Light Commercial ERV and HRV Guide

Key Summary

Light commercial spaces like cafes, clinics, daycares, and offices need effective ventilation to ensure fresh air, energy efficiency, and code compliance. Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) and Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) both exchange stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air while saving energy. The key difference is that HRVs transfer heat only, ideal for cold/dry climates, whereas ERVs transfer heat and moisture, better for humid or mixed climates. Choosing the right system depends on your local climate, occupancy needs, and building design, but both options greatly improve indoor air quality and comfort in small commercial environments.

TL;DR:

• ERVs vs. HRVs: ERVs recover both heat and humidity; HRVs recover heat only. Use ERVs in humid or mixed climates, HRVs in cold, dry areas.
• How They Work: Both bring in fresh air and exhaust stale air through a heat exchanger. HRVs keep warmth in winter (and coolness in summer), ERVs do the same plus balance moisture levels.
• Why Ventilate: Proper ventilation in small businesses boosts occupant health, comfort, and productivity. It removes pollutants/odors and meets building code fresh air requirements while saving energy.
• Use Cases: Cafes, dental clinics, daycares, retail shops, and small offices all benefit from HRV/ERV systems to maintain air quality and control humidity.
• Sizing Tips: Select a unit by considering floor area and occupancy. Aim for industry-standard fresh air rates (often ~5–10 CFM per person) and choose a capacity (CFM) slightly above your minimum needs for efficiency.
• Best Systems: Top brands offer both ducted and ductless models. For example, ductless ERV units can ventilate single rooms up to ~500 sq ft (great for retrofits), while ducted HRV/ERV systems handle entire small buildings. Modern units feature smart controls, multiple speeds, and high efficiency cores for year-round performance.

Understanding ERVs and HRVs

An HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator) and an ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilator) are both mechanical ventilation systems that provide fresh air while conserving energy. They continuously exhaust stale indoor air and bring in fresh outdoor air, passing the two air streams through a heat exchange core. This core transfers heat from the outgoing air to the incoming air (or vice versa in summer), so your building retains warmth in winter and cool in summer instead of losing conditioned air. The result is a supply of fresh air without the high energy penalty usually associated with ventilation.

HRV vs. ERV – the key difference is moisture transfer: An HRV transfers heat only, whereas an ERV transfers both heat and moisture between the air streams. In an HRV, the outgoing air’s heat is captured to warm the incoming air (in winter) or its coolness helps precool incoming air (in summer), but no humidity is exchanged. An ERV does the same for heat energy but also allows water vapor to pass through the specialized enthalpic core. This means an ERV can retain some humidity in winter (so indoor air doesn’t get too dry) and reject some humidity in summer (so incoming air isn’t too moist). By balancing moisture, ERVs help maintain comfortable indoor humidity levels year-round, which is especially beneficial in climates with high humidity or big seasonal humidity swings.

How Each System Works: Both systems consist of intake and exhaust ducts, fans, filters, and the heat exchange core. In operation, stale air from inside is pulled through the exchanger and vented out, while fresh outside air is drawn in through the exchanger and delivered indoors. In an HRV, the two air streams do not mix, but thermal energy passes through the core’s material (often aluminum or plastic) to pre-condition the fresh air. In an ERV, the core is designed to also let water vapor diffuse across, so moisture moves from the more humid air stream to the drier one. Importantly, the intake and exhaust air never directly mix; they only exchange heat (and in ERVs, humidity) through the core walls, ensuring incoming air is fresh and outgoing contaminants are expelled.

Ventilation Without Energy Waste: By recovering 60–95% of the heat from outgoing air, HRVs and ERVs dramatically reduce the load on your heating or cooling systems. For example, in winter an HRV might bring in 0°C outdoor air and warm it to 18°C using the heat from the 20°C exhaust air, meaning your furnace only needs to raise it a couple more degrees instead of 20 degrees. In summer, an ERV can expel humid indoor air and pre-cool/dry the incoming hot air, easing the strain on air conditioning. The result is a well-ventilated space that stays comfortable and efficient. Both systems typically run continuously at a low speed to provide steady background ventilation, with the option to boost to higher airflow when needed (for instance, during business hours or if indoor air quality sensors detect a rise in CO₂ or humidity).

