Is central HRV always the best or most logical solution?

No. Central HRV can be a good choice, especially when there is enough space for ducts and shafts, the construction logistics allow it, and management is organised centrally. In existing buildings, factors such as ceiling height, fire compartmentation, asbestos, limited shaft space, occupied conditions or the desired phasing can make a central approach complicated. In that case, decentralised HRV is a serious alternative that needs to be assessed per project.