Energy Recovery Ventilator or Heat Recovery Ventilator—calculate the full installed cost including unit, duct runs, exterior terminations, and controls so your indoor air quality proposal is complete and positions you above every competitor quoting a box fan.
An HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator) transfers heat between outgoing stale air and incoming fresh air—ideal for cold, dry climates where you want to bring in fresh air without importing outdoor humidity. An ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilator) transfers both heat and moisture—better for humid climates where you want to limit humidity transfer in summer. Getting this wrong doesn't break the system, but it costs the customer money and comfort. Know your regional climate and recommend accordingly.
ASHRAE 62.2 sets the minimum ventilation rate for residences: 0.15 CFM per square foot plus 7.5 CFM per bedroom. A 2,000 sqft 3-bedroom home needs at minimum 322 CFM of total ventilation—but this includes natural infiltration, so the mechanical ventilation rate is typically 50–150 CFM depending on how tight the building envelope is. Size the unit to the ASHRAE calculation, not to the "what fits the budget" conversation. Undersized units don't improve air quality enough to justify the install.
ERV and HRV filters need cleaning or replacement every 3–6 months. The cores need inspection annually. Most homeowners don't do this—and a clogged core runs at 30–40% efficiency, which reduces the product's value and generates an eventual service call anyway. Include filter maintenance in your service agreement pitch at time of installation. A 30-minute annual service call at $150–$200 on every unit you install adds up fast and keeps your customer relationship active between larger jobs.
The HVAC Business Starter Kit includes a flat-rate price book for 35 common heating and cooling jobs, service agreement template, and indoor air quality reference guide. Guide from $19 — Complete Kit with all 19 templates, $49.
Get the HVAC Kit →ERV and HRV installation pricing includes the unit, duct connections to fresh air intake and exhaust, balancing, and controls integration with the existing HVAC system. This calculator builds the complete installation price based on unit size and installation complexity. Use it to price ventilation upgrades and indoor air quality jobs as demand for healthier home air continues to grow.