What Are ERVs and HRVs?

ERVs and HRVs are whole-home ventilation systems designed to provide a steady supply of fresh, filtered air without the energy losses you'd get from simply opening a window. They work by using a central heat exchanger to pre-condition incoming air with the energy from outgoing air.

Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV): An HRV transfers only heat between the exhaust and incoming air streams. In winter, it captures heat from warm, stale indoor air and uses it to warm the fresh outdoor air before bringing it inside. In summer, it works in reverse removing some of the heat from hot incoming air before it enters your home. Best for cold or dry climates where humidity control is less of a concern and efficient heat transfer is the priority.

Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV): An ERV transfers both heat and moisture. In humid climates, this helps prevent excess moisture from entering your home with the fresh air stream. In dry conditions, it helps retain indoor humidity to avoid overly dry air. This added moisture control helps reduce the load on your HVAC system and creates a more balanced, comfortable indoor environment year-round. Best for humid or variable climates where moisture levels fluctuate or indoor comfort is affected by dry air.

Why Ventilation and IAQ Matter

Today’s homes are more energy-efficient than ever before, thanks to better insulation, tighter construction, and advanced sealing techniques. While this helps reduce heating and cooling losses, it also means indoor air can become stagnant and polluted. Without proper ventilation, airborne contaminants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), dust, pollen, mold spores, and carbon dioxide (CO₂) can accumulate over time often to levels higher than those found outdoors. Poor indoor air quality can trigger allergies, worsen asthma symptoms, cause fatigue or headaches, and even impact long-term respiratory health.

It also affects comfort: air that feels stuffy, overly humid, or too dry can make your home feel unpleasant even when temperatures are ideal. That’s where mechanical ventilation comes in. Properly designed systems bring in fresh outdoor air while exhausting stale indoor air without sacrificing energy efficiency. Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) and Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) are two leading solutions that not only improve IAQ, but also help maintain ideal indoor temperature and humidity conditions.

Which System Is Best for Your Climate?

Cold, Dry Climates

HRVs are usually preferred because they prevent adding extra humidity to dry indoor air, which can cause discomfort and damage to woodwork.

Hot, Humid Climates

ERVs help balance humidity by transferring moisture between air streams, preventing excess indoor moisture buildup and reducing the load on your air conditioner.

Mixed Climates

ERVs are often recommended for year-round comfort because they manage both temperature and humidity effectively.

Integrating ERVs and HRVs with Other IAQ Solutions

To optimize indoor air quality, consider pairing your ERV or HRV with:

• Whole-House Air Purifiers: These systems remove microscopic contaminants like bacteria and viruses.

• High-Quality Air Filters: MERV 13 or higher filters in your HVAC system trap fine dust, pollen, and allergens.

• Smart Thermostats and Controls: To automate ventilation schedules based on occupancy and air quality.

Learn more about these options in our Air Purifiers and Filters sections.

How HVAC365 Supports Your Ventilation and IAQ Needs

At HVAC365, we understand that indoor air quality isn't just a luxury, it's a vital part of a healthy, efficient home. That’s why we offer a curated selection of high-performance Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) from the industry’s most trusted manufacturers. Whether you're dealing with humidity challenges, allergy triggers, or general air stagnation, we have solutions tailored to your environment and lifestyle. But we don’t stop at ventilation. Our inventory also includes a full line of IAQ-enhancing products, including:

• Whole-house air purifiers for removing airborne pollutants like pet dander, smoke, and VOCs

• High-efficiency particulate filters (MERV 13 and above) to capture fine dust and allergens

• UV-C light systems that neutralize bacteria, viruses, and mold spores within your HVAC ductwork

• Dehumidifiers and humidifiers to help maintain healthy indoor moisture levels year-round

What to Do Next

1. Evaluate your local climate and typical indoor humidity levels.

2. Decide if heat-only recovery (HRV) or heat-and-moisture recovery (ERV) suits your home.

3. Review HVAC365’s product offerings and request expert advice.

4. Consider adding air purifiers and upgraded filters for comprehensive IAQ improvement.

5. Schedule installation with a certified HVAC professional.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an ERV or HRV with any HVAC system?
Yes, these ventilators are compatible with most HVAC setups and can integrate into existing ductwork.

How much energy can I save with ERVs or HRVs?
By recovering heat or moisture, these systems can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 40%, depending on climate and usage.

Do ERVs add moisture to the air?
ERVs transfer moisture both ways to balance indoor humidity, preventing overly dry or humid conditions.

Are ERVs or HRVs noisy?
Modern units operate quietly, typically below 40 decibels, similar to a quiet conversation.

How often do I need to maintain these systems?
Regular filter replacement and annual inspection are recommended to keep performance optimal.

Final Thoughts

Investing in an ERV or HRV system is one of the most effective ways to enhance your home’s indoor air quality (IAQ) while improving energy efficiency. These systems deliver a constant flow of fresh air, reduce the buildup of indoor pollutants, and help maintain comfortable humidity levels all without compromising your heating or cooling performance. The right choice between an ERV and HRV depends on your local climate conditions and humidity management goals.

Whether you're looking to combat dry winter air or manage summer humidity, there's a system designed to match your needs. At HVAC365, we offer a carefully selected range of ventilation products from trusted brands, along with expert guidance to help you make the best decision for your home. From whole-house solutions to IAQ add-ons like filters, purifiers, and humidity control, we’re here to help you breathe easier and live healthier.

Explore HVAC365’s full selection of ERV systems today, and find the perfect fit for your home’s ventilation and comfort needs.

TL;DR

ERVs and HRVs boost indoor air quality by replacing stale indoor air with fresh, filtered outdoor air without wasting energy. HRVs are ideal for cold, dry climates, while ERVs work best in humid or variable conditions. For optimal results, pair with air purifiers and high-efficiency filters. HVAC365 offers a complete lineup of ventilation and IAQ solutions tailored to your home's needs.