What is the primary function of a Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV)?

The primary function of a Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) is to recapture heat from exhaust air. An HRV works by exchanging stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air while transferring heat from the outgoing air to the incoming air, thereby maintaining the indoor temperature without wasting energy. This process helps to enhance energy efficiency, as it minimizes the need for additional heating in colder weather or cooling in warmer weather.

While improving air quality is an important benefit of using an HRV, it is not the primary purpose. The system also does not function solely to remove heat or to decrease humidity levels—it is primarily designed to recover and transfer heat between the two air streams, contributing to energy conservation and comfort in residential spaces.