Ottawa Home Indoor Air Quality
While it is often essential in most North American climates, especially in the depths of winter or the height of summer, to keep our heating and cooling systems running, this can negatively impact the indoor air quality in our homes.
As homes and heating and cooling systems become more and more efficient, the indoor air quality worsens. There is an optimum level of humidity which not only makes our home environment comfortable, but also protects the objects and people inside.
We have a range of Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) and Humidifiers which will help you maintain the ideal level of indoor air quality and comfort in your home. HRVs provide fresh air exchange and improved climate control, while also saving energy by reducing heating and cooling requirements.
Installation of a humidifier means optimized moisture levels in your home. Not only will you notice that the indoor air is more comfortable to breathe, but you will protect wooden furniture, for example. There is also research to suggest that humidifiers offer other health benefits including reduced risk of infection and easier breathing for those suffering from respiratory ailments.
HRV’s and ERV’s
- An HRV, or heat recovery ventilator, is a mechanical ventilation device that helps make the air in your home healthier, cleaner and more comfortable, replacing stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air. They also exchange heat between the supply and exhaust air streams to warm the fresh air that will be circulating through your home.
- ERV’s, or energy recovery ventilators, are a type of HRV that can exchange both heat and moisture. During the cooling season, they allow the incoming moist air to transfer moisture to the outgoing exhaust air. This can help reduce the load on your air conditioning system.
- We have the knowledge and experience to help you find the right system for your home.
- Some scenarios that may require an HRV are:
○ Poor indoor air quality
○ Excessive moisture (condensation or mould issues)
○ Upgrades to the building enclosure (new windows and doors)