ERV vs. HRV: Key Differences and Climate Considerations

Choosing between an ERV and HRV largely depends on your climate and moisture control needs. Both types will improve indoor air quality and save energy, but each excels in different conditions:

• Cold, Dry Climates (e.g. Canadian winters, northern US): An HRV is often the preferred choice for very cold or dry regions. In these areas, maintaining humidity isn’t as difficult (in fact, indoor air can become too dry in winter). An HRV’s focus on heat recovery ensures you keep the warmth in without adding moisture. Since it doesn’t retain humidity, it helps expel excess moisture from activities (like cooking or showering) which is fine in dry winter air. For example, in a cold winter climate, an HRV will efficiently conserve heat and provide fresh air, preventing issues like condensation or frost build-up that an ERV might face if moisture accumulated in the exchanger. Many light commercial buildings in cold regions use HRVs to meet ventilation needs and minimize heating costs. Is an HRV good for business use? Absolutely – in a small business located in a chilly, dry climate, an HRV provides ample fresh air and heat savings. It’s a straightforward, effective solution to ventilate offices, shops, or community halls where humidity control is not the top concern.
• Humid or Mixed Climates (e.g. US South, Midwest with humid summers): An ERV is ideal in areas with high humidity or big humidity swings. By recovering moisture along with heat, ERVs prevent your ventilation system from overly drying the indoor air in winter or introducing too much outdoor humidity in summer. For a small commercial space in a humid climate, an ERV helps keep indoor humidity at comfortable levels – which is crucial for occupant comfort and for protecting furnishings or merchandise from moisture damage. For instance, a yoga studio or clinic in a humid region would benefit from an ERV to avoid bringing in muggy air that could make the space clammy or force the AC to work harder. In shoulder seasons or very dry climates, ERVs can also retain some moisture indoors to avoid conditions getting too parched. Overall, ERVs shine whenever maintaining a balance of humidity adds value – think of locations like the southeastern US, coastal areas, or even a cold climate building that experiences extremely dry indoor air in winter (an ERV can help keep some moisture in).
• Moderate Climates: In milder climates without extreme cold or humidity, either system can work, but many opt for ERVs to cover all bases. An ERV will act like an HRV when humidity differences are small (mostly just transferring heat), but it’s ready to handle any humid days too. For example, in a place with warm days and cool nights or mixed seasons, an ERV offers more flexibility.

Capacity and Occupancy: Another consideration is the typical occupancy and ventilation load of your space. High-occupancy commercial spaces (lots of people in a room) generate a lot of CO₂ and some moisture from breathing. These spaces need higher ventilation rates. If humidity isn’t a big problem (say a call center in a dry climate), an HRV can supply plenty of fresh air and let your HVAC handle any needed humidity adjustments. However, if dozens of people are in a small humid conference room in summer, an ERV would help by not dumping all that humidity-laden air directly inside. In practice, both HRVs and ERVs are used in commercial buildings; larger facilities often incorporate multiple units or integrated systems. For light commercial purposes, the decision often boils down to climate and any specific moisture-sensitive operations in your business.

Summary of Differences: To recap, choose an ERV if controlling humidity is important – for example, in humid climates, mixed climates, or anytime you want to retain moisture for comfort (or keep excessive moisture out). Choose an HRV if your primary goal is maximum heat recovery in a cold, dry climate and indoor humidity is easily managed by other means (or not a concern). If unsure, many modern ERVs are designed to work in a wide range of climates (some even advertise all-climate usage with advanced cores). Always consider your local environment and even seasonal conditions – some businesses in northern climates run ERVs in summer and HRVs in winter, but most small facilities will stick with one system type year-round. The good news is that both ERVs and HRVs will provide the essential fresh air exchange your business needs, so it’s really about fine-tuning comfort and efficiency by picking the right one.

Why Proper Ventilation Matters for Small Commercial Spaces

Good ventilation is critical for occupant health, comfort, and even productivity in any business or public space. Stale indoor air can accumulate pollutants and irritants such as carbon dioxide (from occupants’ breath), volatile organic compounds (from cleaning products, furnishings or printing equipment), dust, mold spores, and odors from cooking or chemicals. Without adequate fresh air exchange, these contaminants build up, leading to symptoms like headaches, fatigue, allergic reactions, or simply a stuffy, unpleasant environment. For customers and employees alike, breathing clean air is fundamental – it keeps people more alert, reduces sickness, and creates a welcoming atmosphere.

