Energy-recovery Ventilators
Energy-recovery Ventilators | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Chattanooga
In Chattanooga’s humid summers and brisk winters, HEP’s high-efficiency Energy-Recovery Ventilators capture conditioned indoor air while pulling in a steady stream of fresh outdoor oxygen. By reclaiming up to 80 % of the temperature and humidity that would normally escape, our ERVs keep your home comfortable, slash energy bills, and elevate ventilation and air quality without overworking your HVAC system.
Backed by decades of local expertise, our certified technicians design, install, and maintain ERV solutions that integrate seamlessly with any heating and cooling setup, delivering balanced airflow and purified, pollen-free breathing space to every room. Schedule a no-pressure consultation today and discover why Chattanooga homeowners trust HEP for sustainable comfort that feels as good as it breathes.
FAQs
What is an energy-recovery ventilator (ERV) and how does it improve indoor air quality?
An ERV is a mechanical ventilation device that exhausts stale indoor air while bringing in an equal amount of fresh, filtered outdoor air. Inside the core, heat and moisture are transferred between the two air streams, so incoming air is pre-conditioned before it enters your ducts. The result is continuous ventilation without the large energy penalty of opening windows. By diluting pollutants like VOCs, cooking odors, and excess CO₂, an ERV greatly improves indoor air quality, making homes more comfortable and healthier to live in.
How does an ERV differ from a heat-recovery ventilator (HRV), and which is better for Chattanooga’s humid climate?
Both ERVs and HRVs transfer sensible heat between exhaust and supply air, but only ERVs also transfer moisture. In Chattanooga, summers are hot and humid while winters are relatively mild. An ERV helps keep indoor humidity levels in check by moving some moisture out with the exhaust air in summer and retaining beneficial moisture in winter. HRVs lack this humidity control, so they can add unwanted moisture during our muggy months. For most homes and light-commercial buildings in the Tennessee Valley, an ERV is the preferred choice.
Will installing an ERV reduce my heating and cooling costs?
Yes. Because the ERV core recovers up to 70-80 % of the heat (and in summer, some of the cooling) from the outgoing air, your HVAC system does not have to work as hard to condition the incoming air. Energy savings vary with home tightness, unit efficiency, and how often the system runs, but Chattanooga homeowners typically see annual HVAC energy reductions of 5-15 %. In well-sealed or newly built homes, savings can be even higher because natural infiltration is low and the ERV provides the required fresh air with minimal losses.
Can an ERV be integrated with my existing HVAC system, and what is the installation process like?
Absolutely. Most ERVs are designed to tie into standard forced-air ductwork. A qualified technician will: 1. Perform a ventilation load calculation to size the ERV (usually 0.35 air changes per hour or ASHRAE 62.2 compliance). 2. Select a location near the air handler, usually in an attic, crawl space, or mechanical closet. 3. Run dedicated intake and exhaust ducts to the outdoors, install the ERV unit, and connect the supply and return collars to your main duct trunk. 4. Wire a control—either standalone, tied into your smart thermostat, or linked to a building automation system. Most residential installations take one day, cause minimal disruption, and require only small roof or wall penetrations for the vent hoods.
How often does an ERV need maintenance, and what does routine service involve?
ERVs are low-maintenance devices, but regular care keeps them efficient: • Filters: Replace or wash (depending on model) every 3-6 months, more often during high pollen season in Chattanooga. • Core cleaning: Remove the heat-exchange core annually and rinse with a mild soap solution; let it dry before reinstalling. • Vent hoods and screens: Check for leaves, insects, or lint blockages twice a year. • Fans and motors: During your spring or fall HVAC tune-up, a technician should inspect bearings, belts, and electrical connections. With proper maintenance, an ERV can provide 15-20 years of reliable service.
Are ERVs beneficial for allergy sufferers and homes with high indoor humidity?
Yes on both counts. The ERV’s incoming air passes through MERV-rated filters that capture pollen, dust, and other allergens common in the Chattanooga area. Continuous, balanced ventilation reduces indoor concentrations of mold spores and pet dander. Meanwhile, the moisture-transfer core helps control relative humidity, keeping it in the ideal 40-50 % range. Lower humidity discourages dust mites and mold growth, while higher winter humidity levels prevent dry skin and respiratory irritation. For families dealing with allergies, asthma, or musty odors, an ERV is one of the most effective add-ons to an HVAC system.