould

Airflow too low or the system out of balance.

Musty smells

Dirty filters, ducts or heat exchanger.

What to do now

A few safe checks before you call anyone.

Fault-finding and repair prices

Engineer checking an MVHR control panel
Start here

Fault Finding Visit

£80

Full diagnosis, duct and airflow checks, PCB testing, written repair quote.

MVHR circuit board being repaired

Repairs

From £150

Fans, circuit boards, ducts and leaks. Parts quoted before work starts.

Cleaned MVHR heat exchanger after a full service

Full MVHR Service

£149

Deep clean, new filters, airflow tested and rebalanced in every room, photo report. 90–120 min.

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What customers say after a Ventfix visit.

Patricia Paynter
“Excellent service. I was given advice and information about my vent and the issues it can cause in my flat if it’s not working. My vent was repaired and has been working really well ever since!”
Natalie
“Detailed and thorough inspection where everything was explained fully. The engineer was polite and very helpful. I wouldn’t hesitate in using again.”
Chris M.
“The engineer arrived within the allotted time, was polite, friendly and efficient. Spent just under an hour servicing the unit, ducts and changing filters.”
Steve Mackay
“Engineer was on time and very friendly. Answered all my questions on the unit and did a quick and thorough inspection. Very satisfied.”
Stephen Viiney
“The engineer took time and care to ensure our Vent-Axia Sentinel MVHR is in good shape. He also cleaned all the outlets and checked the flow rates.”

MVHR fault questions

It’s best not to leave it for long. A unit in fault mode usually isn’t ventilating properly, which lets moisture, condensation and mould build up.

Some units have a filter reset once the filters are changed, so check your manual. If a fault light comes back, the cause needs fixing.

A fault-finding visit is £80 and includes a written quote. Repairs start from £150 plus parts.

Yes. We work on all makes and models, including Vent-Axia, Nuaire, Zehnder and Titon.

Red light still on?

Book a fault-finding visit and get a fixed repair quote.

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