Energy-recovery Ventilators
Energy-recovery Ventilators | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Greeneville
Feel the difference of mountain-fresh air without sacrificing comfort or efficiency. HEP’s energy-recovery ventilators seamlessly pair with your existing heating and air conditioning system, exchanging stale indoor air for crisp outdoor air while recycling up to 80 % of the temperature you’ve already paid for. The result is a Greeneville home that stays consistently comfortable, healthier, and kinder to your utility bills—no window-cracking drafts required.
Our ERVs scrub incoming air through high-grade filters, balance humidity, and whisper along so quietly you’ll barely notice them working. Certified HEP technicians size, install, and maintain each unit to optimize ventilation and air quality, helping reduce allergens, odors, and excess moisture all year long. Breathe easier, live better, and let the local experts handle the rest.
FAQs
What is an energy-recovery ventilator (ERV) and how does it improve indoor air quality in Greeneville homes?
An ERV is a mechanical ventilation device that exhausts stale indoor air while simultaneously bringing in fresh outdoor air. Inside the unit, a heat- and moisture-exchange core transfers energy between the two airstreams, so you retain most of the heating or cooling you’ve already paid for. In Greeneville, where homes are often sealed tightly for energy efficiency, an ERV helps dilute indoor pollutants such as cooking odors, pet dander, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) without creating a big utility-bill penalty.
How does an ERV help reduce heating and cooling costs in Greeneville’s climate?
Greeneville experiences humid summers and chilly winters. When an ERV exchanges air, it captures up to 70-80 % of the thermal energy and humidity from the outgoing air and transfers it to the incoming air. In winter, that means the incoming cold air is pre-warmed, so your furnace runs less. In summer, the incoming hot, humid air is pre-cooled and partially dehumidified, so your air conditioner works less. The result is lower energy consumption and steadier indoor comfort throughout the year.
Is an ERV suitable for older Greeneville homes that already have an HVAC system?
Yes. Most existing HVAC systems in Greeneville can be retrofitted with an ERV. A technician will evaluate your current ductwork, determine the optimal ERV size, and tie the unit into the supply and/or return plenum. If the existing ducts are undersized or leaky, minor upgrades may be recommended to ensure proper airflow and maximize efficiency. Even historic homes can benefit; an ERV can reduce condensation and help protect building materials from moisture damage.
What maintenance is required for an ERV, and how often should it be serviced?
Maintenance is straightforward. 1) Filters: Wash or replace the ERV’s filters every 3-6 months, or more often if you have pets or allergies. 2) Core: Inspect the energy-exchange core annually; many cores can be vacuumed or gently washed per manufacturer guidelines. 3) Vents and grilles: Keep outdoor intake and exhaust grilles clear of leaves, snow, and debris. 4) Professional checkup: Schedule a full system inspection each year with an HVAC professional to verify airflow, cleanliness, and control settings. Proper maintenance ensures high efficiency and healthy indoor air.
Will installing an ERV increase humidity inside my Greeneville home during the summer?
No. A true energy-recovery ventilator balances both heat and moisture. During Greeneville’s humid summers, the ERV transfers some of the moisture from the incoming hot air to the cooler exhaust air before it enters your living spaces. This process lowers the absolute humidity of the incoming fresh air, easing the load on your air conditioner and helping maintain comfortable indoor humidity levels (ideally 40-50 %).
How does professional ERV installation integrate with my current HVAC and ductwork?
A certified HVAC technician will determine the correct ERV capacity, typically based on your home’s square footage and occupancy. The ERV is then mounted (often in an attic, crawl space, or mechanical room) and connected to the supply and/or return ducts. Dedicated intake and exhaust ducts penetrate an exterior wall or roof to manage outdoor airflow. Control options range from simple wall switches to smart ventilation timers that coordinate with your thermostat. Proper balancing ensures that the ERV neither pressurizes nor depressurizes the home, achieving optimal energy savings and air quality.