Heat Recovery Ventilators vs. Energy Recovery Ventilators

Thanks to the superior efficiency they offer, air recovery ventilators are getting increasingly popular among homeowners in Evans, Georgia. However, people often remain confused over choosing between a heat recovery ventilator and an energy recovery ventilator. Knowing the differences between the two can help you choose the right type to meet your needs.

Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRV)

An HRV system introduces fresh external air into your home and forces out the stale indoor air. While doing so, it reclaims heat from the air being exhausted and transfers it to the incoming air. Thus, during winter, the incoming air is warmed, and during summer, it is cooled, using the heat retained from the outgoing air. This reduces the amount of energy required to bring the newly introduced air to the internal room temperature.

The exchange of heat between two streams of air is done through conduction by passing them through separate channels in the ventilator, without ever mixing them.

Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERV)

An ERV works much like an HRV but it goes a step further and also exchanges humidity. In winter, an ERV captures humidity from the extracted air and transfers it to the incoming stream of air. The process reverses in summer, and the additional moisture in the outside air is removed before circulating it around your home. This helps maintain indoor humidity at a comfortable level with a minimal load on your HVAC system.

Choosing between an HRV and an ERV System

Both types of ventilation systems use ducts and fans and retain about 70 percent of energy from the reconditioned air that’s being sent out. Energy recovery ventilators are usually more suitable for warmer climates, where you need to dehumidify the incoming air. For smaller homes in colder climates, a heat recovery ventilator would be a better choice.

Buying and installing either type of ventilation system involves substantial cost. Doc Savage Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. can help you choose and install the right type of ventilation for your home. Contact our team of certified HVAC professionals to discuss your ventilation needs. Call 706-426-9262 now.

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