HRV vs ERV: How to Choose the Right System for Your Build
By Graham Mann | Published: 12/23/2025
Compare HRV and ERV performance, costs, and climate fit to pick the right whole-house ventilation for energy-efficient, airtight homes.
HRV vs ERV: How to Choose the Right System for Your Build When building an airtight home, ventilation is key to maintaining air quality and energy efficiency. Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) and Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) are two systems designed to address this. Here’s the difference: - HRVs: Focus on transferring heat only, making them ideal for cold, dry climates. They remove excess indoor moisture during winter but don’t manage humidity in summer. - ERVs: Handle both heat and moisture transfer, making them better for humid or mixed climates. They help stabilize indoor humidity year-round. Key Takeaways: - Choose HRVs for cold, dry areas where moisture removal is a priority. - Opt for ERVs in humid or seasonal climates to manage both temperature and humidity. Quick Comparison: | Feature | HRV | ERV | |---| --- |---| | Heat Transfer | Yes | Yes | | Moisture Management | No | Yes | | Best Climate | Cold, dry winters | Humid summers, mixed climates | | Cost Range (Unit Only) |...
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