Energy-recovery Ventilators
Energy-recovery Ventilators | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | White Pine
Imagine breathing mountain-fresh air in every season without watching your energy bills climb. HEP’s energy-recovery ventilators quietly exchange stale indoor air with filtered outdoor air while capturing up to 90% of the heating or cooling you’ve already paid for. The result is a home in White Pine that feels consistently comfortable, smells cleaner, and supports healthier living—all through smart, sustainable technology focused on better ventilation and air quality.
Our local technicians integrate ERVs seamlessly with your existing HVAC system, balancing humidity, reducing allergens, and preventing mold growth. Whether you’re upgrading an older house or planning new construction, we tailor solutions that fit your space and budget, backed by responsive service you can trust. Breathe easier, save energy, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your home is protected by HEP’s expertise—call today to schedule your free assessment.
FAQs
What is an energy-recovery ventilator (ERV) and how does it work?
An ERV is a mechanical ventilation device that exchanges stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air while transferring heat and moisture between the two air streams. In winter it captures heat and humidity from outgoing air and transfers them to the incoming fresh air, reducing the load on your furnace. In summer it works in reverse—removing heat and excess moisture from incoming air before it enters your living spaces, which lightens the job of your air conditioner. The result is a continuous supply of filtered outdoor air without the big energy penalty of opening windows.
Why are ERVs especially beneficial in White Pine’s climate?
White Pine experiences cold, dry winters and warm, humid summers. Traditional sealed homes trap pollutants and moisture, leading to stuffy air, condensation, and potential mold growth. An ERV addresses these issues by delivering balanced ventilation year-round. In winter it pre-warms and humidifies incoming air so your heating system operates more efficiently and occupants feel more comfortable. In summer it precools and dehumidifies ventilation air, helping your AC maintain set temperatures without running longer. This dual-season performance makes ERVs one of the most cost-effective indoor-air-quality upgrades for our regional climate.
How much can an ERV save on heating and cooling costs?
Actual savings depend on home size, insulation levels, and occupant habits, but national field studies show ERVs recover 60-80 % of the energy normally lost through ventilation. For a typical 2,000-sq-ft home in White Pine, that can translate to 10-15 % lower annual heating costs and 5-10 % lower cooling costs—often $150–$300 per year. Because fresh-air needs are met without opening windows or running bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans continuously, comfort improves while utility bills drop. Many ERVs pay for themselves within 3-7 years when installed and balanced correctly.
Will an ERV improve indoor air quality, and how does it handle allergens and humidity?
Yes. ERVs remove stale air containing carbon dioxide, VOCs from paints and furniture, cooking odors, and excess moisture. The incoming fresh air passes through a high-efficiency filter that captures pollen, dust, and other outdoor allergens before distribution through your ductwork. By exchanging moisture between air streams, an ERV helps keep indoor relative humidity in the ideal 30-50 % range in winter (preventing dry skin and static shock) and below 60 % in summer (discouraging mold and dust mites). The steady airflow also evens out temperature differences between rooms, reducing cold or hot spots.
Can an ERV be added to my existing HVAC system, or is it only for new construction?
An ERV can be integrated into both existing and new HVAC systems. For retrofit projects, the unit is typically connected to the return-air plenum of your furnace or air handler, with dedicated duct runs to the outdoors. Our technicians perform a ventilation load calculation to size the ERV correctly and add balancing dampers to ensure the supply and exhaust airflow rates match. Because ERVs are compact—many wall- or ceiling-mounted models fit between joists—they’re practical even when mechanical room space is limited. New construction offers the chance to plan dedicated ducting from the outset, delivering the highest efficiency, but most homes can still be upgraded without major remodeling.
What maintenance does an ERV require and how often?
Routine upkeep is straightforward: • Inspect and replace or clean the intake and exhaust filters every 3-6 months, or more often if you have pets or live near construction. • Check the core (the heat-exchange wheel or plate) every 6-12 months for dust buildup and vacuum or wash it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. • Ensure exterior intake and exhaust hoods remain clear of leaves, snow, or insect nests. • Confirm the condensate drain (if equipped) is free-flowing during summer operation. • Schedule a professional airflow balance and fan motor inspection once a year when you service your HVAC system. Following these steps preserves efficiency, keeps air quality high, and extends the unit’s 15-20-year life expectancy.