Change is afoot for the Eurovent Certified Performance programme for Air Handling Units (AHUs). 2024 has seen two big improvements with the introduction of a new test methodology and new energy class calculations. We spoke to Project Manager, Donatien Lambert, about the evolution of the AHU programme and what the changes mean for manufacturers and HVAC professionals alike.

Changes to test methodology

The AHU programme has evolved in response to manufacturer feedback. Donatien explained, “We have taken steps to reduce the number of tests required, streamlining the process for manufacturers, while ensuring the tests we do undertake are more representative of actual performance.” It’s win-win for manufacturers and HVAC professionals, as the programme attains a more integrated approach to product evaluation, with certified data bearing even more realistic results. 

Hi Donatien, can you tell us about the changes to supply and exhaust testing?

Donatien: “Our main aim in re-thinking the test methodology was to evaluate AHUs more holistically. Previously, the supply and exhaust AHUs were tested separately. Now both the supply and exhaust units are tested at the same time, with all points tested together. This offers a much more cohesive and efficient approach to product testing." 

Has there been reductions in the tests required?

Donatien: “Yes. Simplifying and streamlining the programme was also a priority. Previously we regularly tested both real units and model boxes. From 2024 there will be no surveillance tests for model boxes, and model box tests will only be required if the unit undergoes changes or is new to certification. The process has been simplified to avoid unnecessary testing.” 

Can you tell us about the addition of humidity efficiency testing?

Donatien: “We have introduced humidity efficiency testing for heat recovery systems (HRS). Prior to 2024, laboratory tests included the efficiency of the HRS and its capacity to recover heat under dry conditions. From now on, humidity efficiency under summer conditions will be tested. This is because humidity efficiency plays an important role in energy class rating.”

What’s in store for internal leakage test requirements?

Donatien: “Amends have also been made to the testing of the internal leakage of the unit. The more airflow that is lost, the harder the fan must work, and the more energy is consumed. Besides, for hygienic reasons, leakages shall be minimised. It is therefore vital that the results gained for internal leakage tests gives an accurate and reliable result. The units are now tested to include the Outdoor Air Correction Factor (OACF) as well as the Exhaust Air Transfer Ratio (EATR).” 

What updates have been made to the TCR for the testing of filters?

Donatien: "For the 2025 campaign onwards, if no Eurovent-certified filters are selectable in the software, an additional test is required to test the filter ISO efficiency of the selected filter. This filter test is not required if a filter efficiency laboratory test report according to EN ISO 16890:2016 is supplied to Eurovent Certification.

“This new requirement will improve the certification programme. Indeed, until now the pressure drop of the unit is checked by testing the unit. However, if the filter is not Eurovent certified, or if we have no test report as proof, we are not checking that the filter ISO efficiency is the one related to the pressure drop of the filter. With this new requirement, we will be able to check this point.”