Van Ee Ventilation Settings? The 80 Top Answers

This state-of-the-art controller offers an impressive range of operating modes while remaining easy to use. Platinum now offers even more control over ventilation and indoor air quality, while the fully automatic “SMART” mode feature offers today’s homeowners the energy efficiency they demand with the comfort they desire. The Platinum Wall Control’s attractive, customizable LCD display will delight customers and reduce callbacks.

“SMART” mode

Our latest innovation! This mode automatically optimizes the ventilation functions to ensure unmatched comfort in the home. It automatically adjusts ventilation based on indoor humidity and outdoor temperature to maximize occupant comfort. Provides peace of mind, energy cost savings and comfort to maximize well-being.

PROG mode

The operation of the ventilation unit is factory set for all 4 periods (morning, day, evening and night), for weekdays and weekend days. However, these settings can be changed. It allows to optimize the device operation according to the specific needs of the user.

VENT mode

In this mode, the air is exchanged to the outside at the speed (OFF, MIN or MAX) or in a cycle of 20, 30 or 40 minutes per hour, depending on the user’s choice.

RECIRC mode

In this mode, the user decides to recirculate the air in their home (OFF, MIN, MAX or OFF, MAX, depending on the device) as needed to achieve maximum indoor comfort.

Adapted to your preferences

The Platinum Preference Setup mode gives homeowners the freedom to customize the wall control to suit their needs with a choice of blue or green backlighting.

compatibility

Modern homes are so well insulated that they trap pollutants, allergens and moisture inside. Installing an air exchanger is an effective way to move stale air out and bring in fresh air. Read on to learn more about the benefits of these important devices.

Dust, fumes from cleaning products, smoke from cooking, humidity, CO2 from gas heaters, pet dander – we create indoor air pollution by going about our daily activities. Modern homes are built to keep warm air in the winter and cool air in the summer, allowing these pollutants to get stuck inside. Therefore, the building code stipulates that all new buildings – with a few exceptions – must be equipped with a mechanical ventilation system. The new requirements aim to improve the comfort and energy efficiency of new homes. Of course, an air exchanger can be installed in any building.

So what can an air exchanger do for you?

Optimize airflow and replace natural ventilation. Air exchangers should always be running, summer and winter. Depending on the size of your home, energy efficient air exchangers can circulate all of the air in your home in just a few hours.

Purify the air by removing pollutants (tobacco smoke or cooking smoke, toxic chemical fumes, etc.), dust and allergens and introducing fresh air.

(tobacco smoke or cooking smoke, toxic chemical fumes, etc.), dust and allergens and the introduction of fresh air. Eliminate odors (cigarettes, moisture, cooking, etc.) that can settle in fabrics (clothes, carpets, sofa cushions, etc.).

(cigarettes, moisture, cooking, etc.) that can get caught in fabrics (clothing, carpets, sofa cushions, etc.). Improve respiratory health and minimize health risks (asthma, lung disease, allergies, etc.) by extracting stale air and moisture and introducing fresh air.

(Asthma, lung diseases, allergies, etc.) by extracting stale air and moisture and supplying fresh air. Provide ventilation and eliminate excess moisture to prevent the growth of mold that can cause health problems. Air exchangers also prevent the formation of condensation on walls and windows. Many factors can increase humidity levels in your home (showers, condensation, plants, cooking, etc.).

, prevents the growth of mold that can cause health problems. Air exchangers also prevent the formation of condensation on walls and windows. Many factors can increase humidity levels in your home (showers, condensation, plants, cooking, etc.). Optimize the performance of heaters and air conditioners. Compared to traditional air exchangers, models with heat recovery filters heat and recover air, reducing energy costs.

Compared to traditional air exchangers, models with heat recovery filters heat and recover air, . Easy installation in your home. Venmar has several ranges and installation options to suit everyone, from the dedicated do-it-yourselfer to those who prefer to leave things to the professionals.

Looking for more ways to keep the air in your home fresh and clean? Read our article Seven tips to improve the air quality in your home. Do you need to buy an air exchanger? Find the perfect one for you! Our professionals are by your side from purchase to installation.

How to maintain your air exchanger in summer

Air exchangers are being installed more and more frequently in our homes, which are becoming increasingly airtight and prone to lack of air. Generally used in winter to maintain room temperature while refreshing the air supplied from outside, air exchangers are used differently when the nice days come. Many owners of these ingenious devices are wondering how to use their air exchangers in the summer. And with good reason: air exchangers are not used that way in summer, because the main reason is to filter the outside air and at the same time avoid heating up the room. This is a problem especially for people with an air exchanger and air conditioner at home to avoid wasting energy.

