Is an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) Worth it?

With today’s soaring electricity costs, homeowners are paying more attention to the overall efficiency of their properties.

New construction projects are crafted with superior insulation and airtightness standards. Unfortunately, while these standards can make a structure more energy-efficient, it also lowers the natural flow of fresh air into your home, causing indoor air quality to suffer.

Poor indoor air quality or ventilation can pose health risks to occupants and lead to several complications for both your health and home.

This is where ERVs come in. They provide a simple, reliable, and proven solution to homeowners seeking improved air ventilation while conserving energy.

What Is An Energy Recovery Ventilator?

An ERV is a ventilation system containing two fans through which fresh and clean air is pulled in and stale air is exhausted from your surroundings. It is typically connected to your central HVAC system via ductwork. 

Some systems come equipped with heat exchangers that facilitate the transfer of moisture and heat between air streams, allowing your indoor spaces to retain heat during the process.

Apart from transferring moisture and heat between airstreams, ERVs have an advanced filtration system that effectively captures pollutants, contaminants, allergens, pollen, and more, ensuring the air entering your home or office is healthy, safe, and free of any harmful particles.

Did you know air quality inside most homes is roughly five times more polluted than the outdoor air?

Filthy air is a matter of grave concern since most people spend about 90 percent of their time within their homes or other indoor spaces.

How Do ERV Systems Work?

ERV units have two fans. One that takes the stale indoor air out and one that brings fresh outside air in. Both of these airstreams pass through the ERV’s core, where heat energy and moisture are exchanged between them.

Essentially, this means the air coming in will have the same temperature as the air going out. This energy transfer can help regulate indoor humidity as well. However, if you live in an extremely humid climate, you may need a dedicated dehumidification system separate from your ERV. 

While the two air streams can transfer energy, the filtration system in the ERV makes sure to remove harmful pollutants and allergens. The air coming into your home through the ERV is fresh and clean.

Benefits of Installing an ERV System

• Improved air quality. This is especially true for those suffering from asthma, allergies, sinusitis, and other respiratory conditions 
• Boosting overall energy efficiency of indoor spaces
• Removal/filtration of pollutants, allergens, formaldehyde, and other forms of toxins from indoor spaces
• Reducing complete dependency on air conditioning and HVAC systems
• Mitigating the risk humidity borne mold, algae, and mildew 
• Less strain on your HVAC system
• Limiting bathroom, kitchen, and pet odors from spreading
• Improved sleep by addressing indoor air quality concerns
• Reduced buildup of dust, pollen, pet dander, and other air pollutants

How Much Do ERV Systems Cost?

On average, an ERV system can cost anywhere between $1,000 to $4,500. According to some sources, the national average for installing an ERV system is $2000.

However, several factors may affect the final cost of installing an ERV, such as: 

• ERV model or brand
• Furnace placement 
• Ventilation requirement 
• Size of your home 
• Location of your home
• Existing ductwork 
• Installation costs of Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) for purified & quality air 

Is an Energy Recovery Ventilator Worth it?

ERVs are meant to work in conjunction with your central HVAC system. They are the most beneficial for homes with ventilation and air quality concerns.

They can save homeowners a bit of money on utility bills but their main benefit is improved indoor air quality. For homes that constantly feel “stuffy” and people who suffer from asthma, allergies and respiratory conditions, ERVs can be a lifesaver. 

This article is meant to give you more information on these systems but if you have questions about an ERV installation in your home, you should contact a qualified HVAC company.

All homes are a little different and some solutions may work better than others.