An energy recovery ventilator (ERV) improves indoor air quality while reducing HVAC energy use by capturing heat and moisture from exhaust air and transferring it to incoming fresh air. Ideal for commercial buildings, ERVs allow high ventilation rates without high energy costs.
An energy recovery ventilator (ERV) is a mechanical ventilation system that exchanges heat and moisture between outgoing stale air and incoming outdoor air. These systems are essential in commercial buildings where fresh air is required to meet code or maintain occupant health, but where conditioning that air can be expensive.
ERVs use a core heat exchanger to transfer thermal energy and humidity between the exhaust and intake airstreams. In winter, they preheat and humidify incoming cold air. In summer, they pre-cool and dehumidify incoming hot air. This reduces the workload on the HVAC system and improves building comfort and air quality.
ERVs are used in new construction and retrofit projects across sectors such as education, healthcare, office, and multifamily buildings.
Lower HVAC Energy Costs – Reduces heating and cooling demand from outdoor air
Improved Indoor Air Quality – Brings in fresh air without uncomfortable temperature swings
Humidity Management – Helps control moisture levels in all seasons
Supports LEED, WELL, and ESG Goals – Demonstrates commitment to health and sustainability
Customizable for Retrofits or New Builds – Flexible configurations for most HVAC designs
Qualifies for Utility Rebates – Recognized as an energy-saving measure by many programs
Works with Existing Ductwork or DOAS – Can integrate without a full system overhaul
Winter: Exhaust air transfers heat and humidity to cold incoming air, reducing heating demand.
Summer: Exhaust air absorbs heat and moisture from incoming air, reducing cooling and dehumidification needs.
Core Technology: Heat and moisture are exchanged via a rotating enthalpy wheel or fixed-plate membrane without mixing air streams.
Operation: ERVs can be standalone units or integrated into rooftop units, DOAS systems, or air handlers.
ERVs maintain ventilation requirements while reducing energy loss — a win for both compliance and sustainability.
Energy recovery ventilators reduce HVAC system energy use by recovering up to 70–80% of thermal energy from exhaust air.
Lower Heating & Cooling Loads: Less energy is needed to bring fresh air to desired indoor conditions.
Reduced Equipment Runtime: HVAC systems cycle less often due to reduced demand.
Smaller Equipment Sizing: Pre-conditioning air allows right-sized HVAC designs.
Humidity Stabilization: Minimizes need for additional humidification or dehumidification equipment.
Supports 24/7 Ventilation: Delivers fresh air with less energy, even during unoccupied hours or in humid climates.
Savings vary by climate but are most significant in regions with extreme outdoor temperatures or high ventilation requirements.
ERVs are best suited for:
Buildings with tight envelopes or mechanical-only ventilation
Properties with high occupant density (e.g., classrooms, open offices)
Facilities in extreme climates needing air pre-conditioning
Public buildings with IAQ and sustainability mandates
Ventilation Load Assessment – Determine fresh air requirements and system compatibility
System Design – Select ERV type (core or wheel), placement, and airflows
Equipment Selection – Choose appropriate size, efficiency rating, and controls
Installation & Integration – Connect with ductwork, rooftop units, or standalone systems
Testing & Commissioning – Verify energy transfer, balance airflows, and confirm code compliance
Optional Monitoring – Integrate with BMS for performance tracking
Utility Incentives – Available for HVAC optimization and energy recovery retrofits
Public Sector IAQ Funding – ERVs qualify under indoor air improvement grants for schools and government facilities
Custom Incentive Modeling – Inovis calculates ROI and applies for available rebates on your behalf
Bundled Project Financing – Combine ERV installation with broader HVAC upgrades for total savings
Ready to improve your building’s ventilation without driving up energy bills? Inovis can design and install the right energy recovery ventilator system for your facility.