Adjust the settings

Before you worry about the maintenance of your air exchanger, you should adapt it to the outside temperature. By continuously bringing fresh air into your home from outside, these machines could potentially bring in more heat and humidity. Therefore, adjust the settings of your air exchanger by referring to the brand’s terms of use. If possible, you should adjust the settings so that in the warm season it switches to the “Convection” mode. This effectively limits the ingress of moisture and allows air to circulate throughout the home.

Replace the filters

Some air exchangers come with replaceable filters while others are permanent. In either case, it’s important to mark filter replacements on your calendar each season, or more frequently if you live on a street with heavy car and truck traffic. Replaceable filters should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and for those who don’t, you should also refer to the owner’s manual for instructions on how to remove the filters. These should be vacuum cleaned before washing with warm water and mild soap.

Clean exchanger

The air exchanger is often considered to be one of the most neglected machines in the home and needs very regular maintenance. In order for a heat exchanger to filter and purify the air inside, it seems logical that it should be as clean as possible. Therefore, clean the exchanger core every season, especially before summer, because the beautiful season brings allergens, dust and other pollutants with it.

Watch

With all these elements taken into account, it is important to observe the effect of your air exchanger on your interior space. For example, the issue of humidity is important and you should take care to monitor the humidity level in your home and the effect of your air cooler on it. The same applies to the air conditioning. If you notice that in summer you tend to drop the temperature more than usual, it is best to check whether the warm air is not caused by the use of the air exchanger. In these cases, you can consider turning off the air exchanger completely in the summer to avoid wasting even more energy. For reference, here is the humidity level you should aim for in a home based on the outside temperature:

Outside temperature between 10 °C and 20 °C: approximate humidity of 55%

Outside temperature between 0 °C and 10 °C: approximate humidity of 50%

Outside temperature between -10 °C and 0 °C: approximate humidity of 40%

Outside temperature between -20 °C and -10 °C: approximate humidity of 35%

Outside temperature between -30 °C and -20 °C: approximate humidity of 30%

A fresh and ventilated indoor climate is essential for a healthy home that stays in good condition for longer. Air exchangers are an excellent option, especially for increasingly insulated houses. In any case, it is always recommended to consult a professional to ensure proper maintenance.

You already know what we think about air exchangers. The surprisingly simple, easy-to-use device is one of the best ways to keep the air in your home fresh and clean. But if you have an air exchanger, how do you use it? Should you really just turn it on and forget it? Is there anything you can do to make it more effective?

We want you to get the most out of your air exchanger. With that in mind, we put our heads together to create this list of air exchanger best practices. Follow these simple tips and you could immediately see a huge improvement in the air quality in your home.

SET FOR COMFORT, NO FIXED NUMBER

Your air exchanger manual probably suggested a setting to keep your unit on for maximum effectiveness. There’s a reason manufacturers included this recommendation, but remember: they didn’t know your home. If the air in your home feels clogged or dirty with allergens, don’t be afraid to change the heat exchanger settings.

If you keep cranking up your air exchanger and it doesn’t help, chances are you’re dealing with a more serious problem. But remember: air quality fluctuates. It’s natural that you’ll need to change your air exchanger settings every now and then to keep up. Just because you have to crank it up now doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong. Go ahead and turn the dial when you need it. Remember that you bought your air exchanger to make you feel good. Use it!

REPLACE THE FILTER

No matter where they are installed, air filters basically do the same thing. When dirty air passes through the filter, pollutants get trapped…while the air keeps moving. The air that exits at the other end is free of pollutants and can be inhaled without hesitation.

So where do the pollutants end up? You remain trapped in the filter! Over time, filters fill up with the dirty pollutants they capture from the air. As they fill up, filters become less effective. After all, they could even make the air dirtier instead of cleaner. Replace the air filter in your heat exchanger about every three months to keep your heat exchanger as effective as possible.

KEEP IT ON

This one seems obvious, but you’ll have to use your air exchanger to make anything out of it! Your air exchanger is most effective when operated continuously. As long as it’s on, your heat exchanger will continuously filter out dirty air and bring in the clean stuff.

