- HEP Heat and Air
- Energy-recovery Ventilator

Energy-recovery Ventilator
Energy-recovery Ventilator | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Sale Creek
Breathe easier in Sale Creek with HEP’s Energy-Recovery Ventilator (ERV) heating and air conditioning solutions. Our ERVs quietly exchange stale indoor air with a steady stream of fresh, filtered outdoor air while capturing up to 80% of the heat or cooling you’ve already paid for. The result is year-round comfort that feels crisp, not costly—perfect for homes battling Tennessee’s humidity, pollen, and ever-changing temperatures.
By pairing advanced ERV technology with precision HVAC design, we balance moisture, remove odors, and trap allergens to elevate your home’s ventilation and air quality without forcing your system to run overtime. Every installation is custom-tailored by local, NATE-certified technicians who know how to maximize efficiency, protect your equipment, and keep utility bills in check.
Ready to feel the difference fresh air can make? Call the hometown experts at HEP for a free in-home assessment, quick installation, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee backed by decades of service right here in Sale Creek.
FAQs
What is an Energy-Recovery Ventilator (ERV) and how does it improve indoor air quality in Sale Creek homes?
An ERV is a mechanical ventilation device that exchanges stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air while transferring heat and moisture between the two airstreams. In Sale Creek’s humid subtropical climate, this process removes excess indoor pollutants—such as VOCs, odors, and carbon dioxide—without sacrificing comfort. By moderating both temperature and humidity, an ERV keeps indoor air fresher and healthier than simple exhaust-only ventilation systems.
How does an ERV lower heating and cooling costs for my HVAC system?
When conditioned indoor air is exhausted, traditional ventilation systems waste the energy used to heat or cool it. An ERV captures up to 70-80 % of that energy, using a heat- and moisture-exchange core to precondition incoming air. In winter, outgoing warm air preheats and humidifies fresh air; in summer, outgoing cool, dry air precools and dehumidifies fresh air. Your furnace, heat pump, or air conditioner therefore runs less often, which can reduce annual energy bills by 10-25 % depending on usage and home tightness.
Is an ERV better than an HRV (heat-recovery ventilator) for the Sale Creek area?
Because Sale Creek experiences muggy summers and mild, occasionally damp winters, managing indoor humidity is just as important as temperature control. An ERV transfers both sensible heat and latent moisture, helping keep humidity levels in the recommended 40-60 % range year-round. An HRV only exchanges heat, so it can bring excessive moisture indoors during summer. Therefore, most HVAC professionals recommend ERVs over HRVs for Tennessee’s climate.
Can an ERV be integrated with my existing HVAC system, or will I need major ductwork changes?
In most homes, an ERV connects to the return-air plenum of the existing forced-air system or uses dedicated small-diameter ducts. Because ERVs move relatively low volumes of air (50-200 CFM), they do not require large trunk lines. During an on-site assessment, our technicians measure airflow needs, verify available space, and design the simplest route. Installations typically take one day and rarely require extensive remodeling.
What kind of maintenance does an ERV require and how often?
1) Filters: Each unit has two filters that capture dust and allergens. Rinse or replace them every 3–6 months, similar to HVAC filters. 2) Core cleaning: The enthalpy core should be removed and vacuumed or rinsed annually to maintain high heat-recovery efficiency. 3) Vent and drain inspection: Outdoor intake/exhaust hoods need clearing of leaves or debris, and any condensate drains should be flushed yearly. Regular service keeps airflow balanced and prevents energy loss; our maintenance plan includes these checks during a routine HVAC tune-up.
How much does an ERV system cost to install in Sale Creek, and are there incentives available?
For most single-family homes, installed ERV systems range from $2,200 to $4,000, depending on capacity, ducting complexity, and control options. Energy-efficient ventilation often qualifies for federal tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act (30 % of equipment cost, up to $600). Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) occasionally offers rebates for ventilation improvements; we’ll help you file the paperwork and verify current programs to offset upfront costs.