- Will an ERV help reduce radon and odors in the home?
- How often is it necessary to service an ERV?
- Is a special type of heating or cooling system necessary in order to use an ERV?
- Can an ERV be installed in an existing home, as well as a new home?
- What is the difference between a HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator) and an ERV?
- What is the main benefit of an ERV?
- Does every home need an HRV or ERV?
Will an ERV help reduce radon and odors in the home?
Yes, although it’s difficult to quote specific efficiencies for each type of pollutant. The fact that stale indoor air is constantly being replaced by fresh outside air is your assurance that this is taking place.
How often is it necessary to service an ERV?
We recommend about every six months. The simple procedures are fully described on the instructions provided with each unit. These maintenance procedures can be completed by you or your contractor. Here are the general maintenance activities: - Clean the permanent filters and re-coat with adhesive as necessary. - Clean energy transfer core by lightly vacuuming with a soft brush attachment. - Check the fresh air intake vent and clean as necessary.
Is a special type of heating or cooling system necessary in order to use an ERV?
No. An ERV can be utilized with any forced air system equipped with a blower and duct system. It can also be used with non-forced air systems as an independent system.
Can an ERV be installed in an existing home, as well as a new home?
Yes, it can be installed in any home and become an integral part of the heating and air conditioning system. Your heating and cooling contractor can furnish specific details for your home - please use our "Find a Local Contractor" on this site to find one near you.
What is the difference between a HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator) and an ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilator)?
Heat recovery ventilators will transfer temperature only from the high temperature air to the low temperature air. Energy recovery ventilators transfer both temperature and moisture. Since transferring both temperature and moisture has benefits in both winter and summer, ERV's are a better choice in all but the most northern climates for providing year-round fresh air to the home.
What is the main benefit of an ERV?
It constantly supplies fresh air to provide a healthy indoor environment by reducing odors and/or indoor pollutants, such as radon, formaldehyde, tobacco smoke, nitrogen dioxides, carbon monoxide and pesticides.
Does every home need an HRV or ERV?
Every home needs ventilation of some kind. The only other option to mechanical ventilation is to keep doors and windows open a good portion of each day. Understandably, this is rarely possible because of weather, safety or noise concerns. Installing a GeneralAire® ERV or HRV helps to keep your indoor air fresh, safe and free of pollutants.
