What type of ventilation systems recover and reuse energy from exhaust air?

Energy Recovery Ventilation Systems are designed specifically to optimize indoor air quality while minimizing energy loss. These systems work by transferring heat and moisture between incoming and outgoing air streams. When exhaust air leaves the building, it carries away thermal energy and, in some cases, moisture. The energy recovery process involves passing this exhaust air through a heat exchanger, which allows the system to recover a significant portion of the thermal energy, thus pre-conditioning the incoming fresh air. This process enhances energy efficiency as it reduces the overall heating or cooling load on HVAC systems, leading to lower energy consumption and operational costs.

In contrast, other systems like Heat Recovery Systems also perform energy recovery but are often focused on specific applications or methods, whereas Energy Recovery Ventilation Systems are more comprehensive in managing both temperature and humidity. Exhaust Ventilation Systems, on the other hand, primarily expel indoor air without reclaiming energy, and Passive Ventilation Systems rely on natural airflow and do not incorporate mechanical energy recovery methods.