Health and Code Compliance: Commercial building codes in Canada and the U.S. mandate minimum ventilation rates to ensure a safe indoor environment. Standards such as ASHRAE 62.1 (Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality) outline how much fresh air (in cubic feet per minute per person or per square foot of floor area) different types of spaces require. For instance, guidelines often recommend on the order of 5 to 10 CFM (cubic feet per minute) of outdoor air per person in an occupied space as a baseline. This means even a small shop with 10 occupants might need ~50+ CFM of continuous fresh airflow. Specific requirements vary by local building codes and the usage of the space (a daycare, for example, might have higher fresh air needs per child, and a salon might need extra ventilation due to chemical fumes). Installing an HRV or ERV is one of the most efficient ways to meet these ventilation requirements. These systems ensure you’re bringing in the necessary fresh air to comply with health and safety standards (and avoid issues like excess CO₂ or lingering odors) while not wasting energy. Many modern energy codes and green building programs actually encourage or require heat recovery ventilation because it both saves energy and guarantees a supply of fresh air. By using an HRV/ERV, your small business can more easily pass inspections and demonstrate compliance with ventilation and energy efficiency regulations.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings: Before HRVs/ERVs became common, ventilating a building meant heating or cooling a lot of outside air from scratch – a very expensive prospect. That’s why some older buildings skimped on ventilation, leading to “sick building syndrome” issues. With heat/energy recovery technology, there’s no need to compromise. You can provide plenty of fresh air without running up your utility bills. The energy saved by recovering heat that would otherwise be exhausted can be substantial – an ERV or HRV can reclaim 60–80% (or more) of the thermal energy, meaning your HVAC system works that much less to keep indoor temperatures comfortable. Over a year, this translates to noticeable savings, especially in climates with extreme temperatures where ventilation losses are largest. Additionally, maintaining balanced humidity with an ERV can reduce strain on dehumidifiers or humidifiers, further saving energy. In sum, proper ventilation through HRVs/ERVs improves indoor air quality while also cutting heating/cooling costs, which is a win-win for a small business’s bottom line.

Comfort and Productivity: A well-ventilated space simply feels better to be in. Employees working in fresh, oxygen-rich environments tend to stay more alert and productive. Customers are more likely to linger in a shop or cafe that doesn’t smell stuffy or feel suffocating. Good ventilation also helps control indoor humidity and temperature distribution. For example, an HRV or ERV can help evenly circulate air between rooms, avoiding stuffy corners or temperature stratification. By reducing excess humidity, you prevent that clammy feeling in summer or condensation on windows in winter. Conversely, by retaining some humidity (with an ERV in winter), you avoid overly dry air that can cause scratchy throats or static shocks. All these factors contribute to the comfort of occupants. In sensitive environments like clinics or daycares, fresh air ventilation is even more crucial – it can help dilute airborne germs and odors, contributing to a healthier setting. Ultimately, investing in a proper ventilation system is investing in the well-being of everyone who steps inside your building, which can enhance your business’s reputation and effectiveness.

Use Cases: ERVs and HRVs in Small Commercial Properties

Different types of small commercial spaces have unique ventilation challenges, but HRVs and ERVs can be tailored to each scenario to provide optimal fresh air. Let’s look at a few common use cases and how these systems make a difference:

