In Canada, ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilation System) is particularly suitable for the following regions and building types because of its ability to regulate both temperature and humidity:
1. High humidity areas
Coastal provinces (such as coastal British Columbia and Nova Scotia): humid summers and rainy winters, ERV can effectively block external moisture from entering the room,
while discharging indoor moisture to prevent mold growth.
Great Lakes region (such as southern Ontario): hot and humid summers, ERV reduces the burden of air conditioning dehumidification through humidity exchange, keeping the room dry and comfortable.
2. Areas with significant temperature differences between winter and summer
Quebec, inland Ontario: cold and dry winters, hot and humid summers. ERV retains indoor humidity in winter (avoids excessive dryness) and blocks external moisture in summer,
balancing humidity throughout the year.
Atlantic provinces (such as New Brunswick): high humidity combined with severe cold, ERV's dual regulation can optimize energy efficiency.
3. Specific building types
New airtight houses: Canada has required new houses to install fresh air systems since 2017. ERV is more suitable for high-airtight houses because it can reduce the erosion of humidity
fluctuations on the building structure.
Large vacation homes/multi-room houses: For example, vacation homes in Banff and Whistler have a large number of residents and large spaces. ERV can uniformly manage humidity
in multiple areas to avoid local humidity.
High-end energy-saving houses: If integrated solutions such as Canada's HV whole-house ecosystem have been adopted, ERV can be linked to temperature and humidity control to
achieve a "constant temperature, constant humidity, and constant oxygen" environment.
4. Scenarios that require careful selection
Arid inland areas (such as the Alberta prairie): In extremely dry winters, HRV (heat recovery only) may be more suitable because ERV may further reduce indoor humidity.
Projects with limited budgets: The installation cost of ERV is usually about 20%-30% higher than that of HRV, and humidity requirements and economic efficiency need to be weighed.
Selection suggestions
Evaluate local climate: Prioritize areas with annual precipitation > 1000mm or winter relative humidity > 70%.
Consult professional organizations: Canadian HVAC companies can provide regional climate adaptation solutions (such as Coffey's customized systems).
Focus on future trends: In 2025, the HVAC industry will strengthen the integration of ERV and renewable energy (such as solar energy) to improve long-term benefits.