Turning off your heat exchanger can allow pollutants to build up in your indoor air. It will take time for your heat exchanger to expel this polluted air, even after you turn it back on. Keep your heat exchanger running on low settings all the time and you won’t have to worry about stale air building up.

TURN IT OFF IN SUMMER

Air conditioning your home in summer does two things. First, it keeps the air in your home cool (obviously). Second, it helps control the humidity of your air. In summer, the outside air naturally becomes more humid because hot air energizes water molecules and prevents them from condensing.

When you draw humid summer air into your home, your air conditioner has to work harder to compensate. As a result, your air conditioner runs longer, driving up your bills. Consider turning off your air exchanger while you’re using your air conditioner. To keep the air in your home fresh, turn off the air conditioner regularly and open the windows instead.

Last, best advice we have for using an air exchanger? Ask questions about anything you don’t know. If you need help with an air exchanger or general HVAC concerns you can always call Blue Ox Heating & Air.

Our experts have extensive experience installing and repairing all types of air exchangers and we can help you figure out yours. Enjoy your fresh air!

Credit: BanksPhotos/iStock/GettyImages See more photos

If your home is built to current standards, it likely has an air exchanger, as this is the only way the people in the building can get a healthy amount of fresh air to breathe. New homes are so well sealed and insulated that it is virtually impossible for fresh air to get in and stale air to get out any other way, unless of course you leave the windows open. That doesn’t work in winter, and even in summer an air exchanger can make the living environment more pleasant and less polluted than a few open windows.

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video of the day

Air exchangers are stand-alone components for HVAC systems and are often used with heat pumps to pre-condition the air before it is circulated into the home, helping to reduce energy costs. The concept behind an air exchanger is not complicated, and it has fewer moving parts than virtually any other HVAC component and is comparable in operation to a standard exhaust fan. If you have one in your house, it’s probably in the basement, and while it’s a simple machine, it needs regular maintenance. If it’s not working properly, you’ll notice the effects on your home’s temperature and indoor air quality.

advertisement

How does an air exchanger work?

An air exchanger consists of a rectangular metal box with two connections at both ends and a fan, a pair of filters and a central core inside. The core consists of a metal or fiber mesh that allows air to circulate in two directions without mixing. Although the flows do not mix, they exchange heat within the core, hence it is called a heat exchanger and is the central component of an air exchanger.

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The blower motor operates two separate fans. Fresh air is drawn in from outside, fed through the heat exchanger and the exhaust air fed into the living room via a duct system. The other fan draws indoor air into the heat exchanger and expels it to the outside. The currents flow diagonally to form a cross and the nucleus which is at the center of the cross. This forces the streams to flow through an intricate network that extracts heat from the warmer stream and transfers it to the cooler one without the airstreams touching. This ensures that the airflow entering the living space is warmer than the outside air in winter and cooler than the outside air in summer.

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The difference between an ERV and an HRV

The core of a heat recovery fan (HRV) typically has metal fins and does not affect the humidity of the incoming air. The core of an energy recovery fan (ERV), on the other hand, is an absorbent material that can transfer moisture between the two airflows, allowing for both humidity control and temperature control. The core material is similar to corrugated cardboard, but is actually a highly engineered resin composite that allows heat and moisture to pass through, but not air.

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ERVs are generally recommended for extreme climates—those with hot, humid summers or dry winters. When the humidity is high, the core releases moisture from the outside air to the exhaust air of the living space, and when the humidity is low, it recovers moisture from the inside air and returns it to the living space. Either way, it’s easier to maintain a comfortable indoor humidity level, which can make a world of difference for homeowners and others with conditions made worse by dry air.

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Check for balanced airflow

If your air exchanger is working properly, the air exchange must be balanced, ie the stale air that is sucked out of the living space is replaced with an equal amount of fresh air. If this is not the case, the house could be experiencing negative or positive air pressure, which could affect the operation of exhaust fans and combustion appliances such as gas stoves and cause indoor air quality problems. You can check the balance of your HRV or ERV using a large plastic garbage bag 48 inches deep and a wire hanger.

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Untangle the hanger, shape it into a circle and wrap the opening of the bag around it to secure with tape. Turn on the air exchanger and then go outside and find the exhaust vent that has air coming out of it. It’s usually right next to the air intake vent, but it can also be on the other side of the house. Squeeze the bag to deflate all the air, and then adjust the opening around the air outlet and measure how long it takes for the bag to fully inflate. Eight seconds is typical.

