Where Should A Heat Recovery Ventilator Be Placed?
Like ERVs, an HRV should be installed by a certified HVAC professional. A few tips to remember when choosing where to place a heat recovery ventilator include:
- HRVs are commonly placed in basements, utility closets, and attics. They should be installed where the unit is easily accessible for servicing and filter replacements.
- Locate the HRV near an outside wall to keep the intake and exhaust runs to the outside as short as possible. The fresh air intake should be at least six feet away from any exhaust.
The best way to configure a residential ventilation system is to integrate an ERV or HRV with the heating and cooling ductwork, assuming the house has a forced-air system. This is the most economical approach. But HRVs can be installed with a heat pump, boiler, wood or pellet stove, fireplace, radiant floor heat, furnace, space heater, air conditioner, geothermal heat exchanger, or swamp cooler.