Energy recovery ventilators

How energy recovery ventilators work

A core transfers some heat and moisture between outgoing and incoming air streams while keeping them separate.

Performance in a real building depends on the equipment, the distribution path and the installation. Compare a specific product's published specifications with the needs of the room or building before treating a retail listing as a complete solution.

Types and configurations

Central ducted ERVs and compact units.

Different configurations can share a category name while having very different electrical, duct, piping and control requirements. Confirm the exact model and components included in any quote.

Where they are used

Homes where humidity management matters. A professional assessment should establish the required capacity and identify any site constraints, especially for permanently installed equipment.

What to compare

Humidity, climate, airflow balance, filtration and core characteristics guide selection.

Climate suitability, airflow balance, filters, and controls. Review warranty conditions and installation requirements along with the headline rating.

Technical details that matter

An energy recovery ventilator exchanges both sensible heat and some moisture through its core. It moderates outdoor-air load but is not a dehumidifier and cannot guarantee a target indoor relative humidity. Filtration and measured airflow remain important.

Example application

In a humid climate, consider the ERV together with the building envelope and active dehumidification. Compare the stated sensible and latent recovery performance at the expected operating conditions.

Installation and ownership

Allow for equipment, compatible components, labor, controls, site work and any local requirements in the total cost. Published retailer prices represent the stated equipment only unless the listing explicitly includes more.

Clean or replace filters and inspect the core and drain according to the manufacturer.

Source

US DOE Building Science: Energy Recovery Ventilation ↗

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