Energy-recovery Systems
Energy-recovery Systems | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Pikeville
Imagine a home in Pikeville where you breathe mountain-fresh air year-round while your utility bills stay comfortably low. HEP’s innovative energy-recovery systems marry heating and air conditioning with smart airflow management, capturing the energy from outgoing stale air and using it to pre-condition incoming fresh air. The result is a perfectly balanced indoor climate that’s kinder to both your wallet and the planet, all without the drafts or temperature swings of traditional HVAC setups.
By continuously exchanging, filtering, and tempering the air, our solutions dramatically elevate ventilation and air quality. Allergens, excess humidity, and lingering odors are whisked away, replaced by crisp, clean air that makes every room feel revitalized. Whether you’re upgrading an older home or building new, trust HEP to deliver comfort you can feel—and savings you can measure—right here in Pikeville.
FAQs
What is an energy-recovery ventilation (ERV/HRV) system and how does it work?
An energy-recovery ventilator (ERV) or heat-recovery ventilator (HRV) is a mechanical ventilation unit that exhausts stale indoor air while simultaneously bringing in filtered outdoor air. Inside the core of the unit, heat—and, in the case of an ERV, moisture—is transferred between the two air streams. In winter the outgoing warm air pre-heats the incoming cold air; in summer the cooler, conditioned exhaust air pre-cools and dehumidifies the incoming warm air. The result is a constant supply of fresh air with minimal loss of heating or cooling energy.
Why are energy-recovery systems a smart choice for homes and businesses in Pikeville’s climate?
Pikeville experiences humid summers and cool, sometimes damp winters. Traditional «open-window» ventilation wastes energy and can let uncomfortable humidity inside. An ERV/HRV keeps indoor air fresh without forcing your HVAC equipment to overcome large temperature or moisture swings. The technology reduces summer humidity, helps control winter dryness, and eases the workload on heat pumps and furnaces—benefits that translate into lower operating costs and more stable indoor comfort for Eastern Kentucky’s variable weather.
How much can I expect to save on utility bills by adding an ERV/HRV?
Savings depend on house tightness, system size, and how often you currently ventilate. National field studies show energy-recovery units reclaim 60–80 % of the heat (or cooling) that would otherwise be lost with conventional exhaust fans. In a typical Pikeville home, that can trim 10–25 % off heating costs in winter and 5–15 % off cooling costs in summer. Commercial buildings with longer operating hours often see even higher percentages. We provide a free site assessment to model payback; most residential projects recoup the investment in 3–7 years.
Can an energy-recovery unit be retrofitted to my existing heating and air-conditioning system?
Yes. ERV/HRV cabinets are designed to connect to the return-air side of most forced-air furnaces, heat pumps, and mini-split ducted systems. For homes without ductwork, dedicated ducting or a ductless ERV can be installed. During our evaluation we verify available space, electrical capacity, and airflow requirements, then recommend a configuration—stand-alone, fully integrated, or partially integrated—that maximizes efficiency without disrupting your current HVAC operation.
What kind of maintenance does an ERV/HRV require to keep air quality high?
Regular maintenance is straightforward: (1) Check and replace or wash the unit’s intake and exhaust filters every 3–4 months. (2) Inspect and vacuum the core twice a year; most cores can be removed and rinsed under low-pressure water. (3) Clean the condensate drain line to prevent clogs. (4) Make sure exterior hoods remain clear of leaves, lint, and snow. A yearly professional tune-up—including airflow balance and motor inspection—keeps the warranty valid and ensures the system continues to deliver peak energy recovery and healthy ventilation.
Are rebates or incentives available in Pikeville or Kentucky for installing an energy-recovery system?
Yes. The federal Inflation Reduction Act currently provides a 30 % Residential Clean Energy Credit (up to $2,000) for qualified ERV/HRV installations. Kentucky’s Residential Energy Efficiency Tax Credit may add up to an additional $500, and some local utilities serving Pikeville, such as Kentucky Power, periodically offer cash rebates for high-efficiency ventilation upgrades. We handle the paperwork and will identify every incentive you qualify for to lower your upfront cost.