Whole-house Ventilators
Whole-house Ventilators | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Decatur
Breathe easier in Decatur with HEP’s whole-house ventilators, the smarter way to pair heating and air conditioning with continuous fresh-air circulation. Our technicians integrate high-efficiency ventilators directly into your HVAC system, sweeping out stale, contaminated indoor air while balancing humidity and temperature in every room. From pet dander and cooking odors to invisible pollutants, we target the culprits that make homes feel stuffy and uncomfortable—so you get crisp, clean air without sacrificing energy savings.
HEP’s commitment to superior ventilation and air quality means we don’t just install equipment; we customize solutions. After a thorough indoor-air audit, we recommend the right mix of filtration, duct sealing, and smart controls to fit your lifestyle and budget, then back it with 24/7 local support. Enjoy quieter operation, lower utility bills, and the confidence that your family is inhaling the healthiest air Decatur has to offer—all with one seamless upgrade.
FAQs
Why does Decatur’s climate make whole-house ventilation so important?
Decatur experiences hot, humid summers and relatively mild, damp winters. These conditions can trap moisture and pollutants indoors when the home is sealed for air-conditioning or heating. A whole-house ventilator continuously exchanges stale indoor air with fresh, filtered outdoor air, helping control humidity, reduce mold growth, and dilute allergens and airborne contaminants year-round.
How does a whole-house ventilator differ from simply opening windows?
Opening windows offers uncontrolled ventilation—the rate of airflow depends on wind, temperature, and outdoor air quality. A whole-house ventilator uses balanced fans and heat- or energy-recovery cores to deliver a consistent, measured airflow regardless of weather. The incoming air is filtered and, in most models, pre-conditioned, so you gain fresh air without sacrificing comfort, security, or energy efficiency.
Will installing a ventilator increase my heating and cooling bills?
Modern heat-recovery ventilators (HRVs) and energy-recovery ventilators (ERVs) are designed to minimize energy loss. In winter, the outgoing warm air transfers much of its heat to the incoming fresh air; in summer, the process reverses to remove heat (and, in ERVs, some humidity). Typically, homeowners in Decatur see only a 2–5 % change in HVAC energy use, often offset by better indoor comfort and lower humidity-related cooling loads.
Which type of system—HRV or ERV—is better for homes in Decatur?
Decatur’s mixed-humid climate leans slightly toward ERVs because they transfer both heat and moisture between the air streams, keeping excess summer humidity out while retaining winter moisture. However, homes with specific humidity issues or very tight construction may benefit from HRVs instead. A professional assessment of your home’s insulation levels, occupancy, and indoor humidity targets will determine the best choice.
How is a whole-house ventilator installed and integrated with my existing HVAC system?
Our technicians connect the ventilator’s dedicated ductwork to your return air plenum or design a separate supply/return loop, depending on layout. The unit’s controls can be tied into your thermostat or a standalone timer/humidity sensor. Installation usually takes one day, with minimal disruption. We balance airflow afterward to ensure the system meets ASHRAE ventilation standards without pressurizing or depressurizing the home.
What maintenance does a whole-house ventilator require?
Maintenance is straightforward: replace or clean the unit’s filters every 3–6 months (more often during pollen season), vacuum the core surface annually, ensure exterior intake/exhaust hoods are clear of debris, and have the fan motors and heat-exchange core inspected by an HVAC professional once a year. Regular upkeep keeps airflow steady, preserves energy efficiency, and extends equipment life.