Heat Recovery Ventilators
Heat Recovery Ventilators | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Halls
When crisp Halls mornings turn into humid afternoons, HEP’s heat recovery ventilators quietly exchange stale indoor air for fresh, filtered air without wasting the energy you’ve already paid to heat or cool. By capturing up to 90 % of the heat that would normally escape, these smart systems help your furnace and air conditioner work less, lower utility bills, and keep every room supplied with oxygen-rich air that feels as good as it is for you.
Pair a new HRV with HEP’s precision-tuned HVAC equipment and you’ll notice the difference in mere hours—fewer lingering odors, balanced humidity, and a healthier space for kids, pets, and houseplants alike. Homeowners across Halls trust our technicians because we design, install, and maintain comprehensive solutions focused on one thing: exceptional ventilation and air quality that lets you breathe easy all year long.
FAQs
What exactly is a Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) and how does it work?
A heat recovery ventilator is a mechanical ventilation device that continually exhausts stale indoor air while bringing in fresh outdoor air. Inside the unit, a heat-exchange core transfers up to 80–90 % of the heat (or cooling) from the outgoing airstream to the incoming one without actually mixing the two airflows. In winter this means the fresh air is pre-warmed before it enters your ducts; in summer it is pre-cooled. The result is a constant supply of filtered outdoor air, improved indoor air quality, and far less energy loss compared with opening windows.
Why is an HRV important for homes and businesses in Halls?
Halls experiences humid summers and cool winters, so buildings are typically sealed tightly to conserve energy. While this reduces drafts, it also traps moisture, odours, and airborne pollutants indoors. An HRV provides the controlled ventilation needed to remove excess humidity, carbon dioxide, and allergens while recovering most of the energy you’ve already paid to condition. This keeps indoor air fresher and healthier without causing large swings in temperature or utility bills.
Can installing an HRV lower my heating and cooling costs?
Yes. Because the HRV transfers heat (or cooling) energy between outgoing and incoming air, your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard to reach the thermostat set-point. Studies show that in a climate like Halls, an HRV can cut ventilation-related energy losses by 50-70 %, which often translates to overall heating and cooling savings of 10–15 %. Exact savings depend on house size, insulation levels, and how often you currently open windows for fresh air.
How loud are modern HRV units and where are they installed?
Today’s HRVs are engineered with insulated cabinets, variable-speed ECM fans, and vibration-damping mounts. When installed correctly, the sound level is comparable to a quiet refrigerator—typically 25–35 dB in living areas. The main unit is usually mounted in a utility room, basement, or attic and connected to dedicated small-diameter duct runs or tied into existing HVAC ductwork. Only discreet supply and exhaust grilles are visible inside the rooms.
What routine maintenance does an HRV require?
Maintenance is straightforward: (1) Clean or replace the intake and exhaust filters every 3–6 months to keep airflow unobstructed. (2) Inspect and clean the core annually; most cores slide out and can be rinsed with mild soap and water. (3) Check the condensate drain to ensure it is clear, especially during the humid season. (4) Have a qualified technician balance the airflow and inspect the fans and controls every 2–3 years. Regular care maximises efficiency and prolongs equipment life.
Can an HRV be retrofitted into an existing property, or is it only for new builds?
An HRV can be added to most existing homes and light-commercial buildings in Halls. Installers can run small, flexible ducts through closets, dropped ceilings, or attic spaces, or they can connect the HRV to the return side of your current HVAC ducts with minimal disruption. Electrical requirements are similar to a bathroom fan. Although planning is a bit simpler during new construction, retrofitting is common and usually completed within one to two days.