Energy-recovery Ventilators
Energy-recovery Ventilators | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Bristol
Feel the difference that precision-engineered, energy-recovery ventilation makes to every room in your Bristol home. HEP pairs advanced heat-exchange technology with smart controls to reclaim up to 90 % of the warmth normally lost through stale air extraction, quietly refreshing your living spaces while trimming your energy bills. From snug Victorian terraces to modern waterfront apartments, our tailored systems slot seamlessly into existing heating and air-conditioning setups, ensuring optimal comfort whatever the West Country weather decides to do.
HEP’s accredited technicians don’t just install hardware; we safeguard your family’s wellbeing. By continuously filtering pollutants, allergens, and excess humidity, our solutions elevate indoor breathing conditions to a new standard of ventilation and air quality, helping you sleep better, think clearer, and protect your property from mould. Book a friendly survey today and discover how effortless fresh air can be.
FAQs
What exactly is an energy-recovery ventilator (ERV) and how does it work?
An ERV is a mechanical ventilation unit that extracts stale indoor air while simultaneously drawing in fresh outdoor air. Inside the unit, a heat- and moisture-exchange core transfers up to 60-80 % of the heat (and some humidity) from the outgoing air stream to the incoming one. In winter this means the fresh air is pre-warmed, reducing the load on your heating system; in summer it can help keep incoming air cooler and drier, easing the burden on air-conditioning. The result is continuous fresh air with minimal energy loss.
Why are ERVs particularly beneficial for homes and businesses in Bristol?
Bristol’s climate is relatively mild but humid, and many local properties have been upgraded with better insulation and tighter building envelopes. While this saves energy, it can also trap excess moisture and pollutants indoors. An ERV solves this by supplying balanced, filtered ventilation while recovering most of the heat that would otherwise be lost through open windows or extractor fans. This helps prevent condensation, mould growth and indoor-air irritants—common issues in Bristol’s damp maritime environment—without sacrificing energy efficiency.
Can an ERV be added to my existing heating and air-conditioning system?
Yes. Most ERVs are designed to integrate with conventional ducted HVAC systems or to operate as stand-alone units with their own dedicated ductwork. A qualified installer will assess your property’s layout, calculate airflow needs and decide whether the ERV should be tied into the supply and return ducts of your current system or run on separate ducts. Controls can be linked to your thermostat or building-management system so the ERV runs in coordination with heating and cooling cycles.
How much energy and money can I expect to save with an ERV?
Actual savings vary with building size, insulation levels and occupancy, but studies by BRE and EST show that ERVs can reduce ventilation-related heat losses by 30–50 % compared with conventional extractor fans. For a typical three-bedroom Bristol home, that translates to annual heating-cost reductions of £90–£160 and carbon savings of 300–500 kg CO₂. Commercial sites often achieve even larger absolute savings and faster paybacks—often within three to seven years—especially when air-conditioning costs are factored in.
What routine maintenance does an ERV require?
1. Filters: Replace or clean the intake and exhaust filters every 3–6 months, more often if you live near busy roads or have pets. 2. Core: The heat-exchange core should be inspected yearly and washed or vacuumed as recommended by the manufacturer. 3. Condensate drain: Check that the condensate line is clear to prevent moisture backup. 4. Fans and seals: A technician should inspect fan bearings, belts (if any) and door seals annually to maintain airtightness and efficiency. Regular upkeep keeps the system quiet, efficient and hygienic.
Do I need planning permission or have to meet special regulations when installing an ERV in Bristol?
Most domestic ERV installations fall under ‘permitted development’ and do not require specific planning permission, provided external vents are unobtrusive. However, the system must comply with Building Regulations Part F (ventilation) and Part L (energy efficiency). Installers should provide commissioning paperwork showing airflow rates and heat-recovery efficiency. For commercial premises, additional requirements under the Non-Domestic Building Services Compliance Guide may apply. Always use an installer familiar with these standards and, where relevant, microgeneration certification (MCS) and local authority guidance.