Whole-home ERV/HRV
Whole-home ERV/HRV | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Sharps Chapel
Imagine breathing mountain-fresh air without ever cracking a window. HEP’s whole-home ERV/HRV systems seamlessly replace stale indoor air with filtered, conditioned outdoor air, balancing humidity and recovering energy that would otherwise be lost. The result is a cozier house in every Sharps Chapel season—no drafts, no hot or cold spots, just steady comfort that costs less to maintain.
Beyond comfort, these smart ventilators actively sweep away pollutants, allergens, and lingering odors that standard HVAC units simply recirculate. Pairing them with HEP’s precision heating and cooling delivers a quiet, low-maintenance solution that protects your family’s health as much as your home’s structure. It’s the simplest way to elevate your ventilation and air quality while enjoying the peace of mind that comes with a local team on call 24/7.
FAQs
What is a whole-home ERV/HRV system and how does it improve indoor air quality?
An Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) or Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) is a dedicated ventilation unit that continuously exhausts stale indoor air while bringing in fresh outdoor air. Inside the core of the unit, heat (and, in the case of an ERV, moisture) is transferred from the outgoing air stream to the incoming one. You get a constant supply of filtered, tempered outside air without the big energy penalty of opening windows. This process dilutes indoor pollutants such as VOCs, pet dander, and excess humidity, creating a healthier, more comfortable living environment all year.
What’s the difference between an ERV and an HRV, and which is better for Sharps Chapel?
An HRV transfers heat only, while an ERV transfers both heat and moisture between the airstreams. In a mixed-humid climate such as Sharps Chapel’s (hot, muggy summers and cool winters), an ERV is generally preferred because it helps keep indoor humidity in check during summer and prevents over-drying in winter. However, homes with chronic moisture issues or those kept very cool in summer can still benefit from an HRV. A professional load calculation and indoor air quality assessment will determine the best fit for your specific home.
Can an ERV/HRV integrate with my existing heating and air-conditioning system?
Yes. Most whole-home ERV/HRV units tie into the return plenum of your forced-air furnace or heat pump system. They can operate in "stand-alone" mode with their own small ducts or share the main ductwork, depending on layout and budget. Control options range from simple dehumidistats to fully integrated smart thermostats. During installation, we verify airflow balance so the ventilator neither pressurizes nor depressurizes the house, protecting combustion appliances and ensuring peak HVAC efficiency.
How much maintenance does a whole-home ERV/HRV require?
Maintenance is straightforward: (1) Inspect and clean or replace the intake and exhaust filters every 3–6 months—more often if you have pets or live on a dusty road. (2) Rinse the core with mild soapy water (ERV) or vacuum/soak (HRV) once or twice a year. (3) Check exterior hoods for obstructions like leaves or bird nests. Our Comfort Club plan includes these tasks during regular HVAC tune-ups, so you don’t have to worry about forgetting.
Will adding an ERV/HRV lower my energy bills?
Compared with opening windows or using bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans alone, an ERV/HRV can cut ventilation-related heating and cooling losses by 50–70 %. You’ll also run your HVAC equipment less because the incoming air is pre-conditioned. While the ventilator itself uses a small amount of electricity (comparable to a 60-watt bulb on low speed), many Sharps Chapel homeowners see overall utility savings, especially during peak summer and winter months, along with improved comfort and air quality.
How long does installation take and are permits required in Sharps Chapel?
A typical retrofit ERV/HRV installation takes one day for most homes and up to two days if new duct runs or attic work are needed. For new-construction projects, we coordinate with your builder to install the unit during the HVAC rough-in phase. Union County currently requires a mechanical permit and final inspection for ventilator installations that tie into existing ductwork; we handle all permitting and inspection scheduling. Before we leave, our technicians commission the system, verify airflow balance, and show you how to operate and maintain your new ERV/HRV.