The Benefits of Installing an Energy Recovery Ventilator

Modern homes in Augusta, Georgia, have excellent insulation, but it can trap contaminants along with conditioned air. To save energy, remove stale air, and make yourself and your family more comfortable, you should have an energy recovery ventilator (ERV) installed.

How ERVs Work

A whole-home energy recovery ventilator exchanges the stale, polluted air inside your home with fresh, clean outdoor air. It works like a heat pump to transfer heat and moisture away from incoming air in summer, and it reverses the process to heat fresh air in winter. An ERV also filters the air to remove contaminants before they enter your home. You can have it installed in your HVAC system’s ductwork, or you can add it as a separate unit with ducts.

Energy Savings

ERVs use heat exchangers to keep your HVAC system from having to condition incoming air. They transfer water vapor along with heat, regulating your home’s humidity as well. Opening a door or a window could let hot, humid air into your home and make you and your family members uncomfortable. By using an ERV, you can use your system less while staying comfortable. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, most energy recovery ventilators can save 70 to 80 percent of the energy in outgoing air.

Comfort

Without adequate ventilation, dust, dirt, pollen, pet dander, excess humidity, and other pollutants can become trapped inside your home. These contaminants can create unpleasant smells, asthma or allergy symptoms, sore throats, eye irritation, and many other issues. They could also make you feel worse whenever you spend time inside your home. Even air fresheners and cleaners can contain volatile organic chemicals that cause fatigue, headaches and dizziness. An ERV can remove many contaminants, improving your indoor air quality and your comfort.

Plunkett Heating & Air is a Trane Comfort Specialist and has been providing heating, cooling and indoor air quality services since 1958. We can help you decide which energy recovery ventilator is best for your home. For outstanding service, call us anytime at 706-426-0779.

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