Installation Scheme of a Typical ERV for a Three-Bedroom Condo

If you own a three-bedroom condo and want to boost indoor air quality (IAQ), cut energy costs, and maintain consistent comfort—an Energy Recovery Ventilation (ERV) system is a game-changer. Unlike single-room ventilation solutions, a properly installed ERV works seamlessly with your condo’s layout to ventilate every living space, from bedrooms to the kitchen and bathroom. But how do you install an ERV in a three-bedroom condo, and what does the typical scheme entail? In this blog, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step installation plan, key considerations for condo living, and tips to ensure your ERV performs optimally for years to come.

First: Why an ERV for a Three-Bedroom Condo?

Three-bedroom condos often balance comfort and space—but they also face unique ventilation challenges. With multiple occupants, cooking areas, and enclosed spaces (like bedrooms and closets), stale air, excess moisture, and pollutants can build up quickly. Traditional ventilation (opening windows, exhaust fans) either wastes energy (letting conditioned air escape) or fails to circulate fresh air evenly. An ERV solves this by exchanging heat and moisture between incoming fresh air and outgoing stale air, keeping your condo’s temperature stable while ensuring every room gets clean, filtered air. It’s ideal for condos because it’s compact, duct-friendly, and designed to work with limited space—no need for bulky equipment that takes over storage areas.

Pre-Installation Prep: Assess Your Condo & Choose the Right ERV

Before diving into installation, take these critical steps to set yourself up for success—especially important for condo dwellers, who may face restrictions or space limitations.

1. Check Condo Rules & Permits

Most condo associations have guidelines for mechanical installations, including ventilation systems. Before starting, review your condo’s bylaws to ensure your ERV installation doesn’t violate any rules (e.g., exterior duct placement, noise restrictions). You may also need a building permit from your local municipality—ask your HVAC contractor or condo management to confirm requirements to avoid costly rework.

2. Size Your ERV Correctly

For a three-bedroom condo (typically 1,000–1,500 square feet), you’ll need an ERV sized for your space. The key metric is Air Changes per Hour (ACH): aim for 0.35–0.5 ACH for residential spaces (meaning the ERV replaces 35–50% of your condo’s air every hour). A professional HVAC technician can calculate your exact needs based on square footage, ceiling height, and number of occupants—avoid undersizing (which leads to poor ventilation) or oversizing (which wastes energy).

3. Choose the Right ERV Location

In a three-bedroom condo, space is premium—so pick a location that’s accessible, out of the way, and allows for easy duct routing. Common spots include: A utility closet (near the furnace or water heater, if available)The attic (if accessible and properly insulated)A basement (if your condo has one)Avoid installing the ERV in living areas (like bedrooms or the living room) to minimize noise—most ERVs operate quietly, but placing them in a utility space further reduces sound disruption.

Step-by-Step Installation Scheme for a Three-Bedroom Condo ERV

While we always recommend hiring a licensed HVAC professional (condo installations often require precise ductwork and electrical work), here’s a breakdown of the typical installation process for a three-bedroom condo ERV.

Step 1: Mount the ERV Unit

Start by securing the ERV unit to the chosen location (e.g., utility closet wall or attic floor). Ensure the unit is level and anchored securely to prevent vibration (which can cause noise). Leave at least 12 inches of space around the unit for maintenance (e.g., filter changes, repairs) and to allow for proper airflow.

Step 2: Route Exhaust & Supply Ducts

ERVs require two sets of ducts: one for exhaust (removing stale air) and one for supply (bringing in fresh air). For a three-bedroom condo, route the ducts strategically to cover all key areas:

• Exhaust Ducts: Run ducts from the ERV to high-humidity, high-pollutant areas: the kitchen (near the stove), each bathroom (near the shower/tub), and any other stale-air hotspots (e.g., a laundry nook). Keep exhaust ducts as short and straight as possible to maximize airflow—avoid sharp bends, which can reduce efficiency.

• Supply Ducts: Route supply ducts from the ERV to living areas that need fresh air: all three bedrooms, the living room, and the dining area. Use branch ducts to split the airflow evenly—each bedroom should get adequate fresh air without overwhelming smaller spaces.

