Net-zero homes are designed to be extremely airtight—which is essential for energy efficiency but creates a challenge: how do you get fresh air inside without wasting energy heating or cooling it?
The answer is an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV).
How ERV Systems Work
ERV systems exchange stale indoor air for fresh outdoor air while transferring heat and moisture between the two airstreams. In summer, the outgoing cool air pre-cools the incoming hot air. In winter, the outgoing warm air pre-heats the incoming cold air.
The result: fresh, filtered air with 70-80% energy recovery. You get ventilation without the energy penalty of opening windows or running exhaust fans.
ERV vs. HRV: An ERV transfers both heat AND moisture, making it ideal for Texas's humid climate. An HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator) transfers only heat and is better suited for cold, dry climates.
Benefits of ERV in Net-Zero Homes
- Improved Air Quality: Continuous fresh air supply removes indoor pollutants, CO2, and odors
- Filtration: Incoming air passes through filters, removing pollen, dust, and allergens
- Humidity Control: ERVs help maintain comfortable indoor humidity levels year-round
- Energy Efficiency: 70-80% of energy is recovered from exhaust air
- Comfort: No drafts or temperature swings from opening windows
- Code Compliance: Meets ventilation requirements for tight building envelopes
Why Airtight Homes Need Mechanical Ventilation
In a conventional home, air leaks through gaps in the construction—bringing dust, humidity, and pollutants with it. This "natural" ventilation is uncontrolled and wastes energy.
Our net-zero homes are built airtight (less than 0.5 ACH), which eliminates uncontrolled air leakage. The ERV then provides controlled, filtered ventilation—you get exactly the fresh air you need, exactly where you need it.
The EPA estimates indoor air can be 2-5 times more polluted than outdoor air. With an ERV, every breath in your home passes through hospital-grade filtration.
ERV Installation in Our Homes
We integrate ERV systems into every net-zero home we build. The system works in tandem with your HVAC to provide:
- Continuous low-volume ventilation throughout the day
- Boost modes for cooking, cleaning, or gatherings
- Balanced pressure (no depressurization issues)
- Quiet operation you'll never notice
Breathe Better in a Net-Zero Home
Learn how we create homes with superior indoor air quality and energy efficiency.
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