Energy Recovery Ventilation Systems (ERVs)

An energy recovery ventilation (ERV) system is designed to improve indoor air quality while reducing energy consumption. ERVs use a heat exchanger to transfer heat and moisture between incoming and outgoing air streams, allowing for the recovery of energy to be lost during ventilation.

In the winter, the ERV system recovers heat from the warm, stale indoor air and uses it to preheat the cold, fresh outdoor air before it enters the building. In the summer, the process is reversed: the ERV system removes heat and humidity from the hot, humid outdoor air and transfers it to the cooler, drier indoor air.

By using an ERV system, building owners can reduce their energy consumption by reducing the amount of heating and cooling required to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. Additionally, ERVs can help to improve indoor air quality by removing pollutants and allergens from the incoming air stream.

Some Statistics

  • According to the U.S. Department of Energy, ERV systems can reduce HVAC energy consumption by up to 50%.
  • The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) estimates that ERV systems can result in annual energy cost savings of 15% to 40% compared to conventional HVAC systems.
  • A study by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found that an ERV system installed in a California office building resulted in annual HVAC energy savings of approximately 56%.
  • The American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) states that the use of ERV systems can lead to a reduction in peak cooling and heating loads, which can lead to smaller HVAC equipment and potential lower upfront costs.

Overall, the potential savings from an ERV system will depend on factors such as building size, location, and climate. However, the statistics above demonstrate that ERV systems have the potential to provide significant energy and cost savings, making them a worthwhile investment for many building owners.

Contact HIM Mechanical about installing an energy recovery ventilation system at your home or business: 508-697-5000