HRV: what is it and why should you have one?
Proper ventilation is a crucial aspect of maintaining a healthy and functional home. Ventilation should allow dry, fresh air to enter your home while getting rid of moist, stale air – which builds up in your home from bodies, cooking, showers etc. To achieve effective ventilation inside your home, the use of a ‘Heat Recovery Ventilation’ system, is highly recommended.
Understanding HRV
In simpler terms, a HRV system is a smart ventilation system designed to bring in fresh air 24/7 without significant energy losses. Unlike simply opening windows, which introduces uncontrolled temperature variations, a HRV system helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature.
Why Do You Need It?
1. Temperature control
Opening windows for ventilation can lead to the introduction of fresh air at vastly different temperatures, requiring additional heating or cooling. A HRV system ensures a continuous supply of fresh air while also stabilising the indoor temperature.
2. Air filtration
The HRV system goes beyond temperature control; it also filters the incoming fresh air. Basic filters capture coarse dust particles like pollen and fog, while more advanced filters target fine-medium-sized particles, including mould spores, dust, bacteria, and carbon soot. This feature is particularly beneficial for individuals with allergies.
3. Allergy relief
If you suffer from allergies, the HRV system provides a regulated and filtered airflow, reducing the presence of allergens in your home.
4. Personalised filtration options
For those with specific sensitivities, HRV systems offer customisable filter options, such as HEPA filters and carbon filters, tailored to individual needs.
How It Works
It’s important to note, this system works best when all the windows and doors are closed and the house is as airtight as possible. This prevents unfiltered and unregulated air from entering the house.
The HRV system has extraction points strategically installed throughout the house, in particular, in wet areas and the kitchen, where moist and stale air is extracted and sent to the HRV system. Fresh air outlets, resembling vents in the floor or ceiling, are also placed throughout the house to distribute the filtered and regulated air coming in from the HRV.
Worth The Investment
While the cost of a HRV system can range from $12,000 to $20,000 per house, and potentially more for larger homes, the investment in health and comfort is invaluable. The benefits of improved air quality, temperature regulation, and allergy relief justify the cost for those seeking a healthier and more comfortable living environment.
In conclusion, considering the numerous advantages it offers, investing in a HRV system proves to be a wise choice for those prioritising health, comfort, and sustainable living in their homes.
Image sourced from www.stiebel-eltron.com.au