• Cafés and Restaurants: Small eateries generate heat and moisture from cooking equipment, as well as odors from food preparation. An HRV/ERV helps exhaust kitchen odours and excess humidity while bringing in fresh outdoor air to keep dining areas comfortable. In winter, an HRV recovers heat from the warm air being vented out (for instance, from a busy kitchen or packed cafe), saving energy. In summer, an ERV can reduce the load on the AC by pre-cooling and dehumidifying incoming air. Proper ventilation also ensures that customers always have a supply of oxygen-rich air – no one likes a stale, stuffy café. And it helps meet health code requirements for adequate air changes in dining spaces. Typically, a café might use a ducted HRV/ERV system connected to the dining area and kitchen hood to balance air extraction and intake, maintaining slight positive pressure in the dining area to prevent kitchen smells from overpowering the space.
• Clinics and Healthcare Offices: Doctor’s offices, dental clinics, and veterinary clinics are often in small commercial units. Here, indoor air quality is paramount not only for comfort but also for infection control. An ERV is a popular choice in healthcare settings because it can manage humidity (preventing overly dry air that can irritate respiratory passages, while also avoiding too much dampness that could foster mold). These spaces also produce odors and potentially harmful aerosols (e.g., from medical procedures or cleaning agents), so continuous ventilation is needed. An HRV or ERV will continuously replace stale air with fresh, filtered air, improving overall hygiene. Additionally, modern ERV/HRV systems can be equipped with high MERV or HEPA filters to further clean incoming air – a benefit for any health-focused environment. By recovering energy, clinics can keep operating costs down despite high ventilation rates, and they stay compliant with stringent indoor air standards often required in healthcare.
• Daycares and Classrooms: Young children are particularly vulnerable to poor air quality, and they also are sources of lots of CO₂ (busy little lungs!) and moisture (from breath and activity). A daycare or small classroom can become stuffy quickly without good ventilation. HRVs and ERVs in these settings ensure a constant flow of fresh air, which can reduce the spread of colds and help children stay alert. Many building codes actually specify higher ventilation per person for schools and daycares. For example, in a daycare room with 20 children, the ventilation need might be considerable – an HRV/ERV can supply this efficiently. In colder climates, an HRV keeps the playroom warm while venting out germs and odours (think of diaper smells or craft project fumes), whereas in moderate/humid climates, an ERV would be preferred to keep indoor humidity in check (avoiding condensation and mold risk from all those little noses and spills). Also, noise is a factor – HRV/ERV units run quietly in the background, much quieter than opening windows on a noisy street. This maintains a peaceful learning/resting environment.
• Small Offices and Retail Shops: These spaces often have intermittent occupancy – for example, a boutique might be quiet in the morning and busier in the afternoon. With an HRV or ERV, you can ensure any buildup of CO₂ or odors (from carpets, electronics, or just human presence) is flushed out regularly. Employees will feel less drowsy in a well-ventilated office, and customers in a retail store will appreciate the fresh atmosphere (even subtle differences count, like no “stale air” smell clinging to clothing merchandise). For offices, proper ventilation has been linked to better cognitive function and fewer sick days for workers – a significant benefit in a small company. In terms of system choice, if the office is located in a region with cold winters, an HRV might suffice to provide fresh air without cooling the space down. In areas with muggy summers or if the office has a lot of electronics that dry out the air, an ERV helps maintain a comfortable balance. Shops with doors opening frequently might lose conditioned air – an HRV/ERV can help make up for those losses by recovering energy during the steady background exchange, keeping the interior environment stable.

In all these cases, the size and layout of the space will dictate whether a ducted central system or several smaller ductless units make sense. For instance, a single-room boutique or an open-plan small office might use one centrally located HRV/ERV connected to ductwork distributing air throughout the space. A partitioned clinic with several exam rooms might opt for a couple of ductless ERV units installed through exterior walls to ventilate each section independently if adding ductwork is impractical. The flexibility of available HRV/ERV products means there’s usually a solution for every layout – from wall-mounted and ceiling cassette units to bigger floor-mounted boxes for mechanical rooms. The next section will discuss how to approach sizing and selecting the right unit for your needs.

Sizing and Selecting the Right Ventilation System

Picking the proper size (capacity) HRV or ERV for your light commercial space is crucial – too small and you won’t meet air exchange needs, too large and you might waste energy or money. Here are some tips to get it right:

