As homes become more airtight for energy efficiency, ventilation without sacrificing comfort has become a priority. Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV) systems are a solution – fresh air flow is maintained while saving energy. For anyone who has ever considered an HRV system but is unsure of its merits and drawbacks, this heat recovery ventilation system pros and cons guide will help you make an informed decision.
A Heat Recovery ventilation (HRV) system provides fresh air with low energy loss. It pulls stale air from indoors, recovers heat from it and uses that energy to warm the coming fresh air. HRV systems provide healthy indoor airflow and humidity balance.
If you are also considering Energy Recovery Ventilation – ERV – see also how ERV differs from HRV. An ERV can recover heat plus moisture so is more appropriate in humid climates. Here is a comparison of energy recovery ventilation pros and cons:
Aspect | Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV) | Energy Recovery Ventilation (ERV) |
Primary Function | Transfers heat from outgoing air to incoming air for efficiency. | Transfers heat and moisture for efficiency and humidity control. |
Best for Climate | Cold or temperate climates with low to moderate humidity levels. | Humid climates where moisture control is crucial. |
Energy Efficiency | High, as it reduces heating and cooling costs. | High, with added benefit of moisture balance. |
Humidity Control | Limited, can make indoor air dry in winter. | Balances indoor humidity, preventing excess dryness. |
Cost | Lower upfront cost compared to ERV systems. | Slightly higher upfront cost due to additional functionality. |
Maintenance | Requires regular filter cleaning and occasional inspections. | Requires similar maintenance but may need additional checks for moisture. |
Installation Space | Needs adequate space for equipment and ducting. | Similar space requirements as HRV systems. |
Suitability for Cold Climates | Works well, but additional heating might be needed in extreme cold. | Less efficient in cold climates, especially if dry air isn’t a concern. |
Suitability for Hot Climates | Less effective for managing humidity in hot, humid conditions. | Effective in hot, humid conditions due to moisture recovery. |
Environmental Impact | Reduces carbon footprint by lowering energy use. | Similar environmental benefits with added moisture control. |
When choosing an HRV versus an ERV, consider your local climate, home size and budget. In a temperate or cold climate where humidity control is not a major concern, an HRV system is a good choice for comfort and energy efficiency. For humid regions however an ERV may be more appropriate.
Knowing the heat recovery ventilation system pros and cons will help you decide if it’s right for your home. The initial costs are high, but the energy savings, better indoor air quality and consistent comfort mean HRV systems are a smart investment for many homeowners.
Here at Hamilton Air Conditioning, we install and maintain advanced HRV/ ERV systems. We’ll help you pick the best ventilation solution for your home. Call today to discuss your needs and get custom HVAC solutions for your place.