HRVs in Alberta Homes: When Better Ventilation Helps Your Furnace Run Better

During winter in Central Alberta, homes are sealed tightly to keep heat in. While this improves energy efficiency, it can also trap stale air, moisture and airborne pollutants inside. This is where Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) play an important role. When properly installed, HRVs support indoor air quality while also helping your Red Deer furnace operate more efficiently. 

What an HRV Does in a Heating System 

An HRV exchanges stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air while recovering heat. As warm air is exhausted from the home, its heat is transferred to incoming fresh air, reducing energy loss. This allows fresh air circulation without placing unnecessary strain on your furnace. 

In cold climates like Red Deer, HRVs help balance ventilation and heating demands. Without proper ventilation, furnaces may work harder to manage humidity, odours, and uneven temperatures. 

How Ventilation Impacts Furnace Performance 

Poor ventilation can cause a range of issues that affect furnace operation. Excess moisture may lead to condensation problems, while stale air can create an uncomfortable space despite duct cleaning. In some cases, pressure imbalances caused by inadequate ventilation can interfere with the supply of combustion air. 

By improving airflow throughout the home, an HRV supports consistent furnace operation. This can reduce short cycling, improve temperature distribution, and help the system maintain stable performance during prolonged cold periods. 

Signs Your Home May Benefit From an HRV 

Homes that feel stuffy in winter, experience condensation on windows, or struggle with lingering odours may benefit from improved ventilation. Newer homes are particularly susceptible because they are built more airtight than older structures. 

If your furnace runs frequently but the temperature remains inconsistent, ventilation may be a contributing factor. Addressing airflow can sometimes resolve comfort complaints without major heating system changes. 

HRVs and Energy Efficiency 

While HRVs add ventilation, they are designed to do so efficiently. By recovering heat from outgoing air, they minimize the additional work required of the furnace. This balance helps maintain indoor comfort without significantly increasing energy usage. When paired with a properly sized furnace, an HRV contributes to a healthier indoor environment and more predictable heating performance throughout the winter. 

Heat Recovery Ventilators for Central Alberta Homes 

One HRV model commonly installed in Canadian homes is the Greentek PH7.15. Designed for cold climates, this unit provides dependable ventilation while maintaining heat recovery efficiency. Its compact design makes it suitable for residential installations with limited space. 

Choosing the right HRV depends on home size, layout and existing heating equipment. Professional assessment ensures proper sizing and integration with your furnace system. 

HRVs must be installed correctly to function as intended. Improper ducting or control setup can reduce effectiveness or create pressure issues. Integration with the furnace blower is also important to ensure balanced airflow throughout the home. 

When to Call RT Heating & Air Conditioning 

RT Heating & Air Conditioning is your full-service HVAC company in Red Deer. We evaluate both ventilation and heating systems together, ensuring they work as a coordinated system rather than in isolation. If your home struggles with air quality, humidity or uneven heating, an HRV may be part of the solution.