• Calculate Your Ventilation Needs: Start by considering the occupancy and square footage of your space. A common guideline (from ASHRAE standards) is to provide around 0.35 to 0.5 air changes per hour for a commercial space, or use the per-person CFM rates mentioned earlier (e.g. 5–10 CFM per person, or higher for high-activity spaces). For example, if you have a 1,000 sq ft yoga studio that is 10 ft high (10,000 cubic ft) and you want 0.5 air changes per hour, you need about 5,000 cubic ft per hour of fresh air, which is ~83 CFM continuously. If 20 people use the studio at once, at 10 CFM/person that’s 200 CFM needed – so you’d likely size closer to that higher requirement. Always check local code or engineering guidance for the specific type of space you have (offices, retail, assembly, etc., can have different requirements). It’s wise to err slightly on the higher side of ventilation needs to ensure good air quality during peak occupancy.
• Understand CFM Ratings: HRV/ERV units are rated by CFM (cubic feet per minute) at certain static pressures (the resistance of your duct system). You’ll see models that handle 50 CFM, 100 CFM, 200 CFM, etc. For light commercial use, many residential-grade units in the 100–200+ CFM range can work, but larger commercial areas might need multiple units or bigger “light commercial” models (some go up to 500–700+ CFM). Choose a unit that can at least meet your calculated CFM need at 60–80% of its maximum output. This ensures the system can run efficiently (not maxed out at all times) and have some headroom for boost modes. For example, if your small office requires 150 CFM at peak, a unit rated for around 200 CFM max would be appropriate, providing some extra capacity for high-demand times or future needs. Manufacturers often provide guidelines like “suitable for X sq ft or Y number of occupants” – use those as a starting point.
• Ducted vs. Ductless: Decide if you want a ducted system (one central HRV/ERV connected via ducts to various rooms) or ductless units (self-contained units installed through an exterior wall for single-room ventilation). For a business with multiple rooms or a larger open area, ducted systems often make sense to distribute air evenly. They require space to run ducts and ideally a mechanical room or ceiling space to place the unit. Ductless ERVs/HRVs are great for retrofit scenarios or isolated rooms. For instance, a small salon operating in a older building might simply put a ductless ERV on an exterior wall to draw in and exhaust air without having to install ductwork throughout. Some businesses use a mix: perhaps a central HRV for the main area and a couple of ductless ERV vents for closed rooms lacking airflow. In terms of sizing, ductless units are usually lower CFM (often 20–60 CFM each), suitable for single rooms or to supplement a central system. You might install multiple ductless units in different areas rather than one large unit.
• Consider Energy Ratings and Features: Not all HRVs/ERVs are created equal. Look for units with a high sensible heat recovery efficiency (SRE) – many quality units achieve 70–80% or more efficiency at recovering heat. Also, select the core type based on your needs (enthalpy core for ERV, sensible core for HRV – some products let you choose or swap cores). Features like variable speed controls, smart sensors, and automatic balancing are very useful. For example, some newer HRVs/ERVs include auto-balancing technology that adjusts airflow to maintain equal exhaust and intake volumes even as filters get dirty or wind pressures change. This ensures consistent performance without needing frequent manual adjustments – a plus for busy business owners who want “set it and forget it” operation. Built-in controls or an LCD panel to adjust CFM, timers, or integrate with your building’s automation can also enhance convenience. While these features might add to upfront cost, they can improve efficiency and ease of maintenance in the long run.
• Installation and Maintenance Considerations: Factor in where and how the unit will be installed. Wall-mounted and ceiling units save floor space but check that you have an accessible location for running intake/exhaust ducts to the outside. If you don’t have a false ceiling or utility room, a compact wall ERV might be the answer. Also ensure the unit’s sound level is appropriate – most are very quiet, especially on low, but larger units have fan noise to account for. Look at maintenance requirements: filters typically need cleaning or replacing 2–4 times a year, and cores should be checked annually. Choose a model that makes it easy to pull out and clean the filters (most have quick access panels). If you’re in a very cold climate, look for units with frost control or defrost cycles so they don’t ice up in winter. Almost all HRVs in cold regions have some frost prevention strategy (like periodic defrost cycles or electric pre-heaters) – make sure to implement that according to the manufacturer’s guidance to keep your system running smoothly in sub-freezing temperatures.

In summary, proper sizing and selection comes down to matching the unit to your space’s needs and constraints. If in doubt, consult an HVAC professional or use manufacturers’ selection tools – they can input your floor area, climate zone, and usage to recommend suitable models. Many suppliers of HRVs/ERVs (including those in the Rise online store) provide detailed specs and customer support to help you choose. With the right system in place, you’ll ensure your commercial space is well-ventilated, compliant with codes, and operating efficiently.

What is the Best ERV for a Small Commercial Building?

