When a 1980s Tauranga home was transformed into a modern 269m² multi-wing residence, effective moisture management was an important consideration alongside heating, cooling and the home’s minimalist interior design.

With new double glazing, extensive insulation and a significantly more airtight building envelope, mechanical ventilation formed an important part of the overall design of this renovation. Bay of Plenty Heat Pumps incorporated Mitsubishi Electric ventilation solutions throughout the home, including dedicated extraction for the two bathrooms. 

A whole-home approach to ventilation

Moisture management was considered as part of the home’s wider ventilation strategy. In the main living areas, a Mitsubishi Electric PEAD125 Ducted Heat Pump was combined with VL220 Lossnay Fresh Air Heat Recovery Ventilation, providing fresh filtered air while recovering energy from outgoing stale air.

For areas with higher moisture loads, such as the bathrooms, dedicated Mitsubishi Electric Ducted In-Line Ventilation Fans were specified, allowing the ventilation solution to be tailored to the requirements of different spaces within the home.

Dedicated bathroom extraction

Two Mitsubishi Electric V-18ZMW-E Ducted In-Line Ventilation Fans were specified to extract moisture-laden air from the bathrooms. Locating the fan units within the ductwork and away from the extraction point provides flexibility where ceiling space is limited and helps reduce fan noise experienced within the occupied space.

For architects and specifiers, the range provides flexibility when coordinating ventilation with other building services. All models measure less than 260mm in height, while adjustable mounting brackets and removable duct spigots provide versatility during installation. Two-speed operation allows airflow to be selected to suit the application, with models ranging from 44L/s through to 215L/s.

A galvanised steel casing provides durability, while a removable cover provides access for maintenance. Low power consumption starts from 18W at low fan speed, with operating sound levels starting from 18.5dBA on the V-15ZMW-E at low speed.*

Ventilation that integrates with the interior

A key architectural consideration was ensuring the building services did not interrupt the clean lines of the home.

Rather than using standard visible grilles, Bay of Plenty Heat Pumps designed custom grilles for the project. The same linear grille design was used for the bathroom extraction and other concealed heating and ventilation systems, creating a consistent finish across the home.

The project demonstrates how bathroom extraction can be considered as part of the wider architectural design, balancing moisture management, acoustic comfort, installation flexibility and aesthetics without compromising the overall interior.