Heat recovery ventilation

While both PIV (Positive Input Ventilation) and mechanical ventilation aim to improve indoor air quality, the key difference lies in heat recovery: PIV primarily focuses on air circulation by pushing fresh air into a space, while mechanical ventilation, particularly with heat recovery functionality, can not only bring in fresh air but also recover heat from the exhausted air, resulting in significant energy savings and better temperature control within a building; making heat recovery ventilation the more comprehensive option for optimal indoor air quality and energy efficiency.
Key points about PIV and mechanical ventilation:
PIV:
Function: Pushes fresh air into a space, primarily used to combat condensation and dampness by replacing stale air with drier outdoor air.
Advantages: Simple to install, effective at reducing humidity and potential mold growth.
Disadvantages: No heat recovery, may not adequately address air quality issues depending on outdoor air quality, can potentially increase heating costs in cold climates.
Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery:
Function: Extracts stale air and simultaneously brings in fresh air, while recovering heat from the exhausted air to preheat the incoming fresh air.
Advantages: Improves indoor air quality by filtering incoming air, reduces energy consumption by recovering heat, helps control humidity levels, and can be designed to address specific ventilation needs.
Disadvantages: More complex installation, potentially higher initial cost compared to PIV.
Complete advantages of heat recovery ventilation:
Energy Efficiency: Recovers heat from exhaust air, reducing heating and cooling costs significantly.
Improved Indoor Air Quality: Continuously brings in fresh, filtered air, removing pollutants and allergens.
Reduced Condensation: Helps manage humidity levels, preventing condensation and mold growth.
Comfort Control: Provides consistent ventilation, maintaining comfortable temperatures throughout the building.
Flexibility: Can be tailored to specific needs by adjusting ventilation rates based on occupancy and environmental conditions.
Minimal Maintenance: Modern systems require minimal upkeep with regular filter changes.