Definition
An energy recovery ventilator (ERV) is a balanced whole-house ventilation appliance that exchanges stale indoor air for filtered outdoor air through a core that transfers both heat and some water vapor between the two airstreams. That moisture transfer helps keep indoor humidity steadier than a heat recovery ventilator, which transfers heat only.
Also called: ERV, Energy recovery ventilation
Why it matters to you.
Tighter, newer or renovated Central Kentucky homes can trap stale air, odors and moisture, and ASHRAE Standard 62.2 sets residential ventilation rates. In humid summers an ERV brings in less outdoor moisture than unbalanced fresh air would, but it is not a dehumidifier, so homes with high humidity may still need dedicated dehumidification.
Practical guidance.
Homeowners can keep ERV filters clean and note stuffy rooms, lingering odors or persistent clamminess. Deciding whether a home needs mechanical ventilation, sizing it to ASHRAE 62.2 and balancing airflow should follow a technician's indoor air quality assessment.
About this definition
Written by the Feistritzer Heating & Air Conditioning team — family owned and operated in Danville since 1976, Kentucky HVAC license M02584. Definitions inform; a whole-system diagnosis in your home decides.