Energy-recovery Ventilators
Energy-recovery Ventilators | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Ocoee
Breathe easier in Ocoee with HEP’s advanced energy-recovery ventilators, purpose-built to pull in fresh outdoor air while capturing up to 80% of the energy already paid for in your conditioning system. By continuously exchanging stale, humid indoor air for clean, tempered airflow, our ERVs balance humidity, reduce allergens, and cut utility costs—all without sacrificing comfort. It’s the smartest way to tackle the Sunshine State’s muggy summers and sudden cold snaps, keeping your home cozy year-round.
Pairing our ERVs with precision-tuned heating and cooling equipment creates a whole-home ecosystem focused on one thing: exceptional ventilation and air quality. From professional installation to seasonal maintenance, HEP’s local technicians tailor every solution to Ocoee’s unique climate and building codes, so you enjoy healthier air, energy savings, and peace of mind for years to come.
FAQs
What exactly is an energy-recovery ventilator (ERV) and how does it improve my indoor air quality?
An ERV is a balanced ventilation device that exhausts stale indoor air while simultaneously bringing in fresh outdoor air through a heat- and moisture-exchange core. As the two airstreams pass through the core, up to 80 % of the heat and a significant portion of the humidity are transferred from the outgoing to the incoming air (or vice-versa). This process means you get a steady supply of filtered, tempered fresh air without the large energy penalty of simply opening windows. The result is lower concentrations of dust, odors, carbon dioxide, VOCs, and other pollutants—leading to healthier, more comfortable indoor air.
Why is an ERV especially beneficial in Ocoee’s hot, humid climate?
Ocoee experiences long, muggy summers and short, mild winters. In summer, an ERV precools and dehumidifies incoming outdoor air with the cooler, drier exhaust air, reducing the load on your air conditioner and controlling indoor humidity that can lead to mold. During the cooler months, the unit recovers warmth and some moisture from the outgoing air, so you keep more heat inside and avoid overly dry indoor air. The year-round benefit is energy-efficient ventilation that keeps your home comfortable despite Florida’s challenging humidity levels.
Will an ERV work with my existing heating and air-conditioning system?
Yes. Most ERVs are designed to tie directly into the return-air side of your HVAC ductwork or operate with their own dedicated ducts. The unit has a small, efficient blower and can be wired to run continuously, on a timer, or based on a smart controller or wall switch. Because it balances the volume of supply and exhaust air, it prevents pressure imbalances that can undermine HVAC performance. A properly sized and installed ERV will feel seamless—your thermostat settings stay the same while air quality improves.
Will running an ERV increase my energy bills?
An ERV does consume a modest amount of electricity to power its fans, but it also recovers 60–80 % of the heating or cooling energy that would otherwise be lost with standard exhaust-only ventilation. Studies show that in Florida homes, an ERV can cut total ventilation-related conditioning costs by 20–30 % compared with exhaust fans or opening windows. Many homeowners see little to no net increase in utility bills—and some actually see a decrease—while gaining healthier air. In addition, ERVs may qualify for local utility rebates or federal tax incentives, further improving the cost balance.
How much maintenance does an ERV need?
Upkeep is straightforward: (1) Replace or vacuum the intake and exhaust filters every 3–6 months, depending on dust levels and manufacturer guidelines. (2) Inspect and, if necessary, clean the heat-exchange core once or twice a year with mild soap and water. (3) Check the condensate drain and exterior hoods for blockages every season. (4) Have a professional perform an annual airflow and component inspection at the same time as your HVAC tune-up. Regular maintenance keeps the unit efficient, quiet, and hygienic.
Do I need a professional to install an ERV, and what does your installation process in Ocoee involve?
Because proper sizing, duct routing, and system balancing are critical for performance and code compliance, professional installation is strongly recommended. Our Ocoee team starts with a free in-home assessment, calculating required airflow (usually 0.35 ACH or ASHRAE 62.2 levels) and selecting an ERV sized to your home’s square footage and family size. We then design duct connections or dedicated ducts, install exterior intake/exhaust hoods, mount and wire the unit, balance airflow, and demonstrate filter changes to you. A typical retrofit takes 4–6 hours, and we handle permits, code inspections, and manufacturer warranty registration for a hassle-free experience.