Fresh Air Ventilation Help!

16 years ago

Hi, it's me again. You guys are the best. I have to make final decisions today, so I have another one for you.

2000 sq ft. new const. ranch in VA, walkout basement, Trane XR15 HP 3 ton.

We have been given 2 options for fresh air intake due to the 2x6 tight construction. Budget is tight. Any opinions on either of these?

Fantech HRV # VHR1404

Aprilaire ventilation kit model 8126

It seems the HRV is going to be twice the cost. Just wondering if it's a "must" for efficiency reasons, or if the Aprilaire damper options will do the job with little loss. Trying to focus on cost recovery and what's worthwhile.

I have heard of people installing their own aftermarket Broan units.

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Comments (4)

creek_side
16 years ago
I think you are too far south for an HRV. You need an ERV if you have hot, humid summers, otherwise you will pump too much moisture into the home during the cooling season.

An ERV also helps keep the indoor humidity from dropping too far when ventilating in the winter.
wear_your_baby
Original Author
16 years ago
I was wondering about that, ERV vs. HRV, based on the map chart I saw on another thread.

Do you think the Aprilaire thing will be good enough? That's how we're leaning, unless it will mean a huge cost in efficiency or unit life.
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creek_side
16 years ago
I would be concerned about it pressurizing the house. There appears to be no exhaust vent, but maybe I am missing something.

We have an Aprilaire 8100 ERV. You should be able to buy one for under $1,000. It is self installable and does not have to be connected to the HVAC system, although it can be.

It has no controls, which I don't like. It is designed to run all the time. Controls can be added if you are handy.

It needs two six inch holes in the wall for the duct work. You could have the builder put those in for a later installation. The installation manual is available for download.

Your HVAC company shouldn't be proposing HRVs if you are truly in ERV territory. That is a bit of a red flag, to me.
energy_rater_la
16 years ago
Have you had your home tested to determine if fresh air
intake is necessary?
A simple blower door test will determine air changes per hour.

Lots of folks/builders say the house is 'tight'
few actually test to see the ach per hr.

before putting the cart before the houe...test.

when homes are less than .35 ach per hour fresh air
makeup is needed. above that....no need for it.

there are cheaper ways to introduce fresh air...
filter grill to exterior..duct to return, so that air
is clean and cooled/heated before entering house.
cost .....less than half or erv/hrv.

best of luck.