Performance Heat Recovery

Performance Heat Recovery Ventilators for Controlled Fresh Air

Performance heat recovery ventilators exchange stale indoor air with outdoor air while recovering sensible heat between separate air streams. They suit homes that need controlled ventilation with less heat loss than a comparable exhaust-only arrangement.

An HRV does not actively transfer moisture in the same way as an ERV. In Toronto winters, the choice should account for indoor humidity as well as heat recovery, because ventilation can also dry the home.

Match the ventilation system to the building

Compare the air requirement, moisture conditions and available installation space. These factors determine a more useful shortlist than choosing the highest maximum airflow.

Compare ratings at useful operating conditions

The HRVXXLHB, HRVXXSVU and other listed models differ in capacity and configuration. Use exact-model performance data at the intended airflow rather than transferring one unit's maximum recovery figure across the range.

Recovery efficiency does not mean the unit provides free heating or eliminates the furnace load. Fans use electricity, and frost management affects cold-weather operation. Review the selected model's controls and operating guidance for the installation.

Balance the installed airflows

Plan outdoor intake and exhaust locations, insulated ducts, condensate drainage and access for filters and the heat-exchange core. A restrictive or poorly routed duct system can prevent the unit from delivering its intended airflow.

For a Toronto or GTA replacement, measure and balance supply and exhaust after installation even when existing ducts are retained. Include control integration, duct repairs and drain work in the quote. An unbalanced installation can change building pressure and fail to deliver the ventilation expected in occupied rooms.

Compare the entire installation proposal

Bring the old model details and information about condensation, dryness or stale rooms. Those observations help identify whether replacement alone will address the problem.

Choose the HRV around the building's ventilation and moisture needs, then commission it as a balanced system. Compare model-specific installation scopes before selecting a replacement.