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Ventilation

The most efficient sources of ventilation are those that move more air while consuming less electricity.

The ratio of air flow at a specific fan setting is expressed in cubic feet per minute (CFM). The ratio of airflow divided by the power of a specific setting of a ceiling fan is expressed as CFM per watt (CFM/watt). The higher the percentage the more energy efficient the ceiling fan is.

The airflow of ventilating fans is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM) and these values are certified by HVI (Home Ventilating Institute - www.hvi.org)

Heat Recovery Ventilators are rated for heat recovery efficiency through the Home Ventilating Institute (HVI). The efficiency of an HRV varies based on the outside air temperature.
Heat recovery performance is measured at both zero degrees Celsius and at minus 25 degrees Celsius. Look for the rating listed for "Sensible Recovery Efficiency" at an air flow as close as possible to 55 L/S in order to compare models for an average size house. For smaller dwellings such as apartments or mini homes look for the rating at 30 L/S. Sensible recovery efficiency is a percentage of heat recovery from outside temperature to inside temperature. You will also see “Apparent Recovery Efficiency”, however this measurement does not take into consideration duct work, therefore would be seen as a higher efficiency rating. Always look for Sensible Recovery Efficiency.
ENERGY STAR qualified ceiling fans move air up to 20% more efficiently than standard ceiling fans.

On average, ENERGY STAR qualified ventilating fans use 65 % less energy and are 50% quieter than standard models. Because of better blade design, they move more air with less noise and their high performance motors last longer.

Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRV) bring fresh air in from the outside and exhaust stale air from the inside while removing heat from the stale air. The heat from stale air is used to warm fresh air.