Heat Recovery Ventilation: Benefits, Savings and How It Works
What Is Heat Recovery Ventilation?
Heat recovery ventilation (HRV) — and its moisture-recovering cousin, energy recovery ventilation (ERV) — is a balanced ventilation system that exhausts stale indoor air and supplies fresh outdoor air while transferring heat (and, in an ERV, moisture) between the two streams through an air-to-air heat exchanger. You get fresh air without throwing away the energy used to condition it.
Why It Pays Off
Tight, well-insulated buildings trap stale air and moisture. Simply opening windows wastes heating or cooling. HRV/ERV recovers 70–85% of that energy on every air change, so you ventilate properly and keep the bill down.
Key Benefits
- Lower energy bills — pre-conditioned supply cuts heating and cooling load.
- Better indoor air — steady fresh air removes CO2, odours, and pollutants.
- Controlled humidity — an ERV balances moisture, reducing mould and over-dry air.
- Comfort — no cold drafts from open windows; even temperatures.
- Quieter — filtered, mechanical ventilation beats open-window noise.
HRV vs ERV
HRV transfers heat only; ERV transfers heat and moisture. Use HRV in cold, dry climates and ERV in humid or mixed climates. Both use plate or rotary cores — see plates for leak-tight recovery and wheels for large volumes.
Where It Works Best
Homes, schools, offices, hospitals, and any tightly built space with mechanical ventilation. In cold climates the payback is fastest because make-up air is heated heavily.
FAQ
Does HRV really save money?
Yes — by recovering most of the conditioning energy on every air change, it typically cuts ventilation heating/cooling cost by the effectiveness rate (70–85%).
Is an ERV worth the extra cost?
In humid or mixed climates, yes: it cuts dehumidification and cooling load, often paying back the small premium.
Conclusion
Heat recovery ventilation gives you fresh air and lower bills at once. Match the core to your climate and hygiene needs, and size it with our selection guide.