If you’ve ever felt like your home could use a little more fresh air but didn’t want to open all the windows, an ERV might be just what you need. An Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) fits into your existing HVAC system and acts as an air exchanger that brings fresh air into your home without the energy loss that comes when you open your windows. ERVs are quickly gaining popularity for a good reason—they improve your indoor air quality, save energy, and create a more comfortable living space. 

How can an ERV make a difference in your home? Here’s what Harrisburg's heating and air conditioning experts at WM Buffington have to say about this handy and relatively affordable system.

How Does an ERV Work?

The ERV uses two fans—one pulling in fresh outdoor air and the other blowing out stale indoor air. Inside the unit, a special core transfers moisture from the incoming air to the outgoing air, and heat from the outgoing air to the incoming air. By conditioning the outside air as it is pulled in, this process helps to regulate temperature and humidity, meaning the outside air entering your home is pre-conditioned to match your home’s climate.

The result? You get fresh, filtered air without the energy costs of constantly adjusting for outside weather. 

Benefits of an ERV 

The ERV system offers a lot of advantages, including: 

1. Improved Air Quality
   An ERV constantly brings in fresh air from outside while removing stale indoor air, which helps to keep your home’s air quality high. If you or your family members suffer from allergies, asthma, or other respiratory issues, this constant airflow helps reduce the buildup of pollutants, allergens, and humidity. It’s like having an air purifier that works for your whole house efficiently rather than portable versions that purify individual rooms.
2. Energy Efficiency
   The real standout feature of an ERV is its ability to transfer heat or cool air respectively from the outgoing air to the incoming air. This means your heating or cooling system doesn’t have to work as hard to adjust the temperature when fresh air enters your home which therein uses less energy. 
3. Humidity Control
   Another thing that sets an ERV apart from other ventilation systems is its ability to balance humidity levels. In colder months, it helps to bring in fresh air without introducing too much moisture, preventing that uncomfortable dry air feel. In warmer months, it can remove excess humidity, keeping your home feeling cool and comfortable without overworking your air conditioner.
4. Reduced Energy Costs
   Because of the energy exchange process built into an ERV, your heating and cooling system doesn’t have to work as hard to regulate the temperature in your home. This leads to lower energy consumption and ultimately lower utility bills. In this way, an ERV can help extend the lifespan of your HVAC system and save you money on maintenance costs.
5. Seamless Integration

An ERV doesn’t require a complete overhaul of your current HVAC system, but rather works within your existing setup to boost efficiency and improve indoor air quality. It uses the ventilation ducts that are already in place, meaning no costly structural upgrades. 

Can I Install an ERV? 

An ERV can be a game-changer for a wide variety of homes and buildings, especially those that have a more airtight construction. If your home is well-insulated or has newer windows that seal tightly, it’s likely that fresh air doesn’t circulate as easily as it should. This is where an ERV really shines. By introducing controlled ventilation, an ERV will ensure you get fresh, filtered air without wasting energy.

Homes in areas with extreme temperatures—either very hot summers or harsh winters—also benefit from an ERV. It helps maintain indoor comfort by conditioning the incoming air, so your HVAC system doesn’t have to do all the work. 

For larger commercial buildings or office spaces, an ERV can provide excellent air circulation while helping to keep operating costs down, including in spaces with a lot of people, like offices or schools, where good ventilation is critical for both comfort and health. Whether you're in a suburban home, a new build, or a well-insulated property, an ERV is an energy-efficient option for improving your indoor air quality. 

Upgrade Your Space With an ERV

Installing an ERV isn’t a DIY project—it requires precise installation to ensure proper airflow and integration with your HVAC system. WM Buffington brings years of experience to every installation, so you can rest easy knowing the job will be done correctly. We also offer comprehensive maintenance services to keep your ERV running smoothly year-round. This includes regular cleaning, checks, and servicing to ensure it continues providing fresh, filtered air without interruption.

If you’re considering an ERV for your home or business, WM Buffington is here to guide you through the process, from selecting the right model to expert installation and ongoing support. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help improve the air you breathe while boosting your energy efficiency!