Energy-recovery Ventilators
Energy-recovery Ventilators | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Loudon
Imagine breathing fresh, outdoor-quality air inside your Loudon home while keeping every bit of comfort you’ve already paid to heat or cool. HEP’s energy-recovery ventilators capture the thermal energy from outgoing air and transfer it to the incoming stream, delivering a steady supply of clean, humidity-balanced air without spiking your utility bills. Goodbye stale odors, lingering allergens, and stuffy rooms—hello healthier lungs and a greener wallet.
From precision design to seamless installation and 24/7 support, our certified technicians weave ERVs into your existing HVAC setup or new build for maximum efficiency and peace of mind. The result is a perfectly tuned balance of comfort, efficiency, ventilation and air quality that only a hometown team like HEP can provide. Ready to upgrade the way Loudon breathes? We’re just a phone call away.
FAQs
What is an Energy-Recovery Ventilator (ERV) and how does it work?
An ERV is a mechanical ventilation device that exhausts stale indoor air while simultaneously bringing in fresh outdoor air. Inside the unit, the outgoing and incoming air streams pass through a heat- and moisture-transfer core. In winter, heat and humidity from the outgoing air pre-warm and pre-humidify the incoming air; in summer, the process is reversed, so cooler, drier indoor air tempers the hot, humid outdoor air. This energy exchange reduces the load on your HVAC system while ensuring a continuous supply of fresh air.
Why are ERVs especially beneficial for homes and businesses in Loudon?
Loudon experiences humid summers, cold winters, and increasingly airtight building codes. These conditions make it challenging to maintain healthy indoor air without losing conditioned energy. An ERV addresses both issues: it controls humidity year-round, expels airborne pollutants, and recovers up to 70–80 % of the heating or cooling energy that would otherwise be lost through traditional exhaust fans. The result is lower utility bills and better indoor comfort tailored to Loudon’s seasonal climate.
How does an ERV improve indoor air quality (IAQ) and reduce energy costs?
By continuously exchanging indoor and outdoor air, an ERV dilutes concentrations of VOCs, carbon dioxide, allergens, and excess moisture. Because the heat-exchange core recovers energy, your HVAC equipment doesn’t have to work as hard to condition the incoming air. Studies show that households can save 10–25 % on heating and cooling expenses compared with standard ventilation strategies, all while maintaining healthier IAQ.
Can an ERV be added to my existing HVAC system, or do I need a full replacement?
In most cases, an ERV can be retrofitted into your current forced-air heating and cooling system without replacing the furnace or air conditioner. The unit is typically ducted to the return plenum or installed as a dedicated ventilation system with its own ductwork. A qualified HVAC technician will assess airflow requirements, available space, and electrical needs to recommend the best integration method for your Loudon property.
What maintenance does an ERV require, and how often?
Routine upkeep is straightforward: (1) Inspect and clean or replace the intake and exhaust filters every 3–4 months; (2) Vacuum the core and internal compartments every 6–12 months; (3) Check the condensate drain for clogs; (4) Verify fan operation and clean the grilles annually. Loudon’s pollen and humidity levels can shorten filter life, so more frequent checks during peak seasons may be necessary. Professional service once a year ensures optimal performance and warranty compliance.
How do I determine the right ERV size and what is the installation timeline?
Sizing is based on your home’s square footage, number of occupants, and local ventilation codes (typically 0.35 air changes per hour or 15 cfm per person). A load calculation performed by a licensed HVAC contractor will establish the required airflow rate (CFM). Most residential ERVs range from 70 CFM to 200 CFM. Once ordered, installation usually takes one day for straightforward retrofits and up to two days if new ductwork or electrical circuits are needed. After setup, technicians will balance the system to ensure proper airflow.