Energy-recovery Ventilators
Energy-recovery Ventilators | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Hixson
Breathe easier in Hixson with HEP’s cutting-edge energy-recovery ventilators—smart systems that capture the conditioned air you’ve already paid to heat or cool, then infuse it with a continuous supply of fresh outdoor air. By efficiently exchanging heat and humidity, these units keep indoor temperatures consistent while sweeping away pollutants, odors, and excess moisture that standard HVAC setups often recirculate. The result is healthier, more comfortable living spaces that cost less to maintain.
Whether you’re upgrading an older home or designing a new build, our technicians customize each installation to balance airflow, reduce energy waste, and meet today’s strict ventilation and air quality standards. Pair your ERV with our comprehensive HVAC maintenance plans and enjoy cleaner air, lower utility bills, and the peace of mind that comes from working with Hixson’s most trusted comfort specialists.
FAQs
What is an Energy-Recovery Ventilator (ERV) and how does it improve indoor air quality?
An ERV is a mechanical ventilation device that exhausts stale indoor air while simultaneously bringing in fresh outdoor air. Inside the unit, a heat- and moisture-exchange core transfers energy between the two airstreams, so incoming air is pre-conditioned (cooled and dehumidified in summer, warmed and humidified in winter). This constant exchange dilutes indoor pollutants such as VOCs, cooking odors, and excess humidity, giving you a steady supply of cleaner, healthier air without sacrificing energy efficiency.
Why are ERVs particularly beneficial for homes and businesses in Hixson’s climate?
Hixson experiences hot, humid summers and relatively mild winters. In summer, an ERV removes heat and moisture from incoming air, lightening the load on your air conditioner and helping control indoor humidity. During cooler months, it captures heat that would otherwise be lost, reducing your heating demand. Because ERVs address both temperature and humidity, they are ideal for the Tennessee Valley’s mixed-humidity climate, delivering year-round comfort and lower utility costs.
Can an ERV be added to my existing HVAC system, or do I need a full replacement?
In most cases, an ERV can be integrated into your current forced-air HVAC system. Our technicians tap into the supply and return ductwork, add dedicated ventilation ducts if needed, and wire the ERV to operate in sync with the air handler or on its own timer. If your system lacks sufficient duct space or airflow, we can design a stand-alone ERV loop. A full HVAC replacement is rarely required unless your existing equipment is undersized or near the end of its life.
How much energy can I expect to save with an ERV?
Because an ERV recovers up to 70–80 percent of the energy contained in the exhaust air, it dramatically reduces the amount of conditioning your HVAC equipment must perform. Typical homeowners in the Hixson area see seasonal HVAC energy savings of 10–25 percent, depending on occupancy patterns and insulation levels. Commercial facilities with high ventilation requirements (schools, offices, salons, veterinary clinics) often achieve even higher savings. Over time, these reductions can offset a significant portion of the ERV’s purchase and installation cost.
What kind of maintenance does an ERV require?
ERV upkeep is simple but important. We recommend: • Cleaning or replacing the unit’s intake and exhaust filters every 3–6 months, or more often in dusty environments. • Inspecting and vacuuming the heat-exchange core annually to remove pollen, lint, and other debris. • Checking the condensate drain and cleaning the fan impellers during your regular HVAC tune-up. These tasks keep airflow steady and maintain high energy-recovery efficiency. Our maintenance plans include ERV service so you don’t have to worry about the details.
How long does installation take, and will it disrupt my daily routine?
A typical residential ERV installation in Hixson takes one day: a few hours for a pre-site evaluation and load calculation, and about 4–6 hours for mounting the unit, running ducts, and configuring controls. Commercial projects may span multiple days depending on building size and scheduling constraints. We coordinate with you to minimize downtime—most of the work occurs in the attic, crawlspace, or mechanical room, so household or business activities can continue with minimal interruption.