Mike Holmes Explains ERV vs. HRV: Which is Best for Your Home's Air Quality?
When it comes to home ventilation, ERVs (Energy Recovery Ventilators) and HRVs (Heat Recovery Ventilators) are often confused. Both systems work to improve indoor air quality by bringing in fresh air and exhausting stale air, but there's one key difference: humidity control.
Contractor and home expert Mike Holmes says: 'Your home is your biggest investment—make sure it breathes right. Choosing the wrong system could mean higher energy bills or even mould problems.'
Listen to Season 5, Episode 8 of the Holmes on Homes Podcast with Mike Holmes, 'How do ERVs (Energy Recovery Ventilators) Work? How Energy Recovery Ventilators Improve Your Home's Air Quality', launching Thursday, June 5 on all podcast streaming platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts, or watch the full episode on YouTube.
What's the Difference Between ERVs and HRVs?
ERVs don't just exchange air, they also transfer moisture. ERVs don't just exchange heat; they also transfer moisture. This makes them ideal for humid or mixed climates, where controlling indoor humidity is essential to prevent issues like mould, mildew, and the uncomfortable damp feeling.
ERVs help balance moisture levels by allowing some of the humidity from the incoming air to be absorbed by the outgoing air or vice versa. This makes them especially effective for areas with high humidity or year-round varying weather conditions.
HRVs, on the other hand, focus strictly on heat transfer. They are best suited for colder, drier climates where retaining indoor warmth is a priority. HRVs reduce heating costs during the winter months by transferring heat from the outgoing air to the incoming fresh air, but they do not affect humidity levels in the home.
Here's a quick breakdown: Use an ERV if you live in a humid or mixed climate. It helps keep your home comfortable year-round by managing both heat and humidity.
Use an HRV if you live in a cold, dry climate. It keeps warm air in during the winter while letting stale air out.
'Too much moisture is a silent killer in homes,' Mike adds. 'An ERV can save you from costly repairs down the line.'
Before choosing between an ERV and an HRV, consult a pro who understands your local climate and home setup. The right ventilation system will improve air quality, comfort, and even the longevity of your house.
Listen to Season 5, Episode 8 of the Holmes on Homes Podcast with Mike Holmes, 'How do ERVs (Energy Recovery Ventilators) Work? How Energy Recovery Ventilators Improve Your Home's Air Quality', launching Thursday, June 5 on all podcast streaming platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts, or watch the full episode on YouTube.
The Holmes on Homes podcast with Mike Holmes takes you inside the world of construction, renovations, and the skilled trades—breaking down what it really takes to build it right. But it's also about the bigger mission: helping people live better, stay safer, and feel more confident about their homes. With expert guests, practical tips, and real-life stories, Mike brings clarity, honesty, and decades of experience to every episode—whether you're swinging a hammer or just trying to understand the basics.
Holmes on Homes Podcast with Mike Holmes is available on all podcast streaming platforms, including Mike Holmes' YouTube Channel as well as Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Mike Holmes is a respected contractor and television personality who is dedicated to providing homeowners with practical advice and solutions for building and maintaining safe, high-quality homes. Known for his TV shows like Holmes on Homes and Holmes Makes It Right, Mike's expertise spans various aspects of home construction and renovation. A key area of his focus is HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems, as he understands the critical role they play in creating comfortable, energy-efficient, and healthy living environments.
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