Energy-recovery Ventilators
Energy-recovery Ventilators | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Sunbright
Imagine stepping into your Sunbright home and feeling an instant rush of fresh, temperature-balanced air—no drafts, no stuffiness, just pure comfort. HEP’s Energy-Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) make that sensation an everyday reality by exchanging stale indoor air with filtered outdoor air while reclaiming up to 80 % of the heat or cool you’ve already paid for. The result is lower utility bills, a lighter environmental footprint, and indoor spaces that smell and feel as vibrant as the Tennessee mornings outside your window.
From excess humidity in summer to lingering cooking odors in winter, our ERVs tackle the hidden culprits that undermine ventilation and air quality year-round. Advanced filtration captures allergens and airborne contaminants, while smart controls adjust airflow automatically—so you spend less time tweaking thermostats and more time enjoying cleaner, healthier living. Let HEP elevate your comfort and well-being with technology that pays you back every time you breathe.
FAQs
What is an Energy-Recovery Ventilator (ERV) and how does it work?
An ERV is a balanced ventilation appliance that exhausts stale indoor air while simultaneously bringing in an equal amount of fresh outdoor air. Inside the unit is a heat- and moisture-transfer core. In winter, the core captures heat and some humidity from the outgoing air stream and transfers it to the incoming cold, dry air. In summer, the process reverses—heat and humidity from the incoming hot air are transferred to the cooler exhaust air before the fresh air enters your ducts. This pre-conditioning means your heating and cooling equipment works far less to keep the home comfortable, while you still get a constant supply of filtered outdoor air.
How does an ERV improve indoor air quality and comfort in Sunbright’s climate?
Sunbright experiences warm, humid summers and cool winters. An ERV continuously dilutes indoor pollutants such as VOCs, pet dander, and excess CO₂ with fresh outdoor air, helping occupants breathe easier and reducing odors. Because it also exchanges moisture, the unit adds beneficial humidity during dry winter months and removes excess humidity in the summer. The result is steadier indoor humidity levels (ideally 40–60 %), fewer allergy triggers, and more consistent temperatures throughout the house.
What energy savings can I expect when I add an ERV to my existing HVAC system?
Traditional exhaust-only ventilation fans throw conditioned air straight outside, forcing your furnace or air conditioner to make up the difference. An ERV captures 60–80 % of that lost energy, cutting the ventilation load dramatically. Studies show households can save 30–50 % on the energy normally wasted by mechanical ventilation alone. Because the HVAC equipment runs fewer, shorter cycles, you may also see lower maintenance costs and longer system life. In many parts of Tennessee, utility rebates or tax incentives can offset a portion of the installation cost.
Can an ERV help manage humidity during Sunbright’s muggy summers and dry winters?
Yes. In cooling season, the ERV core transfers moisture from incoming air to the exhaust stream, reducing the latent (humidity) load that reaches your air conditioner. This helps eliminate that sticky feeling, reduces the chance of mold growth, and may allow you to set the thermostat a couple of degrees higher without losing comfort. In heating season, the core conserves some of the moisture leaving the house, preventing overly dry air that can cause static electricity, cracked woodwork, and dry skin.
What routine maintenance does an ERV require?
ERVs are low-maintenance but not maintenance-free. 1) Filters: Most units have two filters that capture dust and pollen before they enter the core—vacuum or replace them every 3–6 months. 2) Core: Once a year, remove the heat-exchange core and rinse it gently with a mild soap solution; let it air-dry completely before reinstalling. 3) Vents: Make sure exterior intake and exhaust hoods remain clear of leaves, snow, or insect nests. 4) Drain: If your model has a condensate drain, inspect and flush it to avoid clogs. Regular upkeep ensures maximum energy recovery and clean airflow.
Do I need professional installation, and how do I choose the right-sized ERV for my home?
Because an ERV ties into your existing supply and return ductwork and must be balanced for correct airflow, professional installation is highly recommended. A certified HVAC technician will: 1) perform a room-by-room ventilation calculation based on square footage, occupancy, and local building codes; 2) recommend an ERV with the proper cubic-feet-per-minute (CFM) rating—most homes in the Sunbright area need 80–150 CFM; 3) ensure the unit is mounted where it’s accessible for maintenance but protected from freezing; and 4) set up controls that allow you to boost ventilation during gatherings or high-humidity events. This sizing and balancing step is crucial for optimum efficiency, quiet operation, and IAQ performance.