In the past, building owners and facilities managers reduced fresh air levels to save on energy costs at the expense of health. This reduction is no longer necessary due to the increased availability and code requirements for Air to Air Energy Recovery Ventilation (ERV). Air to Air Heat Exchangers reduce fresh air ventilation costs by up to 80% by using energy from building exhaust air. In addition to lowering operating expenses, ERV’s help control humidity and often pay for themselves by lowering heating and air conditioning capital equipment costs.
Without an energy recovery solution in place, air that is treated for temperature and humidity will simply leave a building. The work that has already been done to heat, cool, humidify or dehumidify the space will need to be repeated for the incoming fresh air multiple times per hour. Implementing an ERV solution helps building owners meet ventilation code, lower operating costs, and improve indoor air quality.
Humidity
On warm humid days, humidity contained in fresh outdoor air often overpowers the air conditioning system and creates a challenge for facility managers to keep tenants comfortable. If humidity is a concern, select an air to air ERV that utilizes an enthalpy transfer media, such as an energy recovery wheel, to overcome his challenge. Energy recovery wheels remove up to 80 percent of the humidity from the fresh air before it contacts the air conditioning coil; the result is air that is cool, comfortably dry, and does not contribute to the formation of mould and mildew.
Productivity
According to the EPA, a school’s indoor environment can have a significant impact on children’s learning and productivity. Studies have shown links between poor IAQ and children’s health problems, reduced performance scores and increased absenteeism. Similarly, the productivity of a company’s workforce is dramatically impacted when forced to work in a less-than-ideal environment. ERV’s deliver affordable fresh air to ensure a healthy and productive environment without the energy penalty historically attributed to fresh air.
Health
With half of all illnesses attributable to indoor airborne contaminants, the EPA has declared IAQ a public health priority. Federal, state, and local building codes have followed suit in mandating minimum outdoor air ventilation rates based upon the size and function of buildings. ERV is the only ventilation strategy that can simultaneously reduce the levels of all indoor pollutants for health and reduce the size and operating cost of the HVAC system.
Cost Savings
It is important to note that including an ERV in your HVAC design provides substantial savings, both up front and over time. A facility manager can expect minimal or no added first cost to installing an ERV in a retrofit or new construction project. Additionally, first cost may be offset with energy recovery incentives offered by many utilities and local, state, and federal governments.
Contact Armcor Air Solutions to discuss how an ERV could be your next ventilation solution
Armcor Air Solutions are one of Australia’s most experienced ERV manufacturers and can create a custom system for your next project.
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