These are some common questions people have about the installation, maintenance and operation of  Heat Recovery Ventilation Systems (HRV). If you have others please contact us and we'll be happy to answer them.

Why is proper ventilation in my home so important?

Controlling Moisture Levels in your home – Moisture comes from cooking, bathing and breathing. Too much moisture may not only cause condensation which can damage the structure of your home but also provides a breeding ground for mould, mildew & bacteria.

Ridding your home of pollutants and Contaminants –construction materials used in new homes and furniture as well as regular household products may release toxic fumes and gases that contribute to poor indoor air quality and possible health issues.  

How is a Heat Recovery Ventilation System different from a regular air exchanger?

Can a HRV system be installed in an older home?

Yes. Clean Air Solututions will install a ventilation system that is custom fit for your home.

How do I maintain my ventilation system once it’s installed?

Regular Maintenance of your HRV system is required to keep it working properly. In fact an improperly serviced HRV may not only contaminate the incoming air but also reduce the transfer of heat energy from 80% to as low as 20%.

Clean Air Solutions recommends following this service schedule:

Spring – Mid June

Turn your wall control to a high setting (above 70)

Fall – Mid October

Turn your wall control back to its regular setting (usually 45)

Every 3 Months

Remove & Clean Filters

Clean Exterior Vents

Annually

HRV Servicing by Clean Air Solutions using their 10 Point Service Plan

1. Remove & clean core and filters.

2. Remove fans and clean housing and fan blades.

3. Clean exterior vents and reseal if required.

4. Check defrost damper and cold air sensor.

5. Check air flows and rebalance as required.

6. Check duct system and reseal where necessary in accessible areas.

7. Check the wall control and advise homeowner of proper settings.

8. Remove ceiling or wall grills and clean.

9.Clean duct work around ceiling grills if required.

10. Report any defects in the heat exchanger system to homeowner.

Will a HRV work with all heating systems?

Yes. It is independent of the heating system in the house.

Are there health benefits to installing a HRV?

According to Health Canada, 1 in 4 Canadians have reported health problems linked to poor indoor air quality.

Indoor pollutants can contribute to health issues such as allergies, headaches, fatigue, asthma and other respiratory conditions. Removing contaminated air from your home and bringing in fresh air can alleviate these symptoms.

Visit Health Canada for more information.

Does the same air get recycled?

No. There are two vents: one draws the warm stale and polluted air from the living areas of your home through the HRV system to be released outside. The second draws a continuous stream of cool fresh air in through the system to be distributed throughout your home. The ducts run side by side and only the heat energy is transferred from one to the other.

How much does it cost to install a HRV system?

The cost to install a HRV will vary depending on the size of the home, whether it’s newly constructed or requires retrofitting, the complexity of the installation, etc.

Steve Morey of Clean Air Solutions will visit your home and provide you with an estimate, at no cost to you.  Contact us to arrange an appointment.