Air Exchangers
Air Exchangers | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Whitwell
Breathe a little easier in Whitwell with HEP’s advanced air exchangers, engineered to keep every room at the perfect temperature while constantly refreshing the air you live in. Our systems quietly remove stale, humid air and replace it with crisp, filtered outdoor air—capturing pollen, dust, and other irritants along the way. The result is year-round comfort, lower energy bills, and a healthier home environment without the drafts or noise of traditional solutions.
Homeowners trust HEP because we handle every step, from precise sizing and seamless installation to ongoing maintenance that protects your investment for decades. If you’re ready to elevate your home’s ventilation and air quality, our local Whitwell team is just a phone call away—ready to deliver the clean, balanced indoor climate your family deserves.
FAQs
What does an air exchanger do, and why is it important for homes in Whitwell?
An air exchanger—often called an HRV (heat-recovery ventilator) or ERV (energy-recovery ventilator)—removes stale indoor air while bringing in fresh outdoor air. In Whitwell’s humid summers and cool winters, homes are built increasingly tight to save energy, which can trap moisture, odors, and pollutants. An air exchanger maintains healthy indoor air quality (IAQ) without wasting the heating or cooling you’ve paid for, because it transfers heat (and, with ERVs, some moisture) between the outgoing and incoming air streams.
Will an air exchanger increase my heating and cooling bills?
No. In most cases, it lowers overall energy costs. Instead of opening windows and letting conditioned air escape, an HRV/ERV recovers 60-80 % of the heat (or cooling) from the outgoing air. That recovered energy pre-conditions the incoming air, easing the load on your furnace or air conditioner. Properly sized units add only a small amount of fan electricity, which is usually offset by the energy saved through heat recovery and improved HVAC efficiency.
How do I know whether I need an HRV or an ERV in Whitwell’s climate?
Both work well in Whitwell. Choose an HRV if: (1) your main concern is removing excess moisture during winter, or (2) you already run a whole-house dehumidifier in summer. Choose an ERV if: (1) you want to retain some indoor humidity in winter to prevent overly dry air, and (2) you prefer additional summer moisture control without over-drying the house. Our technicians can measure indoor humidity and recommend the best option for your lifestyle.
Can an air exchanger be integrated with my existing HVAC system?
Yes. Most HRVs/ERVs are designed to connect directly to the return-air side of your existing ductwork, allowing the fresh air to mix with conditioned air before it reaches the living spaces. If you have a ductless mini-split or limited ductwork, we can install a dedicated distribution duct or point-to-point grilles. A professional assessment ensures proper airflow balance so your furnace or heat pump continues to operate at peak performance.
What maintenance does an air exchanger require?
Routine upkeep is simple: (1) clean or replace the intake and exhaust filters every 3–4 months; (2) inspect and clean the core or wheel (where heat/moisture exchange occurs) annually—most cores can be vacuumed or rinsed; (3) check that exterior vents are clear of leaves and lint; and (4) verify balanced airflow during your annual HVAC tune-up. Regular maintenance preserves efficiency, prevents mold growth, and keeps warranty coverage intact.
How long does installation take, and what does it typically cost in the Whitwell area?
A standard retrofit into existing ductwork usually takes one day for a two-person crew. Homes requiring new distribution ducts may take 1½–2 days. Pricing in Whitwell generally ranges from $2,800–$4,500 installed, depending on unit capacity (measured in CFM), HRV vs. ERV technology, and any duct modifications needed. We provide a free in-home estimate that includes airflow calculations, energy-savings projections, and available TVA or manufacturer rebates.