What is an ERV System in Condos and How Does it Work?

Modified on Wed, 29 Mar 2023 at 11:36 AM

An ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilator) System is a type of HVAC system commonly used in condo buildings to provide fresh air while minimizing energy consumption. Here is how it works:

  1. The ERV system consists of two separate air ducts: one for supply air and one for exhaust air. The supply air duct brings fresh outdoor air into the building, while the exhaust air duct removes stale indoor air.

  2. The ERV unit is typically located in the washroom and can also be connected to your HVAC system. The ERV is connected to both the supply and exhaust air ducts. It features a heat exchange core that allows for heat transfer between the incoming and outgoing air streams, without mixing them.

  3. As outdoor air is drawn into the ERV unit through the supply air duct, it passes through the heat exchange core, where it is pre-cooled in the summer and pre-heated in the winter by the outgoing indoor air. This heat exchange process helps to reduce the energy required to condition the incoming air, saving on energy costs.

  4. The pre-conditioned outdoor air then flows into the building through the supply air duct, while the stale indoor air is exhausted through the exhaust air duct and into the ERV unit.

  5. As the exhaust air passes through the heat exchange core, it transfers its heat and humidity to the incoming outdoor air. This helps to maintain a comfortable indoor environment, while also reducing the load on the heating and cooling system.

  6. The ERV unit also features air filters that help to remove dust, pollen, and other contaminants from the incoming outdoor air, improving indoor air quality.

Overall, an ERV system provides an efficient and effective way to provide fresh air to condo buildings while reducing energy consumption and improving indoor air quality.

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