Even while we sleep, we continuously release carbon dioxide (CO₂), moisture, heat, and body odors into the indoor environment.

Over seven hours, two sleeping adults may release approximately 150 liters of CO₂ and 0.4–0.8 liters of water vapor. Together, they also generate around 140–150 watts of metabolic heat. These are approximate estimates based on published technical references, and actual values vary with individual conditions.

Without adequate ventilation, CO₂, odors, and other indoor pollutants can accumulate. Excess moisture can increase the risk of condensation on windows and cold external walls. When building materials remain damp, conditions may become favorable for mould growth, potentially affecting building durability and indoor air quality.

An Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) continuously supplies filtered outdoor air while exhausting stale indoor air. By recovering energy from the outgoing air—and, when equipped with an enthalpy recovery core, transferring moisture between the incoming and outgoing air streams—an ERV helps reduce ventilation-related heating and cooling loads while supporting better indoor air quality.

A well-designed ERV system helps:

• Remove indoor pollutants: Dilute CO₂, odors, and other contaminants through controlled ventilation.

• Manage ventilation-related moisture: Transfer some moisture between air streams when an enthalpy recovery core is used.

• Improve incoming air quality: Filter outdoor air with suitable filtration.

• Reduce energy losses: Recover energy from exhaust air to help reduce the load associated with introducing outdoor air.

Fresh air is not just about breathing better. It is an essential part of creating a comfortable, healthy, and durable home.