When it comes to the “best” ERV for a small commercial application, it’s important to recognize that the best choice depends on your specific needs – there is no one-size-fits-all winner. However, top-performing ERVs for light commercial or large residential use share some common traits: high efficiency cores, reliable motors, low noise, and controls that make them easy to use and balance.

Consider Capacity and Climate: The best ERV for your building will be one that can deliver the required CFM for your space and is suited to your climate. For instance, if you have a small commercial building up to, say, 3,000 sq ft, you might be looking at an ERV with a max airflow in the 200–300 CFM range. Models in this class often come from reputable brands like Broan, Panasonic, Fantech, RenewAire, or Aldes. If your building is smaller or divided, multiple smaller ERVs could be “best” to give zoning flexibility. In a humid climate, ensure the chosen ERV has a proven enthalpy core that performs well in high moisture (some cores have higher latent efficiency than others – look for those rated well in AHRI or HVI certifications).

Top Brand Examples: Some widely recognized models for small commercial or multi-room residential use include units like the RenewAire EV Series (e.g., EV130 mentioned in passive house contexts) which offers around 130 CFM with excellent energy recovery and is designed for both homes and small businesses. Panasonic’s Intelli-Balance ERV series is also popular – offering configurable airflow up to ~100 CFM with very quiet operation, suitable for offices or apartments. Broan (and its sister brand Venmar) produce ERVs specifically rated for light commercial duty; these often have robust blowers and features like auto-balancing. For example, Broan’s ERV models in the 200+ CFM range come with ECM motors and user-friendly digital controls. Aldes (a brand known for high-quality ventilation equipment) offers “light commercial” ERVs/HRVs like the Aldes H650, which provides around 600+ CFM and uses high-efficiency enthalpic cores suitable for any climate – this would be overkill for a very small building but excellent if you have a larger single-story office or a small school wing to ventilate.

If we frame it as a single best pick: a strong candidate is the Broan AI Series ERV (the ERV counterparts to the HRV we discuss below). Broan’s AI series units in the 150–200 CFM range offer advanced features like Virtuo Air Technology™ for automatic airflow balancing and an LCD interface. These units achieve around 75% sensible recovery efficiency and are Energy Star rated. They are built to handle continuous operation in homes or small commercial settings, and the auto-balancing ensures “set it and forget it” convenience, making them arguably one of the “best” for someone who doesn’t want to constantly fine-tune the system. Another excellent option is the Fantech SER series, which includes ERVs around 150–250 CFM that have proven reliability and high efficiency cores (Fantech is a well-regarded brand in North America for HRV/ERVs, often used in both houses and small commercial projects).

Don’t Forget Installation and Support: The best ERV is also one that you can get properly installed and serviced. Choosing a model that local HVAC technicians are familiar with can be a smart move. Also consider the availability of parts like replacement filters. Many of the top brands have readily available parts across Canada and the U.S. If your building has unique needs – for instance, extra filtration (due to smoke or allergy concerns) or the need for direct duct heater integration – ensure the ERV you choose has those add-on capabilities or accessories.

In summary, the “best” ERV is the one that meets your airflow requirements, suits your climate by controlling humidity appropriately, operates efficiently, and integrates well into your space. It’s worth reading product reviews and possibly case studies – for example, if others have used a certain ERV in a small office or retail store with great results, that’s a good indicator. In the next section, we’ll highlight a few specific products that are popular for light commercial ventilation, which can serve as a starting point in your search.

Recommended ERV and HRV Products for Light Commercial Use

To help you explore concrete options, below are some top-rated ERV/HRV units well-suited for small commercial spaces. These examples (available through the Rise online store) cover a range of capacities and designs – from ductless units for single rooms to higher-capacity ducted systems for entire small buildings. Each is known for reliability and efficiency, making them strong contenders for cafes, offices, clinics, and more:

Broan AI Series V160 HRV (159 CFM) – A smart, auto-balancing HRV perfect for mid-sized offices or shops. This unit provides up to 159 CFM of balanced ventilation and is equipped with Virtuo Air Technology™ that self-adjusts airflow, ensuring your space always gets the right amount of fresh air. An integrated LCD control panel allows easy setup of airflow from 35 to 159 CFM, and the system’s ECM motors deliver high efficiency with low noise. The Broan V160 HRV recovers about 75% of heat, keeping energy usage low. It’s a top pick for cold climates or any small business that wants a “install and forget” solution with modern features. (Ducted installation – ideal for ventilating multiple rooms or an open floor plan through ductwork.)

