Modern homes are built tight to save energy, which is great for bills but can trap stale, humid air. A heat-recovery ventilator (HRV) or energy-recovery ventilator (ERV) brings in fresh air while recovering most of the heat — and many newer BC homes require one.
How they work
An HRV continuously exchanges stale indoor air for fresh outdoor air, passing the two airstreams through a core that transfers heat from the outgoing air to the incoming air. So you get fresh air without dumping your heating energy outside.
HRV vs ERV
An HRV transfers heat; an ERV also transfers some moisture, which helps retain humidity in dry winters or reject it in humid summers. In much of BC's climate, an HRV is the common choice for managing winter humidity and fresh air.
Maintenance
Clean or replace the filters and wash the core periodically per the manual, and keep the intake and exhaust hoods outside clear. A neglected unit loses efficiency and air quality. Balanced airflow, set at commissioning, keeps it working right.