Heat-recovery Ventilators
Heat-recovery Ventilators | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Signal Mountain
Nestled atop Signal Mountain, your home deserves the same fresh, invigorating air that sweeps across its scenic ridges. HEP’s heat-recovery ventilators quietly pull in crisp outdoor air, expel stale indoor air, and reclaim up to 90 % of the heat energy you’ve already paid for—keeping rooms comfortable without driving up utility bills. From summer humidity to winter chills, our expertly balanced systems ensure every breath feels like you’ve just opened the window to nature’s best, minus the pollen and temperature swings.
Because true comfort is more than a thermostat setting, we pair HRVs with high-efficiency heating, cooling, and filtration solutions that are custom-fit to Signal Mountain homes. The result is noticeably cleaner air, fewer allergens, and lower energy costs—all delivered by technicians who treat your space with mountain-top care. Discover how HEP can elevate your ventilation and air quality today, and start breathing the difference.
FAQs
What is a heat-recovery ventilator (HRV) and how does it work?
An HRV is a mechanical ventilation device that exhausts stale indoor air while simultaneously bringing in fresh outdoor air. Inside the unit, the two airstreams pass through a heat exchanger. In winter, the outgoing warm air transfers up to 70–90 % of its heat to the incoming cold air; in summer, the process reverses, helping to keep cooled air inside. The two airstreams never mix, so contaminants leave the house while tempered fresh air enters, improving comfort and energy efficiency at the same time.
Why are HRVs especially beneficial for homes in Signal Mountain?
Signal Mountain experiences cool, damp winters and hot, humid summers. Modern, tightly sealed homes in the area trap moisture, allergens, and pollutants, which can lead to mold growth and poor indoor air quality. An HRV continuously exchanges air, reducing excess humidity in winter without losing warmth and lowering indoor pollutant levels year-round. It also lessens the load on heating and cooling equipment, which can translate into lower utility bills given our region’s large temperature swings.
Will an HRV improve my indoor air quality and energy savings?
Yes. By replacing stale indoor air with filtered outdoor air up to eight times per day, HRVs dilute indoor contaminants such as VOCs, pet dander, and cooking odors. Because the heat exchanger recovers most of the energy that would otherwise be lost through open windows or exhaust fans, homeowners typically see a 10–20 % reduction in heating and cooling costs compared with non-recovery ventilation. Many models include MERV-rated filters that capture fine particles, further boosting air quality.
Can an HRV be added to my existing HVAC system, or do I need a complete replacement?
In most cases an HRV can be retrofitted into an existing forced-air HVAC system. The unit is installed in the mechanical room or attic and connected to dedicated supply and return ductwork that ties into your current air handler or furnace plenum. If you heat with ductless systems, a stand-alone HRV with its own small duct network can be installed. A professional assessment will determine the best integration method, but a complete HVAC replacement is rarely necessary.
How much maintenance does an HRV require?
Regular upkeep is simple but important. Filters should be inspected every 2–3 months and cleaned or replaced as needed—more often during pollen season in Signal Mountain. The heat-exchange core, condensate drain, and fans should be cleaned annually to maintain efficiency and air quality. Many homeowners schedule a yearly service visit, often bundled with HVAC tune-ups, to ensure the unit operates at peak performance.
What size HRV do I need and what does installation involve?
Sizing is based on your home’s square footage and the number of occupants, following ASHRAE 62.2 ventilation guidelines (typically 0.35 air changes per hour or about 7.5 cfm per person). For example, a 2,400 sq ft home with four occupants usually requires an HRV delivering roughly 120–150 cfm. Installation generally takes one day for new construction and 1–2 days for retrofits, including running ducts, wiring controls, and balancing airflow. Costs in Signal Mountain range from $2,800 to $4,500 installed, depending on capacity, controls, and duct complexity; federal or local energy-efficiency incentives can offset part of the investment.