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Technically Speaking: Whole-House Mechanical Ventilation
posted at 2016-01-19
This article was originally posted by Pro Trade Craft and has been lightly edited.
Balanced ventilation systems are a combination of exhaust and supply methods providing approximately equal indoor exhaust and outdoor supply air flows (e.g. an exhaust fan combined with a supply fan or passive inlet vents).
A balanced system may include a heat recovery ventilator (HRV) or an energy recovery ventilator (ERV).
Pros/cons/cost:
- An HRV transfers a portion of the heat between the exhaust air and the fresh air; an ERV transfers heat and moisture
- An HRV or ERV provides the benefits, but limits the drawbacks, of supply-only and exhaust-only methods
- Generally, an HRV is recommended for dry, cold climates and an ERV is recommended for moist, warm climates
- Highest installed cost for HRV or ERV due to equipment and additional ducting
There are pros and cons to each type of mechanical ventilation but one type may work better for your home than the other two. By consulting a BPI certified professional, you can better your home's air quality with the right mechanical ventilation system.
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