As homes become better insulated and more airtight, the need for effective ventilation solutions has become increasingly important. Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) are key in maintaining indoor air quality and energy efficiency in modern homes, especially in climates where keeping windows closed is necessary for much of the year.
An HRV not only ensures a constant influx of fresh outdoor air but also helps to conserve energy by recovering heat from the exhaust air. This guide dives into the workings of HRVs, their benefits, and how to choose the right one for your home.
What is an HRV, and How Does it Work?
An HRV is a mechanical ventilation device that helps maintain air quality without letting heat escape your home. It works by extracting stale indoor air and simultaneously bringing in fresh outdoor air. Before the stale and fresh air streams are vented in and out of the building, they pass through a heat exchanger. Here, the outgoing warm air heats the cooler incoming air, recovering a significant percentage of the heat that would otherwise be lost.
Benefits of Installing an HRV
Energy Efficiency
By recovering heat from the outgoing air, HRVs help you save on heating costs during the colder months. This efficiency is particularly beneficial in regions with harsh winters.
Improved Air Quality
HRVs continuously replace stale and potentially contaminated indoor air with fresh, filtered outdoor air. This process reduces pollutants and moisture levels inside your home and mitigates problems like mould growth and allergen accumulation.
Compatibility with Modern Homes
Modern homes are designed to be energy-efficient and airtight, which can restrict natural airflow and trap pollutants inside. HRVs address these issues, ensuring homes have fresh air without sacrificing energy efficiency.
How to Choose the Right HRV
Like many HVAC appliances, HRVs come with a range of specs. Here, we explain how to determine the right unit for your home.
Assess Your Needs
Consider the size of your home and the local climate when selecting an HRV. A unit too small won’t effectively ventilate your home, while one too large may waste energy.
Seek Professional Advice
Consulting with professionals like the Lambton ClimateCare team can help you find a unit that meets your needs and local conditions. They can recommend the best HRV system for your home’s configuration and budget.
Book Your Installation and Maintenance
Proper installation by certified professionals ensures your HRV operates efficiently. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning filters and inspecting ducts, is also crucial for optimal performance.
How Long Do HRVs Last?
HRVs are designed to be durable and can last between 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance. The lifespan of your HRV will largely depend on the quality of the unit, the complexity of the installation, and how regularly you perform maintenance checks. Regular servicing, including cleaning and replacing filters, will help make sure the system operates efficiently for as long as possible.
Are HRVs Noisy?
Modern HRV operate quietly, so you can rest assured there won’t be any major disruption to your household. The noise level largely depends on the quality of the unit and its installation. Higher quality models are equipped with additional features to reduce noise, and professional installation can further mitigate any sound issues by ensuring that the system is properly balanced and ducts are correctly insulated.
Can HRVs Work with Any Heating System?
Yes, HRVs can be integrated with virtually any heating system, including forced air furnaces, boilers, and radiant heating systems. They function independently of your home’s heating system, primarily focusing on ventilating stale air out and bringing fresh air in while recovering heat energy from the exhaust air.
Do HRVs Reduce Home Humidity Levels?
Yes, HRVs can help manage and reduce humidity levels in your home. By continuously exchanging moist indoor air with drier outdoor air, HRVs can effectively lower the overall humidity level inside your house. This is beneficial during the colder months when indoor humidity levels can rise due to activities like cooking and showering. That said, this process is a more passive one. An ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilator) can manage humidity levels more precisely.
What is the Difference Between an HRV and an ERV?
The primary difference between a Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) and an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) is moisture transfer. HRVs only exchange heat, which makes them ideal for those who are only worried about their heating bills. ERVs exchange both heat and moisture, making them better suited for climates where humidity control is needed both in warm and cold conditions. This makes ERVs a more versatile option for managing overall indoor climate.
How Much Does an HRV Cost?
In Canada, the cost to install a Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) varies based on factors such as the type of system (single-room vs. whole-home), the existing ductwork in your home, and regional labour rates. Generally, a whole-home HRV system installation can range from $1,000 to $4,500 or more.
This estimate can be lower if the HRV is installed simultaneously with a furnace. Single-room units are less expensive, with costs typically ranging from $200 to $1,100, excluding installation labour.
Why Partner with Lambton ClimateCare for Your HRV Installation?
At Lambton ClimateCare, we understand the importance of a well-ventilated home for both health and energy efficiency. Incorporating a Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) into your HVAC system is a smart move—you’ll get a boost in indoor air quality, all while reducing energy loss.
Choosing us for your HRV needs means you benefit from our expertise and professional installation services. We are committed to helping you optimize your home’s comfort, health, and energy efficiency year-round. Trust Lambton ClimateCare to deliver high-quality HRV solutions in Point Edward, and book with our team today!
