Product Review: Heat-Recovery Ventilators & Energy-Recovery Ventilators

Tighter homes and increasingly stringent residential energy-use standards put whole-house heat- and energy-recovery ventilators in the spotlight.

Starting in 2011, all new homes built to comply with the federal Energy Star Qualified Homes standard—perhaps 200,000 units if the NAHB’s forecast for that year holds true—will be required to provide an adequate amount of controlled, fresh-air ventilation as part of a comprehensive energy conservation and indoor air quality goal.

 

New Products

  • Pennsylvania Program Would Make Geothermal More Affordable

    Feb. 15--Pennsylvania is making it cheaper for people to install heating and cooling systems that tap the earth's energy.

     
  • goodman ac shoot

    HVI-certified Heat Recovery Ventilator From Goodman

    The HVI-certified HRV series offers up to 92% heat recovery, according to the manufacturer, with cfm rates from 123 to 247 to accommodate various residential conditions and requirements. The units feature a 22/24-gauge galvanized steel cabinet that is fully insulated with 1-inch high-density polystyrene foam to help prevent condensation; other features include washable, electrostatic panel-type air filters and factory-balanced EBM motors with permanently lubricated sealed motor bearings. The aluminum core is configured for efficient cross-flow ventilation and to withstand extreme temperatures. An optional dehumidistat and air-quality sensor are available. 877.254.4729.

     
  • VHR 1404 Heat-Recovery Ventilator From Fantech

    The HVI-certified VHR 1404 heat-recovery ventilator is rated to recover and exchange 62% of exhaust air heat. The unit is equipped with two factory-balanced EBM motors with permanently lubricated sealed bearings for durability and low maintenance. An aluminum heat-recovery core is configured for efficient cross-flow ventilation; washable electrostatic panel-type air filters enable easy care. A preset defrost sequence automatically activates to protect the unit in extreme cold temperatures while maintaining fresh air intake and heat exchange. 800.747.1762.

     
 

Product Review: Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters consume less energy, take up less space, and are easier to install than traditional tanks.

Offering up to 34% greater efficiency than traditional units, on-demand water heaters are becoming a green building staple.

 

Energy Management Systems Allow Homeowners to Monitor, Control Energy Usage

Available in a range of capability levels, sustainability dashboards give consumers real-time feedback and control of their home's energy.

 
 

Residential Photovoltaic Systems Continue to Improve

Today’s photovoltaics are smaller, more efficient, less expensive, and better looking than ever.

Geothermal heating and cooling systems are a viable alternative to traditional HVAC

Geothermal heating and cooling systems are earning their reputations as a viable alternative to traditional HVAC.

 

HVAC