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Now go inside and locate the air intake vent for the system. Wave the same bag you used earlier to fill it with air, fit the opening over the vent, and measure how long it takes for the bag to fully deflate. The system is balanced when the time of deflation is approximately equal to the time of inflation, but there is a problem when the two times are significantly different.

Troubleshooting an air exchanger

If the air exchange is unbalanced, the first thing to consider is the filters. There are two inside the air exchanger housing – one protects the fan from outside air and one protects the inside air – and they could be dirty. They should be cleaned about every three months and can significantly restrict airflow when debris and dust are allowed to build up. Blockages in the inflow and outflow openings on the side of the stall caused by small animals or wasp nests can also impede the air flow and cause an imbalance. It is also possible that the dampers on the air exchanger ducts are partially closed.

An HRV does not transmit moisture. So when cold outside air meets warm inside air, moisture condenses on the heat exchanger core and drips into a catch pan. In some cases, the core can stay damp long enough for mold and mildew to grow, and the telltale musty smell can circulate throughout the home. The solution is to remove the core (which will just slide out), clean it by soaking it in a mixture of cold or warm water and dish soap, and then allow it to dry thoroughly before putting it back in. This is a safe procedure with an HRV core as it is made of metal, but the core of an ERV is fragile and can be damaged if you try to clean it manually. In any case, you shouldn’t need to do this as it’s designed to transfer moisture rather than collect it.

Aside from cleaning the filters, unclogging them, and checking for air duct leaks, there’s not much more maintenance required for homeowners — at least, what they can do themselves. It’s possible for the core to crack, which is a problem that can be solved by replacing it, and the blower or blower motor can fail, and repair is a job for an HVAC professional. More complex issues can arise with an air exchanger coupled to a heating or cooling system and should also be addressed by a professional.

Should you run your heat or energy recovery fan (HRV or ERV) in the summer? The answer depends on your home’s air conditioning system, your ERV wall controller, the outside temperature, and most importantly, the relative humidity outside.

As a rule of thumb, if you feel more comfortable outside than inside, you should run your air exchanger in the summer.

First, let’s talk about ERVs. An ERV works by exchanging your indoor air with fresh outdoor air while recovering some of the heat and humidity difference in the airflows. Simply put, your ERV keeps warmth and moisture where they are. In the summer, heat and humidity are outside, and your ERV blocks most of that from getting inside with your ventilation air.

If your indoor air and outdoor air are about the same temperature and relative humidity (e.g. if you keep the windows open) then it really isn’t necessary to run the ERV to have good indoor air quality.

However, if you have air conditioning and the inside air is cooler and drier than the outside air, it’s generally a good idea to run your ERV intermittently throughout the day. Assuming you keep the windows closed while the air conditioning is on, you need fresh air to prevent CO2 buildup and avoid that stale “airplane cabin” smell. You can operate your Aldes ERV intermittently depending on your wall control:

Manual dehumidifier: Leave the dehumidifier off. If you have a timer wall control, you can use it to start the ERV periodically when the house is occupied, especially just before bedtime. Mode Control: Set to OFF and use the timer as above. Speed ​​Control: Choose the intermittent setting (20 minutes low speed change followed by 40 minutes rest). Digital Multifunction Control: Select ECO 2 mode (20 minutes low speed change followed by 40 minutes rest). Electronic Humidity Controller with LCD: Select intermittent mode (20 minutes low speed alternation followed by 40 minutes rest).

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Running your ERV to get fresh air instead of opening the windows has the added benefit of partially pre-cooling and dehumidifying the incoming warm air thanks to the energy recovery core. The air conditioner does not have to work as hard to bring the fresh air to the desired temperature.

What about HRV? If you have an HRV (heat recovery fan) instead of an ERV, the only difference is that the moisture in the outside air flows through the HRV core without moisture transfer and the cooler inside air can feel damp (because cold air can hold less water vapor than warm air Air). You can use a dehumidifier in addition to the air conditioner.

How can you tell if you have Aldes HRV or ERV? Just look at the model number: if it starts with an “E”, you have an ERV; If it starts with an “H,” it’s an HRV.

To maximize your home’s indoor air quality, and therefore your health, you should take every opportunity when outside conditions are comfortable (e.g. at night) to run your air exchanger.

When winter comes you tend to keep your doors and windows closed to keep cold air out. Then, when summer comes, you’ll probably keep your house closed to keep the cool air in. The question is, when will you ever get rid of that stale air that stays trapped inside?

