What is the difference between a heat recovery ventilator and an energy recovery ventilator?
A ventilator does exactly what you think it does – it ventilates or changes the air in an indoor space with fresh outdoor air. Indoor air that is not changed or ventilated can cause many problems. Houses are built very tight to conserve energy but then cannot “breathe”. The stale, often contaminated indoor air re-circulates in the residence. Ventilation of any home will definately improve the indoor air quality and prevent mildew, odors and moisture. A HEAT RECOVERY VENTILATOR will exchange indoor with outdoor air and exchange the heat energy to remain efficient. An ENERGY RECOVERY VENTILATOR will exchange indoor with outdoor air and exchange both the heat and cooler air to remain efficient. Really the choice depends on the lifestyle of the residents. If you keep your windows and doors closed all summer and maintain your home’s temperature with air conditioning, you would choose an ERV (energy recovery ventilator). Usually families that are bothered by seasonal allergies or asthma make
