We often talk about ventilation when it comes to comfort and health at home, but it’s not always easy to understand the difference between “HRV” and “air exchanger.” Both systems improve indoor air quality, but they don’t work the same way… and they don’t meet the same needs. Let’s take a closer look!
What is an air exchanger?
A basic air exchanger renews indoor air by removing stale air (loaded with moisture, pollutants, and odors) and replacing it with fresh air from outside.
Its role is to purify the air and ensure good ventilation in the home.
Limitation: in winter, the incoming air can be very cold, which requires more energy to heat it.
What is an HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator)?
The HRV goes a step further: it exchanges the heat from the outgoing air with the incoming air. In other words, it preheats the fresh outside air using the warm air you expel.
Its role: to ventilate and recover energy to reduce heat loss.
Advantage: more energy efficient, more economical in the long term, and particularly beneficial for Quebec winters.
So, which one should you choose?
For older homes where ventilation is the main requirement, an air exchanger may suffice.
For modern or well-insulated homes, an HRV is often the best choice: it keeps the air healthy while minimizing energy loss.
For people with sensitivities (asthma, allergies), both systems help improve air quality, but HRV offers superior comfort in winter.
Whether you choose an air exchanger or HRV, the important thing is to have a ventilation system that is suited to your home and lifestyle. Healthy air is not only comfortable, but also an investment in your health.
At Pétrole Pagé, our experts can assess your needs and advise you on the best option for your home.