The reality is that you need to keep the air circulating in your home. And fortunately, this is where ventilation systems with heat recovery or HRV systems come into play.

An HRV system is designed to replace your stale indoor air with fresh, outdoor air. The system filters the air as it enters your home. However, you need to adjust the settings of this system for different seasons and temperatures.

Here’s an overview of how you can use your HRV system all year round.

Let’s start!

fall/winter season

During the cooler months, your HRV system allows you to control your home’s air quality by removing odors and excess moisture, including condensation on your windows.

As a general rule of thumb, set your system’s dehumidifier between 25 and 50 percent, depending on the temperature, to keep condensation at bay.

For example, 50 percent is the maximum relative humidity you should have when the outside temperature is between -11 degrees Celsius and 18 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, the humidity should be 25 percent when the temperature is -30 degrees Celsius or below.

Let’s say you’ve set your dehumidifier to a certain percentage in that range, but you’re still noticing moisture developing on your windows. In this situation, you should lower the setting to 5 percent. Keep doing this until there is no more moisture developing on your windows.

When your HRV system is running, your oven fan must also be running. This will help you further reduce condensation.

spring/summer season

During the warm months, after your temperature has stayed consistently above 18 degrees Celsius, you should set your system’s dehumidifier to 100 percent. Alternatively, you should put it in the “off” position.

If you start noticing congestion or odors, you can turn on your HRV system with the bathroom fan on.

However, be aware that running the system too frequently or continuously will allow hot, humid outside air to enter your home. As a result, your home’s air conditioner runs more frequently.

How we can help you with our HRV systems

We offer top-of-the-line HRV systems to keep your air clean and fresh all year round.

With our systems you can easily control any extra humidity in your home. You can also filter the chemicals that are in the glue, paint, or carpet used in your home. The devices are also designed to reduce the energy consumption of your HVAC system.

Our units come with a core HRV lifetime warranty as well as a five-year parts replacement warranty.

Contact us to learn more about our Winnipeg HRV systems that can add long-term comfort and value to your home.

Would I use more energy if I ran an HRV all the time?

Although HRVs and ERVs require energy to operate, this energy is offset by the heat recovered from the exhaust air. Airtight houses equipped with heat recovery systems have significantly lower annual energy costs than ventilation without heat recovery. However, if the home was significantly under-ventilated prior to installing the HRV/ERV, overall energy costs could increase due to the increased, but now reasonable, ventilation rate.

To ensure your home is well ventilated and maintains good air quality, your HRV and ERV should be running continuously. Many HRV fans can run at low, medium, or high speeds depending on ventilation needs. A common control strategy is to run the HRV continuously at low or medium speed and switch to high speed when a higher ventilation rate is required, e.g. B. when the bathroom is in use or during periods of high occupancy.

For more information on HRVs, see the Home Heat Reclaim Ventilation Guide.

Have you seen a building science or energy-efficient term that you didn’t understand? Check out our glossary.

Controlling Winter Humidity: When to Use Your HRV (ERV), Dehumidifier, or Humidifier

I recently visited a client who was running their Energy Recovery Fan (ERV) and a dehumidifier to dehumidify their home. At the same time, they also operated a humidifier, where the water literally ran down the drain.

I turned off the dehumidifier and humidifier (including the water) and increased the ERV’s ventilation to lower the humidity. Why was that important? Because the excess humidity was frozen on the inside of the cold concrete foundation wall in the extreme cold and now dripped onto her basement floor with the rapid thaw.

Of course the customer wasn’t very happy, but the main cause was too high humidity in his house and the customer didn’t understand how to operate his mechanical system. When we drained the moisture in the house, the water dried up on the floor.

Here’s a quick rundown of when to use HRV/ERVs, dehumidifiers, and humidifiers

Dehumidifiers are much less effective and more expensive than an HRV/ERV in winter. We recommend using a dehumidifier during the spring and fall months when you are not running air conditioning and the outside air can be overly humid. You may also occasionally need a dehumidifier in the summer when the outside air gets extremely hot and humid and the air conditioner is struggling to keep up. (If your air conditioning is running and the temperature is where it should be but the air feels clammy, you may want to run a dehumidifier to help the air conditioning). Last summer we had about 3-4 weeks where this should have happened. In a brand new home, you may need to run a dehumidifier a little longer while the house dries out.

