VC-21A-C054 - High Performance Heat- and Energy-Recovery Ventilators: What to Consider when Selecting Equipment

Selection of heat and energy recovery ventilator (HRV/ERV) equipment is increasingly important yet remains a challenging task due to the complexities in characterizing HRV/ERV performance. Traditional performance rating methods in the United States account for only the effectiveness of the HRV/ERV with respect to recovery of sensible and latent energy. This neither accurately captures nor fully describes the complete picture of HRV/ERV performance, which should ideally account for all energy consumption of the HRV/ERV product in addition to the energy recovered. This paper reviews a range of test procedures to compare how they assess each of those HRV/ERV attributes. The review addresses what is and what is not measured in the procedures to provide an understanding of how to compare products evaluated under different ratings/certifications. The review examines both test procedures and certification ratings, including ASHRAE Standard 84 and AHRI Standard 1060, CSA C439 and HVI 920, EN 308, Passive House Institute (PHI), and Passive House US (PHIUS). Informed by a test and rating comparison, the paper addresses how rating metrics can be used to select HRV/ERV equipment and what the market for high performance HRV/ERV products currently includes. Finally, the paper discusses design considerations for maximizing energy savings from HRV/ERV, including considerations for design for heating-dominant climates, along with next steps in the push for high efficiency HRV/ERV.