What is a characteristic of Energy Recovery Ventilation systems (ERVs)?

Energy Recovery Ventilation systems (ERVs) are designed to enhance energy efficiency by transferring both heat and moisture between incoming and outgoing air streams. This characteristic effectively allows the system to regulate humidity levels while maintaining comfortable temperatures within a building. By transferring energy, ERVs help to reduce the heating and cooling loads imposed on HVAC systems, leading to improved indoor air quality and reduced energy consumption.

The ability to manage both thermal energy and humidity is especially beneficial in climates that experience significant variations in temperature and humidity throughout the year. This dual transfer capability distinguishes ERVs from other types of ventilation systems, which may only handle temperature without considering moisture transfer, thus making them more versatile for various applications.

In contrast, the other provided options do not align with the primary functionality of ERVs. For example, the notion that they use only plastic ductwork is inaccurate, as ERVs can utilize a variety of duct materials based on design requirements. Claiming they are limited to residential applications is also misleading; ERVs are utilized in both residential and commercial settings. Lastly, while ERVs typically employ filters to improve air quality, they are not characterized by the absence of filters, contradicting their design that includes airflow purification.