Indoor air quality plays an important role in the comfort and health of Canadian homes, especially during our long, sealed-in winters. When windows stay shut for months, it’s easy for air to become stale, humid, and full of pollutants. Avalon Homes is committed to designing and building homes that not only save energy but also protect the wellbeing of its owners.
We integrate advanced Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV) systems into our builds. Given Alberta’s cold and dry winters, HRVs are an ideal choice for managing indoor humidity while delivering continuous fresh air. HRVs solve the challenge of keeping indoor air fresh and healthy without sacrificing the energy efficiency that airtight, modern homes demand.
Learn about the difference you’ll feel with our superior HRV indoor air quality systems.
What is an HRV System?
At its core, a Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV) system continuously replaces stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air while capturing and reusing the heat from outgoing air. This creates a steady supply of clean air without wasting energy.
- How HRVs Work: Inside the system, warm air from indoors passes through a heat exchanger that transfers its energy to the incoming fresh air. This keeps the temperature comfortable while providing new air circulation.
- System Components: HRVs include a central core unit, ductwork for air distribution, and control systems that work in concert with your HVAC setup.
- HRV vs. ERV: While HRVs transfer heat only, Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) also transfer humidity, which can be useful in certain climates. While most Alberta regions are best suited for HRVs, some localized microclimates with higher humidity may occasionally benefit from ERVs.
Avalon’s Approach
We select premium HRV units, size them correctly for each home, and ensure flawless installation, giving homeowners confidence in both comfort and efficiency. All installations follow local building codes and ventilation standards to ensure compliance and optimal performance.
Indoor Air Quality Benefits
Avalon Homes’ townhomes and custom builds are equipped with HRV systems that go beyond basic ventilation. They’re designed to actively protect and improve your indoor environment. Every home also undergoes third-party air quality verification to ensure performance.
- Pollutant Removal: HRVs reduce indoor pollutants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), allergens, and dust.
- Humidity Control: Proper ventilation helps prevent excess moisture, reducing the risk of mold while improving comfort.
- Oxygen Replenishment: Tightly sealed homes need oxygen exchange to maintain healthy indoor levels.
- Odor Management: From cooking smells to pet odors, HRVs keep air smelling clean and fresh.
For homeowners seeking more information on best practices, resources from the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) offer helpful guidance on indoor air quality and ventilation.
Avalon’s Commitment
We use advanced ventilation strategies, air testing, and healthy home certifications to guarantee indoor air quality.
Energy Efficiency Advantages
Modern homes should be efficient without sacrificing livability. Avalon’s Net Zero homes use high-efficiency HRVs to deliver both.
- Heat Recovery Efficiency: HRVs can capture up to 85% of the heat from outgoing air.
- Reduced Heating Costs: By recycling warmth, HRVs help cut down on winter utility bills.
- ENERGY STAR Certification: Avalon selects units that meet or exceed Canadian energy standards.
- Smart Controls: Automated systems adjust ventilation based on demand, further optimizing efficiency.
Homeowners may also qualify for Alberta energy-efficiency incentives or rebates when installing certified HRV systems, adding even more value to the investment.
Avalon’s Focus
We prioritize high-efficiency units and integrate them into each home’s performance plan. The difference you’ll feel with HRV indoor air quality is truly unmatched.
Health and Comfort Improvements
Beyond efficiency and fresh air, HRVs also improve overall wellness in your home. Here’s how:
- Respiratory Health: Cleaner air means fewer asthma triggers and better breathing.
- Sleep Quality: Consistent air circulation and controlled temperatures foster a more restful night’s sleep.
- Allergy Relief: HRVs filter incoming outdoor air, reducing pollen and allergen pollutants indoors.
- Year-Round Comfort: No matter the season, you’ll enjoy fresh, balanced, and easy-to-breathe air.
Avalon’s Design Advantage
We incorporate medical-grade filtration, allergen reduction strategies, and wellness-centered layouts for healthier homes.
Installation and Maintenance Considerations
Even the best HRV system requires proper installation and upkeep. Avalon ensures you get both.
- Proper Sizing: We calculate ventilation based on your home’s square footage and occupancy.
- Ductwork Design: Correct routing ensures maximum efficiency and comfort.
- Maintenance: According to CHBA and industry best practices, HRV filters should typically be cleaned every 3 months and replaced every 6–12 months, with the core and ducts inspected annually to maintain efficiency.
- Professional Installation: Certified technicians commission each system to guarantee peak performance.
Avalon’s Advantage
Our installation teams deliver precision, while our support staff helps homeowners maintain their systems long-term.
For Canadian homeowners, HRVs represent a smart investment in both health and sustainability. With Avalon Homes’ expertise in integrating HRVs into airtight, energy-efficient builds, families can enjoy a living environment that supports wellness, comfort, and environmental responsibility.
Ready to experience the benefits of advanced ventilation in your new home?