ERV ROI Calculator

An energy recovery ventilator (ERV) is a device that transfers heat and moisture between the building exhaust airstream and the incoming outdoor ventilation air, reducing the energy required to condition outdoor air. ERVs use an enthalpy wheel or plate exchanger to precool incoming air in summer and preheat it in winter. Sensible effectiveness ratings for commercial ERVs typically range from 60–80%, meaning the device recovers 60–80% of the temperature difference between the two airstreams. Latent effectiveness is typically 50–70%. The energy savings depend on climate severity (measured by heating and cooling degree days), outdoor air volume, energy costs, and ERV efficiency. Simple payback periods for ERVs in commercial applications typically range from 2–5 years depending on climate zone and energy rates. ASHRAE Standard 90.1 requires energy recovery for many air systems above specific outdoor air thresholds.