For condos with existing ductwork (e.g., for HVAC), your technician may be able to tie the ERV ducts into the existing system to save time and space. If not, use flexible or rigid ducts that fit neatly in walls, ceilings, or closets to avoid disrupting your condo’s layout.

Step 3: Install Outdoor Intake & Exhaust Vents

The ERV needs access to outdoor air, so install two vents on an exterior wall of your condo (away from windows, doors, and HVAC exhausts to avoid drawing in polluted air):

• Fresh Air Intake Vent: Mount this vent on a side of the building with clean, unobstructed air (avoid areas near garbage bins, dryer vents, or busy streets).

• Exhaust Vent: Mount this vent a few feet away from the intake vent (at least 3 feet) to prevent exhausted stale air from being drawn back into the condo.

Use weatherproof vents with screens to keep out pests, debris, and rain. Ensure the vents are sealed tightly to prevent air leaks.

Step 4: Connect Electrical & Controls

ERVs require a 120V electrical connection (similar to a standard outlet). A licensed electrician will wire the unit to a dedicated circuit (to avoid overloading) and install a wall-mounted control panel. The control panel lets you adjust fan speed, set ventilation schedules, and monitor the ERV’s performance—look for a model with a humidity sensor, which automatically adjusts ventilation based on your condo’s moisture levels (perfect for bathrooms and kitchens).

Step 5: Install Filters & Test the System

Insert high-efficiency filters into the ERV (most units use MERV 8–12 filters, which capture dust, pollen, and pet dander). Then, your technician will test the system to ensure:    Airflow is balanced (supply and exhaust ducts are moving air evenly).There are no air leaks in the ducts or around the unit.The ERV is exchanging heat and moisture correctly (e.g., warming incoming air in winter, cooling it in summer).Controls are working properly (fan speed, humidity settings, on/off functions).Key Installation Considerations for CondosCondo living comes with unique challenges—keep these in mind to ensure a smooth installation and optimal ERV performance:

1. Noise Control

Condos have shared walls, so choose a quiet ERV (look for models with a noise rating of 30–40 decibels, similar to a quiet conversation). Install vibration pads under the unit and insulate ducts to reduce sound transmission to neighboring units.

2. Ductwork Limitations

If your condo has limited wall/ceiling space for ducts, opt for a compact ERV with flexible ducts. Your technician may also use “low-profile” ducts that fit in tight spaces (e.g., between ceiling joists) without disrupting your condo’s aesthetics.

3. Maintenance Access

Ensure the ERV unit and filters are easily accessible for regular maintenance (filters should be changed every 3–6 months). Avoid installing the unit in hard-to-reach areas (e.g., a cramped attic crawl space) that will make upkeep a hassle.

Post-Installation: Maintain Your ERV for Long-Term Performance

To keep your ERV running efficiently in your three-bedroom condo, follow these simple maintenance tips:

• Change filters every 3–6 months (or more often if you have pets or allergies).

• Clean the heat exchanger annually to remove dust and debris (hire a professional for this).

• Check outdoor vents regularly to ensure they’re not blocked by snow, leaves, or debris.

• Test the controls monthly to ensure the ERV is working as intended.

Final Thoughts: Is This Installation Scheme Right for Your Condo?

A typical ERV installation for a three-bedroom condo is a straightforward process when done by a professional—one that pays off in better air quality, lower energy bills, and more consistent comfort. By following this scheme, you’ll ensure your ERV is installed correctly, fits your condo’s layout, and complies with any association rules.

Remember: every condo is unique—your installation may vary slightly based on your space, existing ductwork, and condo guidelines. Always consult a licensed HVAC technician who has experience with condo ERV installations—they’ll tailor the scheme to your specific needs and ensure a seamless, code-compliant process.

Ready to upgrade your three-bedroom condo’s ventilation? An ERV installation is a smart investment in your home’s comfort and your family’s health.

Got questions about ERV installation for your condo? Drop a comment below—we’re here to help!