HRV vs ERV in Canada: What Builders Need to Know About Ventilation and Humidity Control

If you’re a builder working on modular, prefab, or high-performance homes in Canada, the choice of ventilation system plays a critical role—not just in meeting code, but in delivering healthier, more durable buildings. Two common options are HRVs (Heat Recovery Ventilators) and ERVs (Energy Recovery Ventilators). At a glance, they may seem similar, but the differences are more important than most realize—especially in humid regions like British Columbia.

When comparing HRV vs ERV in Canada, it’s important for builders to consider both climate and building style—especially in humid regions like British Columbia where energy-efficient homes are more susceptible to moisture buildup.

The Key Difference: Heat vs Heat + Humidity

Both HRVs and ERVs exchange stale indoor air for fresh outdoor air, recovering heat from outgoing air to reduce energy loss. But only ERVs go a step further—they also transfer moisture between the incoming and outgoing air streams.

This added humidity control is especially beneficial in regions with damp winters or humid summers, which describes much of Canada. As homes become more airtight and energy-efficient, managing indoor moisture becomes just as important as managing temperature.

Why Humidity Control Makes a Big Difference

In energy-efficient homes—especially those built to modern airtight standards—humidity can build up quickly if not properly managed. Without the right ventilation strategy, this excess moisture leads to a host of problems: mold growth, poor air quality, damaged materials, and unhappy homeowners. That’s where ERVs offer a clear advantage. Unlike HRVs, which only transfer heat, ERVs help regulate indoor humidity year-round, creating a healthier, more durable home environment.

Mold Prevention

Moisture is a silent threat to new construction. Without proper ventilation, humidity can build up inside the home, leading to condensation on windows, behind walls, and in attic spaces. Over time, this can lead to mold growth—something no homeowner wants and no builder wants a call-back for. ERVs help reduce this risk by balancing indoor humidity, even during winter months when windows stay shut.

Healthier Indoor Air

Excess humidity creates an ideal environment for allergens, mold spores, and dust mites. Balanced moisture improves overall air quality, supporting respiratory health and comfort for the people living inside. Builders who focus on air quality can offer a clear value-add to clients—especially as awareness around IAQ continues to grow.

Improved Year-Round Comfort

In the colder months, HRVs can cause indoor air to become uncomfortably dry, leading to itchy skin, dry eyes, and static. ERVs help maintain a more consistent indoor climate, reducing the strain on heating and cooling systems while making the home feel better year-round.

Protection for Building Materials

High humidity can damage flooring, insulation, trim, drywall, and even structural framing over time. Using an ERV protects your build from long-term moisture-related issues, preserving the quality of your work and improving client satisfaction over the long term.

HRV vs ERV Canada: Which System Is Better for Your Climate?

While HRVs still have their place in cold, dry climates, ERVs are often the better fit for most Canadian regions, especially along the coast or in areas with mixed or humid conditions. British Columbia, for example, experiences high humidity for much of the year. In these environments, ERVs are better equipped to keep moisture levels in check—supporting both health and building durability.

In fact, many builders across Canada are shifting to energy recovery ventilation systems as a future-ready choice that aligns with step code compliance and high-performance building standards.

Why Builders Love Ductless ERVs

For modular, prefab, or space-conscious designs, ductless ERVs offer an ideal solution. Builders no longer need to worry about bulky ductwork or tight mechanical rooms.

• Compact, wall-mounted units

• Quick installation—no ducting required

• Perfect for tight spaces or retrofits

• Up to 82% sensible heat recovery efficiency

• CSA-certified for peace of mind

Ductless ERVs are helping builders deliver on performance and comfort without sacrificing time or budget.

Final Thoughts

As a builder, the decisions you make during construction have long-term consequences for comfort, air quality, and building longevity. In many Canadian climates, especially humid or mixed regions, ERVs offer real advantages over HRVs. They help prevent mold, support healthier living conditions, and protect the materials and craftsmanship that go into every project.

For builders looking for smart, simple ventilation solutions, ductless ERVs offer flexibility, code compliance, and proven performance.