Questions covered in this guide
Ask what ventilation need is being addressed
Request the assessment or design basis for the proposed ventilation system. List the rooms and existing exhaust devices that the contractor intends to include. Keep the goal separate from the home’s heating or cooling equipment size. A ventilation proposal should explain air exchange and operation rather than relying only on the name of a recovery device.
Clarify the equipment distinction
DOE describes heat exchangers in HRV and ERV systems. ERVs additionally transfer some water vapor. Ask why the selected type suits the home, climate and intended operating conditions. Request the exact product model and a description of what it does and does not control. Do not treat an ERV as an automatic substitute for a dehumidifier or assume an HRV is appropriate simply because it is available.
Compare the complete air paths
Make rows for outdoor intake, indoor supply, indoor exhaust, discharge location, controls, filters and service access. Have the installer show the proposed routes and explain any connection to existing ducts. Ask how airflow balance will be measured and what owner settings are intended for normal use. Include condensate or frost-management requirements where the selected product needs them, without inventing a universal design. Record wall or ceiling restoration and the trade responsible for each part.
Budget installation and upkeep together
Request a complete installed total plus the owner maintenance instructions. Ask which consumables or service visits are expected and keep only actual quoted amounts in your comparison. Use the HVAC calculator for supported replacement equipment and a supplied-price worksheet for the ventilation system. It does not calculate required ventilation, select an HRV/ERV or guarantee a particular indoor-air or energy result.
Sources and supported claims
DOE describes heat exchangers in HRV and ERV systems.
Source ↗ · national · Checked 2026-10-12
ERVs additionally transfer some water vapor.
Source ↗ · national · Checked 2026-10-12
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