The Difference Between ERV and HRV (and Why It Matters in Cold Climates)
By Graham Mann | Published: 12/25/2025
Compare ERV and HRV for cold climates — learn how each handles heat and humidity, plus key sizing, installation, and maintenance tips.
The Difference Between ERV and HRV (and Why It Matters in Cold Climates) When choosing between an ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilator) and an HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator) for your home, the key difference lies in how they handle humidity. Both systems improve indoor air quality and save energy by exchanging stale indoor air for fresh outdoor air while recovering heat. However: - HRVs transfer only heat, making them ideal for homes with high indoor humidity (e.g., from cooking or showering). They help prevent condensation and mold but can lead to overly dry air in winter. - ERVs transfer both heat and moisture, maintaining comfortable indoor humidity levels. This is especially helpful in cold climates where outdoor air is very dry. Quick Comparison | Feature | HRV | ERV | |---| --- |---| | Focus | Heat transfer only | Heat + moisture transfer | | Best for | High indoor humidity | Dry indoor air | | Winter Effect | Dries indoor air | Retains indoor humidity | | Efficiency | Up to 95% heat ...
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