ERVs

Love the fresh air?

You know that feeling you get every spring when you throw open the window for the first time and take a deep breath? That sense of freshness, rebirth, renewal. The fresh air seems to bring your home back to life after being sealed up all winter. Now you can enjoy spring-like air in your home all year long, without having to watch your energy dollars fly out the window, thanks to the Aprilaire Energy Recovery Ventilator.

The Concerns

Formaldehyde, radon, household chemicals, odors, cigarette smoke, and other contaminants are present in our homes. These substances have become the focus of studies by builders, remodelers, heating and ventilating contractors, and even the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In fact, EPA studies prove that concentrations of toxic pollutants can be up to 10 times greater inside homes than outside, even in our smoggiest cities. And some of these pollutants have been known to cause headaches, nausea, and possibly even cancer.

The Cause

So where was this problem 20 years ago? In an effort to save energy costs, new homes are being better sealed to prevent indoor air from escaping. Energy efficient windows and doors with double weather stripping are being installed in both new homes and older homes that are being remodeled. Insulation is thicker and the use of air-tight vapor barriers are more prevalent. While this has made many homes more efficient, saving both money and energy, it has also made it nearly impossible for these homes to "breathe".

The Cure

The EPA, the National Association of Home Builders, many local building codes, and ASHRAE recommend adequate ventilation in homes. That means bringing the outside air in. But how do you do that without sacrificing your home's energy efficiency?

The Solution

The Aprilaire Energy Recovery Ventilator was developed using the concept of a mechanical device know as an air-to-air heat exchanger, or a heat recovery ventilator. In simple terms, it exchanges stale, polluted indoor air for fresh outdoor air with minimal energy loss.

Talk to your Gallion Heating and Cooling service expert for more our recommendations for your home.