Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV) & Air Exchange Systems FAQ
There are some commonly asked questions about the installation, maintenance and operation of home ventilation systems. If you have others, please contact us and we’ll be happy to answer them.
- Why is proper ventilation in my home so important?
- How is a Heat Recovery Ventilation System different from a regular air exchanger?
- Can a HRV system be installed in an older home?
- How do I maintain my ventilation system once it’s installed?
- How do I adjust the HRV system settings?
- Will a HRV work with all heating systems?
- Are there health benefits to installing a HRV system?
- Does the same air get recycled?
- How much does it cost to install a HRV system?
Why is proper ventilation in my home so important?
- Controlling moisture levels in your home – Moisture comes from cooking, bathing and breathing. Too much moisture may not only cause condensation which can damage the structure of your home but also provides a breeding ground for mould, mildew & bacteria.
- Ridding your home of pollutants and Contaminants –construction materials used in new homes and furniture as well as regular household products may release toxic fumes and gases that contribute to poor indoor air quality and possible health issues.
How is a Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV) System different from a regular air exchanger?
Both air exchange and HRV systems move old, stale air out of your home and draw fresh air in. The difference is that an air exchanger expels heat – as well as your money!
A HRV system transfers (recovers) as much as 80% of the heat energy from the out-going air to the clean fresh air coming in. Good for the environment and for your wallet.
Can a HRV system be installed in an older home?
Yes. Clean Air Solutions will install a ventilation system that is custom fit for your home.
How do I maintain my ventilation system once it’s installed?
Regular Maintenance of your HRV system is required to keep it working properly. In fact an improperly serviced HRV system may not only contaminate the incoming air but also reduce the transfer of heat energy from 80% to as low as 20%.
What are the recommended HRV system settings?
Spring | Mid-June
Turn your wall control to a high setting (above 70)
Fall | Mid-October
Turn your wall control back to its regular setting (usually 45)
Every 3 Months
Remove & Clean Filters
Clean Exterior Vents
Annually
Book a 10 Point Service Plan appointment with Clean Air Solutions
Will a HRV system work with all heating systems?
Yes. It is independent of the heating system in the house.
Are there health benefits to installing a HRV system?
According to Health Canada, 1 in 4 Canadians have reported health problems linked to poor indoor air quality. Indoor pollutants can contribute to health issues such as allergies, headaches, fatigue, asthma and other respiratory conditions. Removing contaminated air from your home and bringing in fresh air can alleviate these symptoms.
Does the same air get recycled?
No. There are two vents: one draws the warm stale and polluted air from the living areas of your home through the HRV system to be released outside. The second draws a continuous stream of cool fresh air in through the system to be distributed throughout your home. The ducts run side by side and only the heat energy is transferred from one to the other.
How much does it cost to install a HRV system?
The cost to install a HRV will vary depending on the size of the home, whether it’s newly constructed or requires retrofitting, the complexity of the installation, etc.
Steve Morey of Clean Air Solutions will visit your home and provide you with an estimate, at no cost to you. Contact us to arrange an appointment.