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Frequently Asked Questions
What does an HRV transfer?
Heat only.
The exchanger surface is non-permeable.
Temperature crosses between the airstreams.
Moisture does not.
That is the defining limitation.
It is also, often, the point.
When is heat-only the right answer?
When the building has too much moisture.
High occupancy, cooking, drying and bathing generate it.
Cold winters make it condense on cold surfaces.
An HRV sends that moisture outside.
It recovers the heat and lowers humidity together.
An enthalpy device would return it.
So how does it compare with an ERV?
Not on efficiency but on direction of need.
Ask whether the building wants its moisture back.
Moisture-generating occupancy says no.
Dry indoor air in a cold climate says yes.
Humid summers favour enthalpy for latent load.
Climate and occupancy decide together.
Is condensate certain?
Yes, rather than possible.
Exhaust moisture condenses on the cold surface.
A drain with a trap must be provided.
It must not be allowed to freeze.
A blocked drain floods the unit.
Plan the route with the installation.
Why does frost matter more here?
There is no moisture transfer to moderate it.
The cold face reaches lower temperatures.
Condensate then freezes and blocks channels.
Airflow falls progressively.
Preheat, recirculation or defrost handle it.
Standard in cold climates, not an option.
Where are HRVs typically used?
Dwellings and small commercial buildings.
Cold climates with airtight construction.
Anywhere continuous ventilation is required.
They suit whole-house systems well.
Larger buildings often prefer wheels.
Scale and carryover tolerance decide.
What maintenance do they need?
Filters, the exchanger and the drain.
Filters are the routine consumable.
The exchanger needs periodic cleaning.
Drains and traps block with debris.
Access for all three is worth checking.
Neglected filters cut airflow first.