Humidifiers are common if you live in a drafty old house. If so, there’s a good chance your home is too dry in the winter and you might even need to add moisture by using a humidifier. However, today’s high-efficiency homes with increasingly dense building envelopes do not lose as much moisture as homes built just a few years ago. Customers used to a drafty old home expect to need a humidifier, but we try to discourage use of it.

HRV/ERVs are a very cost-effective way to reduce indoor humidity when the air outside is colder than the air inside the home. The colder the air, the greater the dehumidification capacity of an HRV/ERV. (An exception would be if there is a rainy weather system in the area). Both HRVs and ERVs help with winter humidity and provide continuous fresh air for better indoor air quality. However, ERVs have the added benefit of reducing overdrying of the home in winter and moisture build-up in summer, making your air conditioner run more efficiently. One of the additional benefits of the VanEE ERV that we deliver to our customers is the Platinum control. If you are using an HRV, a good rule of thumb would be to set the humidity level at 30% in the winter and then monitor your humidity. If you have the VanEE ERV with Platinum Control it will do this job for you. There may be occasions when you need to run the system at maximum ventilation when it is extremely cold outside. Remember the rule of thumb: if you see moisture building up on your windows, you have too much moisture and you need to run your ventilation system.

The easy-to-use Altitude wall control is at the forefront of the market and offers an impressive range of operating modes. With an attractive and customizable state-of-the-art LCD screen, the Altitude wall control meets your everyday ventilation needs.

The operation of the ventilation unit is factory set for all 4 periods (morning, day, evening and night), for weekdays and weekend days. However, these settings can be changed in programming mode. It allows to optimize the device operation according to the specific needs of the user

Smart mode automatically optimizes ventilation functions to ensure unmatched comfort in the home and increase energy savings. In particular, indoor relative humidity and temperature values ​​are used to control air exchange with the outside world and maximize occupant comfort. Smart mode provides security.

4 modes: smart, program, ventilation and convection

Choice of blue or green backlight for the digital display

Day, hour and periods are displayed

Maintenance indicator for dynamic replacement

recirculation indicator

Credit: BanksPhotos/iStock/GettyImages See more photos

If your home is built to current standards, it likely has an air exchanger, as this is the only way the people in the building can get a healthy amount of fresh air to breathe. New homes are so well sealed and insulated that it is virtually impossible for fresh air to get in and stale air to get out any other way, unless of course you leave the windows open. That doesn’t work in winter, and even in summer an air exchanger can make the living environment more pleasant and less polluted than a few open windows.

advertisement

video of the day

Air exchangers are stand-alone components for HVAC systems and are often used with heat pumps to pre-condition the air before it is circulated into the home, helping to reduce energy costs. The concept behind an air exchanger is not complicated, and it has fewer moving parts than virtually any other HVAC component and is comparable in operation to a standard exhaust fan. If you have one in your house, it’s probably in the basement, and while it’s a simple machine, it needs regular maintenance. If it’s not working properly, you’ll notice the effects on your home’s temperature and indoor air quality.

advertisement

How does an air exchanger work?

An air exchanger consists of a rectangular metal box with two connections at both ends and a fan, a pair of filters and a central core inside. The core consists of a metal or fiber mesh that allows air to circulate in two directions without mixing. Although the flows do not mix, they exchange heat within the core, hence it is called a heat exchanger and is the central component of an air exchanger.

advertisement

The blower motor operates two separate fans. Fresh air is drawn in from outside, fed through the heat exchanger and the exhaust air fed into the living room via a duct system. The other fan draws indoor air into the heat exchanger and expels it to the outside. The currents flow diagonally to form a cross and the nucleus which is at the center of the cross. This forces the streams to flow through an intricate network that extracts heat from the warmer stream and transfers it to the cooler one without the airstreams touching. This ensures that the airflow entering the living space is warmer than the outside air in winter and cooler than the outside air in summer.

advertisement

The difference between an ERV and an HRV

The core of a heat recovery fan (HRV) typically has metal fins and does not affect the humidity of the incoming air. The core of an energy recovery fan (ERV), on the other hand, is an absorbent material that can transfer moisture between the two airflows, allowing for both humidity control and temperature control. The core material is similar to corrugated cardboard, but is actually a highly engineered resin composite that allows heat and moisture to pass through, but not air.

advertisement

ERVs are generally recommended for extreme climates—those with hot, humid summers or dry winters. When the humidity is high, the core releases moisture from the outside air to the exhaust air of the living space, and when the humidity is low, it recovers moisture from the inside air and returns it to the living space. Either way, it’s easier to maintain a comfortable indoor humidity level, which can make a world of difference for homeowners and others with conditions made worse by dry air.

