A Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV) system is a mechanical ventilation system that helps to improve indoor air quality while minimizing energy loss. It achieves this by recovering heat from the outgoing stale air and transferring it to the incoming fresh air.
Here's how an HRV system typically works:
Air Exchange: The HRV system is installed in a building, usually in a central location such as the basement or utility room. It consists of two duct systems: one for extracting stale air from the building and another for supplying fresh air into the building.
Heat Exchanger: The heart of the HRV system is the heat exchanger, also known as the core. It is a heat transfer device with a series of plates or membranes that separate the incoming and outgoing air streams. The design allows the transfer of heat between the two airflows without mixing them.
Stale Air Extraction: Stale air is drawn out from areas with high humidity and pollutants, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and living spaces. This air is typically vented through ducts connected to the HRV system.
Heat Recovery: As the stale air passes through the heat exchanger, the heat energy is transferred to the plates or membranes. The heat exchanger retains the heat energy without mixing the outgoing and incoming air.
Fresh Air Supply: Simultaneously, fresh outdoor air is drawn into the HRV system from outside the building. The incoming air passes through the opposite side of the heat exchanger.
Heat Transfer: The heat exchanger transfers the heat energy from the plates or membranes to the incoming fresh air. The heat is effectively recovered from the outgoing stale air and transferred to the incoming air stream.
Air Distribution: The now pre-conditioned fresh air is distributed throughout the building through the supply ducts. The distribution ensures that fresh air reaches various rooms and living spaces, thereby improving indoor air quality.
Energy Efficiency: By recovering the heat from the outgoing air, the HRV system reduces the need for additional heating or cooling. This energy efficiency helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature while minimizing energy consumption.
Air Filtration: Most HRV systems include filters to remove dust, allergens, and other particles from the incoming fresh air, improving the overall air quality within the building.
By utilizing an HRV system, buildings can achieve proper ventilation while minimizing energy loss. This is particularly beneficial in climates with extreme temperatures, as it allows for efficient heat exchange and reduces the strain on heating and cooling systems.