Heating and cooling systems make up nearly 40% of energy consumption in commercial buildings. For property managers and landlords, cutting down on these costs while keeping tenants comfortable is a common challenge. Commercial energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) offer a practical solution that addresses both needs.
ERV systems recover heat and moisture from outgoing air and use it to precondition fresh air entering your building. This method enhances energy efficiency, improves air quality, and helps lower utility bills. In this blog, we’ll break down what is an energy recovery ventilation system, the benefits it offers, and what factors to consider when selecting one for your property.
What is an energy recovery ventilation system?
So, what is an energy recovery ventilation system and why is it important? In simple terms, a commercial energy recovery ventilator (ERV) system brings fresh air into your building while conserving energy. Unlike traditional HVAC systems, ERVs recover heat and moisture from exhaust air, using it to precondition the incoming air, which reduces the load on your HVAC system.
For example, in colder climates, the ERV system uses the warm outgoing air to preheat the cooler fresh air coming in. This minimizes the energy required to heat the incoming air, helping you save on utility costs. ERV systems are especially beneficial in regions with extreme temperatures or varying humidity levels, where they help maintain a comfortable indoor environment.
How does the process work?
The key component of an energy recovery ventilation system is the heat exchanger. This device transfers heat and moisture between the outgoing exhaust air and the incoming fresh air. As stale indoor air is expelled, the heat exchanger recovers energy from it and uses that energy to precondition the fresh air entering the building.
By preconditioning the air, the ERV system reduces the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do, which improves overall energy efficiency. ERV systems also regulate indoor humidity by transferring moisture between the air streams. This feature helps prevent your building from becoming too dry in winter or too humid in summer, ensuring tenant comfort while lowering energy consumption.
What is the difference between ERV and HRV ventilation?
ERV and HRV systems both aim to improve indoor air quality, but they work differently. ERV systems transfer both heat and moisture between air streams, while HRV systems only transfer heat. This makes an ERV system more suitable for climates with significant humidity changes, where controlling both temperature and moisture is crucial.
In regions with consistent humidity, HRV systems can be a more affordable option while still offering energy savings. However, in areas with extreme weather patterns, a commercial energy recovery ventilator (ERV) typically provides better efficiency. By controlling both heat and moisture, ERVs reduce the strain on your HVAC system and improve comfort at lower energy costs.
What are the benefits of ERV systems?
Understanding what is an energy recovery ventilation system also involves knowing the numerous benefits it provides for property managers. ERV systems not only help maintain a comfortable indoor environment but also bring substantial savings and sustainability advantages. From improved air quality to reduced energy costs, commercial energy recovery ventilator systems are designed to maximize efficiency and comfort for both tenants and property managers.
Improving indoor air quality
Energy recovery ventilators significantly improve indoor air quality by bringing in fresh outdoor air and filtering out pollutants. This is especially beneficial in multifamily properties, where high occupancy can lead to a buildup of allergens and contaminants. With an ERV, you ensure a constant supply of clean air, improving the overall health and comfort of your tenants.
For property managers, this means fewer tenant complaints about stuffy rooms or bad air quality. Cleaner air can also reduce the spread of illness, creating a healthier environment. Installing an ERV is a proactive way to ensure a healthier, happier tenant experience.
Energy efficiency
ERV systems are built for energy efficiency, recovering energy from outgoing air and reusing it to precondition the fresh air entering your building. This can reduce your energy consumption by up to 50%, significantly lowering your utility bills. By capturing energy that would otherwise be wasted, ERVs help you maintain a comfortable indoor environment without driving up costs.
Traditional HVAC systems don’t have this advantage and waste energy with every air exchange. ERVs, on the other hand, recycle this energy, making your building more efficient. Over time these energy savings add up and make ERVs a smart investment for property managers looking to reduce operational costs.
Cost savings
Because ERV systems lower your building’s overall energy consumption, they also reduce operational costs. For properties in climates with extreme weather, the savings can be particularly significant. Preconditioning the air before it enters your building minimizes the workload on your HVAC system, reducing energy consumption during peak demand.
Many property managers track these savings using building maintenance software, which helps them monitor energy use and forecast future costs. This proactive approach to managing energy expenses leads to long-term financial benefits. For large properties, the cost savings from an ERV can quickly outweigh the initial installation costs.
Sustainability
ERV systems also contribute to sustainability by reducing the energy required for heating and cooling, which lowers your building’s carbon footprint. This aligns with green building practices, helping property managers meet sustainability goals and attract eco-conscious tenants. Energy-efficient buildings are increasingly in demand, and an ERV system can be a key part of making your property more sustainable.
With facilities management tools, property managers can easily monitor the environmental impact of their ERV systems. Reducing energy consumption not only saves money but also helps you contribute to a greener future. Sustainability is not only good for the environment but also an attractive feature for prospective tenants.
Disadvantages of ERV systems
While ERV systems offer many benefits, it’s important to understand their potential drawbacks as well. The upfront cost, maintenance requirements, and need for specialized expertise can make them a more complex investment compared to traditional ventilation systems. For many property managers, the long-term savings and improved energy efficiency make these challenges worthwhile.
Cost
One drawback of ERV systems is the higher initial installation cost compared to traditional ventilation systems. The long-term savings in energy and utility costs often make up for this upfront expense. For larger properties, the savings are even more significant, as the energy recovery process becomes more efficient with scale.
Despite the higher initial cost, many property managers find the long-term benefits outweigh the investment. It’s important to consider the overall lifecycle cost of an ERV, including the savings on energy bills. Consulting an HVAC professional can help you assess whether an ERV is the right investment for your property.
Maintenance
ERV systems require regular maintenance to ensure they continue running efficiently. Filters should be checked and cleaned every few months, and the heat exchanger needs to be inspected annually. Neglecting maintenance can reduce the system’s efficiency, leading to higher energy costs and potential repairs down the line.
Property managers can streamline this process by using a building management system to track maintenance schedules. This helps ensure the system is always performing at its best. Regular maintenance is key to maximizing the energy savings and longevity of your ERV system.
Specialized expertise
ERV systems often require specialized expertise for installation and ongoing maintenance. Finding qualified technicians familiar with ERV technology can sometimes be challenging. However, working with the right professionals ensures the system is installed correctly and maintained properly.
When selecting an ERV system, it’s important to choose a contractor with experience in both HVAC and energy recovery systems. This expertise helps avoid potential issues and ensures the system performs as expected. While specialized expertise can add to costs, it also guarantees the best possible outcome for your property.
Things to consider when picking an ERV system
When selecting an ERV system, it’s essential to consider several factors to make the right choice. Start by assessing the size of your building and its specific air exchange requirements. Larger buildings will need more powerful systems to ensure efficient air circulation and effective energy recovery.
Make sure that the ERV system you choose is compatible with your existing HVAC setup. It’s also wise to prioritize systems with high-quality filters to maintain clean air and improve indoor air quality. Consulting an HVAC expert can help ensure the system meets your property’s unique needs and integrates smoothly.
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One client monitored 146 priority targets resulting in savings of $630,000 and a global reduction of 22 million kW across 12 sites.