advertisement

Check for balanced airflow

If your air exchanger is working properly, the air exchange must be balanced, ie the stale air that is sucked out of the living space is replaced with an equal amount of fresh air. If this is not the case, the house could be experiencing negative or positive air pressure, which could affect the operation of exhaust fans and combustion appliances such as gas stoves and cause indoor air quality problems. You can check the balance of your HRV or ERV using a large plastic garbage bag 48 inches deep and a wire hanger.

advertisement

Untangle the hanger, shape it into a circle and wrap the opening of the bag around it to secure with tape. Turn on the air exchanger and then go outside and find the exhaust vent that has air coming out of it. It’s usually right next to the air intake vent, but it can also be on the other side of the house. Squeeze the bag to deflate all the air, and then adjust the opening around the air outlet and measure how long it takes for the bag to fully inflate. Eight seconds is typical.

advertisement

Now go inside and locate the air intake vent for the system. Wave the same bag you used earlier to fill it with air, fit the opening over the vent, and measure how long it takes for the bag to fully deflate. The system is balanced when the time of deflation is approximately equal to the time of inflation, but there is a problem when the two times are significantly different.

Troubleshooting an air exchanger

If the air exchange is unbalanced, the first thing to consider is the filters. There are two inside the air exchanger housing – one protects the fan from outside air and one protects the inside air – and they could be dirty. They should be cleaned about every three months and can significantly restrict airflow when debris and dust are allowed to build up. Blockages in the inflow and outflow openings on the side of the stall caused by small animals or wasp nests can also impede the air flow and cause an imbalance. It is also possible that the dampers on the air exchanger ducts are partially closed.

An HRV does not transmit moisture. So when cold outside air meets warm inside air, moisture condenses on the heat exchanger core and drips into a catch pan. In some cases, the core can stay damp long enough for mold and mildew to grow, and the telltale musty smell can circulate throughout the home. The solution is to remove the core (which will just slide out), clean it by soaking it in a mixture of cold or warm water and dish soap, and then allow it to dry thoroughly before putting it back in. This is a safe procedure with an HRV core as it is made of metal, but the core of an ERV is fragile and can be damaged if you try to clean it manually. In any case, you shouldn’t need to do this as it’s designed to transfer moisture rather than collect it.

Aside from cleaning the filters, unclogging them, and checking for air duct leaks, there’s not much more maintenance required for homeowners — at least, what they can do themselves. It’s possible for the core to crack, which is a problem that can be solved by replacing it, and the blower or blower motor can fail, and repair is a job for an HVAC professional. More complex issues can arise with an air exchanger coupled to a heating or cooling system and should also be addressed by a professional.

When you hear “pollution,” you probably don’t think of the air in your own home, but poor indoor air quality can affect your health just like urban smog. Modern homes are extremely well insulated and tightly sealed, meaning they keep stale and polluted air trapped inside, necessitating air exchangers. In fact, in cities that have adopted the latest version of the National Building Code, air exchangers are required in all new construction. But how exactly do air exchangers work? How can they improve your quality of life? What is the best model for you? We have all the answers here!

What do air exchangers do?

Extract stale air and bring in fresh air: Unlike older buildings, which can leak, modern homes are tightly sealed and don’t let air through. Air exchangers help your home “breathe” by sending stale air and pollutants out and drawing fresh air in.

Regulate humidity: Air exchangers eliminate excess moisture, keeping your home comfortable – not too humid and not too dry.

Eliminate Odors: Air exchangers eliminate pet odors, cooking odors, and other household odors while circulating air.

How can poorly regulated humidity affect your health?

When the air in your home is too dry

In winter, your heating can cause the air in your home to dry out. You may even need to use a humidifier to compensate.

Common symptoms are:

Dry skin

itchy skin

Dry, itchy eyes

Chapped Lips

Stuffy nose

nosebleeds

Air that is too dry can also worsen the symptoms of respiratory diseases such as asthma and skin conditions such as eczema. And some viruses, like the flu, can survive even longer in arid environments.

When the air in your home is too humid

Persistently high humidity can lead to mold growth in your house and have a negative impact on the building fabric and your health.

Common symptoms are:

colds

paranasal sinuses

Cough

slime formation

gasping

shortness of breath

asthma symptoms

Allergic reaction

Symptoms can be more severe in vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and the sick.

