Holmes on Homes Podcast with Mike Holmes: Season 5 – Episode 8
How do ERVs (Energy Recovery Ventilators) Work? How Energy Recovery Ventilators Improve Your Home’s Air Quality
EPISODE AIRS JUNE 5
Did you know that ventilation systems can dramatically improve your home’s air quality and energy efficiency? Want to improve your home’s air quality and save on energy bills? ERVs (Energy Recovery Ventilators) are the key to achieving both. But how do they work, and how are they different from HRVs (Heat Recovery Ventilators)?
On this episode of the Holmes on Homes Podcast, Mike Holmes and Indoor Air Quality Experts Ken Nelson and Darryl Rebeschini, from Panasonic North America explain what ERVs are, how they differ from heat recovery ventilators (HRVs), and why they are essential for every home—especially if you’re looking to maintain a healthy and energy-efficient home.
One surprising fact you might not know: ERVs are not just about ventilation—they also help manage humidity, preventing mold and dust from building up. They help balance moisture inside your home, making it feel more comfortable and less damp, especially in areas with high humidity. You’ll also hear how Panasonic’s WhisperComfort 60, a standalone ERV unit, offers superior ventilation while saving you energy, making it the perfect solution for your home.
What if improving your home’s air quality could also reduce your energy costs? Tune in to find out!
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WHERE TO LISTEN
SPECIAL GUESTS
Did you know your indoor air could be 5 times more polluted than outdoor air? Panasonic’s ventilation, air purification and air conditioning expertise ensure our homes and workplaces have the freshest, cleanest air possible, removing polluted, unhealthy air and excess moisture for better indoor air quality and healthier living. Panasonic is a certified EnergyStar partner.
Behind The Scenes Photos
Click below to view Behind The Scenes photos
Ask Mike Holmes
Mike and his expert industry guests answer some of the most commonly asked questions.
1. Does opening windows improve indoor air quality?
Yes opening windows helps bring in fresh air and reduce indoor pollutants, but it’s not always enough. If the outdoor air is full of pollen, pollution, or humidity, you could be bringing in more problems than solutions. A better approach? Use a proper ventilation system with an HRV or ERV, and make sure you have good air filtration to keep the air in your home clean and fresh.
2. What is an ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilator) and how does it work?
An ERV is a ventilation system that brings in fresh air while keeping heat and moisture levels balanced. It helps remove stale indoor air and replaces it with filtered outdoor air—but without wasting energy. It’s a smart way to improve air quality and keep your home comfortable year-round.
3. What’s the difference between an ERV and an HRV?
Both ERVs and HRVs bring in fresh air and get rid of stale air, but the big difference? ERVs also help control humidity. That means if you live in a humid area, an ERV keeps moisture levels balanced, preventing mold and excess dampness. HRVs, on the other hand, just exchange heat—better for colder climates where you don’t want extra humidity inside.
4. Why should I install an ERV in my home?
If you want better air quality, balanced humidity, and lower energy bills, an ERV is a no-brainer. It helps prevent mold, reduces allergens, and keeps your home feeling fresh—all while making your heating and cooling system more efficient.
5. Do ERVs help reduce energy costs?
Absolutely! ERVs recover heat and moisture, so your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard. That means lower heating and cooling costs—and who doesn’t want to save money while breathing cleaner air?
6. How do ERVs improve indoor air quality?
They bring in fresh, filtered air while removing stale, polluted air. Plus, they help control humidity, which reduces mold, dust mites, and allergens. If you want a healthier home, proper ventilation is key—and an ERV does it right.
7. Where should an ERV be installed in a home?
An ERV is usually installed in the mechanical room, attic, or basement, but it depends on your home’s setup. The key is making sure it’s connected to your HVAC system properly so it can circulate fresh air throughout your entire home.
8. Is an ERV worth it for older homes?
Yes! Older homes usually have poor ventilation and higher humidity issues. Installing an ERV can fix stale air problems, improve efficiency, and help prevent mold and moisture damage—without major renovations.
9. What is the best ERV for my home?
The best ERV depends on your home’s size, climate, and air quality needs. I like Panasonic’s WhisperComfort 60—it’s a top-notch, energy-efficient ERV that’s easy to install and does a great job at keeping your air fresh and balanced. It’s also a standalone unit which means it doesn’t need to be installed with your existing duct system. I have one installed in my sunroom.
Looking for More Expert Tips and Advice?
Check out Mike’s Advice and Holmes on Homes Podcast Blog.
How To Improve Ventilation In Your Home
How To Choose An HVAC System For Your Home
House Too Humid? Here Is What To Do
7 Tips to Building a Healthy Home
About the Holmes on Homes Podcast with Mike Holmes
The Holmes on Homes Podcast, hosted by Mike Holmes, seasoned professional contractor and TV host, is your go-to source for expert insights on home improvement, safety, maintenance, skilled trades, and industry innovation. Each episode features expert guests and valuable takeaways, covering everything from choosing the right materials, aging in place, and electrical safety to the future of construction with 3D printing, pondscaping, and even raising healthy pets in a healthy home.
Whether it’s renovating for accessibility, improving indoor air quality, or tackling the skilled trades stigma, Mike and his guests break it all down with real talk, hard truths, and the no-nonsense advice that’s made him a trusted name in home improvement. Because when it comes to building better, it pays to Make It Right.
With over 40 years of experience, Mike provides practical advice and industry best practices, empowering homeowners to make informed decisions. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner, professional contractor, or planning a major renovation, this podcast is your go-to source for everything home-related.
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