Vents TwinFresh RA1-50 Ductless ERV (~50 CFM) – An innovative single-room ERV for spaces up to 500 sq ft. The TwinFresh is a through-the-wall unit that requires no ducting, making it fantastic for retrofits, historic buildings, or individual offices and classrooms. Despite its compact size, it boasts a 93% efficient ceramic core that recovers heat and a built-in humidity sensor to help regulate moisture. It operates quietly (as low as 0.3 sones) and even offers Wi-Fi connectivity for remote control and monitoring. Use this in a studio, small retail bay, or any area lacking central ventilation – it will provide continuous fresh air and exhaust stale air on an alternating cycle, maintaining comfort and air quality without major renovation. (Wall-mounted, ductless – best for one room or zone; multiple units can be used for larger areas or separate rooms.)

Aldes H190 Heat Recovery Ventilator (200 CFM) – A compact yet powerful HRV suitable for small commercial suites or larger homes. The Aldes H190 can exchange up to ~200 CFM of air at 0.4″ static pressure, delivering ample ventilation for spaces roughly between 1,500 to 2,500 sq ft. It uses a high-efficiency polypropylene heat exchange core to recover warmth from exhaust air, and features independently adjustable blowers (FLEXControl) for fine-tuning supply and exhaust balancing. Installation is simplified by its small footprint and twist-in duct collars. Maintenance is easy too – the core and filters are accessible for cleaning, and it even has built-in ports for airflow verification. This unit is ideal for a small clinic, daycare, or multi-room office in a cooler climate where pure heat recovery is desired. It’s known for robust build quality and is HVI and Energy Star certified. (Ducted installation – typically placed in a mechanical room or ceiling space to ventilate multiple rooms.)

Aldes Light Commercial H650 ERV/HRV (600+ CFM) – A heavy-hitter for larger light-commercial needs. If you have a bigger area or higher occupancy (for example, a gym studio, a full-floor office, or a restaurant), the Aldes H650 series offers up to 735 CFM of balanced ventilation with heat recovery. Despite its high capacity, it’s designed to fit into tight spaces and has enthalpic core options for ERV operation (transferring moisture) or polypropylene cores for HRV mode, giving you climate flexibility. Units like this are often used in classrooms, community centers, or multi-zone commercial buildings – they can even ventilate multiple rooms/zones with one system. The H650 features multiple fan speed settings, easy-access panels for maintenance, and is built for continuous duty. It’s a superb example of a “light commercial” ventilator that bridges the gap between residential and commercial HVAC equipment. While it’s more unit than a very small shop might need, it’s the go-to for those who want one system to handle a larger small-building ventilation load efficiently. (Ducted installation – requires ductwork; best for bigger single-story buildings or divided spaces that can be manifolded into one system.)

Each of these products addresses a different scale of project – from a single-room solution to a whole-building unit. All of them prioritize energy efficiency, quiet operation, and healthier indoor air. When selecting among these, consider the specifics of your business: the floor area, number of rooms, typical occupancy, and whether you prefer a simpler install (ductless) versus a integrated central system. If you need more guidance, the Rise team offers resources and support to help you choose and design the right ventilation setup. Investing in a quality HRV or ERV will pay off in the form of a more comfortable, compliant, and cost-effective commercial space.

Sources

1. EVstudio – “ERV vs. HRV in HVAC Design” (Aug 2024). Discusses differences in applications for residential and commercial, climate considerations evstudio.com.
2. 1 Source Mechanical – “What are the Ventilation Requirements for Commercial Buildings?” (Jan 2023). Explains ASHRAE fresh air standards (e.g. 5–10 CFM per person) and importance of ventilation for health 1sourcemechanical.net.
3. Rise (Buildwithrise.com) – “Ductless HRV and ERVs – Breathe New Air into Your Home” (Luke Hunter, Oct 2024). Includes use cases for ductless systems in small commercial spaces and climate advice buildwithrise.com.
4. Aldes Product Page – “Aldes Light Commercial HRV H650-Fi-N”. Product details on 735 CFM unit, suitable for small non-residential spaces and any climate with enthalpic core shop.buildwithrise.ca.