Source: Health Canada

Fresh air at a fresh price!

Save money and energy with our range of air exchangers equipped with heat recovery (HRV) and energy recovery (ERV) technology.

HRV: These systems transfer heat from the evacuated air to the incoming air while preventing fresh and stale air from mixing.

These systems transfer heat from the evacuated air to the incoming air while preventing fresh and stale air from mixing. ERV: These systems work the same as HRV systems, plus they limit the amount of moisture entering your home. ERV systems are perfect for people living in humid climates!

Which air exchanger is right for you?

When deciding on an air exchanger, consider your needs and the square footage of your home. The first two models below are easy to install yourself and are available at hardware stores near you.

EVO5 500 HRV: This air exchanger has a heat recovery core and warms the air as it enters your home, improving the comfort of your indoor climate. This product is best suited for homes up to 2,700 square feet of living space. For further information, click here!

EVO5 700 HRV HEPA: This model not only recovers heat, it is also equipped with a HEPA filter that captures 99.97% of allergens and other microscopic particles in the air. If you are looking for optimal air quality, look no further – this model is ideal for people suffering from allergies, asthma or other breathing problems. This product is best suited for homes up to 3,000 square feet of living space. For further information, click here!

VENMAR AVS: If you prefer a turnkey ventilation solution, you can opt for one of the many products in the Venmar AVS range, which will be installed by one of our trained and certified specialists. The AVS line includes products for every style of living and is ideal for those who prefer to leave things to the professionals.

Maintenance of air exchangers

filter

(Every 3 months or every new season)

Remove filters.

Vacuum filter to remove most of the dust.

Wash in lukewarm water and mild soap solution. Rinse the filters thoroughly and shake to remove excess water, then allow to dry.

replacement module

(Annual fall maintenance)

A-HRV polypropylene core

Remove the heat recovery core.

Soak in a cold or lukewarm solution of water and mild soap (dishwashing liquid).

Rinse thoroughly. Shake the core to remove excess water, then allow to dry.

Device models 65E HRV 40H, 40H+ and 50H G2400H ECM and G3000H ECM Vigör™ HRV and HRV Plus HRV 90H-V ECM Novo+: All models Bronze HRV 60H, 90H-V, 100H and 200H Gold 1001 and 2001 HRV HE: All models

B-ERV core

Remove the energy recovery core.

Remove dust with a vacuum and a soft brush attachment.

Attention: Never soak the core in water.

Device models 65E ERV 70E, 70E+ and 70E ECM 40E G2400E ECM and G3000E ECM Vigör™ ERV ERV 90H-V ECM Bronze ERV 60H Gold 1001 and 2001 ERV

It is also recommended to check the outside air intake once a year to ensure that no leaves, twigs, ice or snow can be drawn into the unit.

WARNING: Always unplug the unit before performing seasonal or annual maintenance.

Do you have any further questions? Contact our customer support.

1-800-567-3855

Monday to Friday: 8am to 5pm (ET)

Depending on the geographic location of your home and the building code requirements in your area, you will need to install one of the following categories of air exchangers:

A heat recovery ventilation (HRV) system or an energy recovery fan (ERV).

HRV – Heat Recovery Fan

Ideal for colder climates

In colder climates where heating the home is essential, the heat recovery fan (HRV) is the right choice. The HRV ensures that the house is continuously supplied with fresh outside air. As stale, warm air is expelled, the heat recovery core heats the incoming fresh, colder air before it is circulated throughout the home. The result is a constant supply of fresh air, no unpleasant drafts and more living comfort. In addition to heat recovery and improved air quality, the HRV provides the necessary ventilation while controlling excess humidity.

ERV – Energy Recovery Fan

Ideal for year-round ventilation

ERVs are suitable for all climates, including those with hot, humid summers where homes are air conditioned and possibly dehumidified for large parts of the year. Like the HRV, the ERV recovers heat during the cold season, but it also recovers the energy trapped in the moisture, greatly improving the overall recovery efficiency. The ERV process is as follows: In humid climates and air-conditioned homes, when it is wetter outside than inside, the ERV limits the amount of moisture entering your home. In dry climates and humidified homes, the ERV limits the amount of moisture that is expelled from your home when humidity levels reverse.

heating season

cooling season

You can also read the Frequently Asked Questions section and the Advice and Solutions section to learn more about HRV and ERV.