An HRV, or Heat Recovery Ventilator, is a mechanical ventilation system designed to improve indoor air quality in energy-efficient homes by providing fresh outdoor air while minimizing heat loss. The primary function of an HRV is to exchange stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air, maintaining proper ventilation and controlling humidity levels. HRVs consist of two separate air streams: one for exhaust air (stale indoor air) and one for incoming fresh air. The core of an HRV is a heat exchanger, which transfers heat from the exhaust air to the incoming fresh air without mixing the two air streams. In cold weather, the HRV recovers heat from the warm exhaust air and transfers it to the incoming fresh air. This process helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures while reducing the energy needed to heat the fresh air, making your home more energy-efficient. Some benefits of an HRV include: Improved indoor air quality: By continuously exchanging stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air, an HRV reduces pollutants, allergens, and odours, promoting a healthier living environment. Energy efficiency: The heat recovery process minimizes heat loss, reducing the energy required to heat your home and lowering energy costs. Humidity control: HRVs can help maintain optimal indoor humidity levels by expelling excess moisture from activities like cooking and showering. Balanced ventilation: An HRV provides balanced ventilation, ensuring that the same amount of air is exhausted from and supplied to your home, maintaining consistent air pressure. If you're interested in installing an HRV system in your home or need assistance with an existing HRV, contact Martino HVAC. Our technicians can help you select the best HRV system for your needs, provide professional installation, and offer maintenance and repair services to keep your system operating efficiently.