Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV)
What is an ERV?
- An ERV improves indoor air quality in airtight homes by continuously exchanging stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air.
- ERVs filter outdoor air to remove pollutants.
- It saves energy by transferring heat and moisture between the outgoing and incoming air streams, pre-conditioning the air to keep indoor temperatures and humidity comfortable.
Benefits of an ERV:
- Minimize Energy Loss: Recovers about 70-80% of energy from exiting air
- Lower Utility Bills: By recovering energy you save on heating and cooling costs
- Control the Ventilation of Your Home
- Better Indoor Air Quality: Filters for pollutants, helps lower radon levels
- Enhanced Comfort: An ERV regulates humidity to keep you comfortable
Which Homes Need an ERV?
- Tightly Built or Very Energy Efficient Homes: These homes often don’t get enough natural ventilation—making indoor air stale or humid.
- Homes with Indoor Air Quality Concerns: Homes with radon, moisture problems, or lingering odors also benefit from controlled, balanced ventilation.
Cost Breakdown:
- Total Cost: $1,000-$6,000
- Determining factors include: size, installation complexity and any potential need for new ductwork
Key Considerations:
- Climate Suitability: ERVs are most cost effective in places with extreme winters and summers compared to mild climates.
- Fuel Cost: If the cost of fuel in your area is high, then an ERV may be very effective in keeping utility bills down by preventing your heating or cooling system from having to work harder.
- Size Requirements: ERVs are usually sized to provide at least 0.35 air changes per hour. An expert can help you find the right size for your home.
What's Next?
Book a free one-on-one energy consultation with our Energy Navigator.
- Discuss your options for installing an ERV and other energy upgrades
- Get connected to available incentives and rebates to help you save money