Is a heat exchanger a component of an HRV?

A heat exchanger is indeed a key component of a Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV). The primary function of a heat exchanger in an HRV is to transfer heat between the incoming fresh air and the outgoing stale air without allowing the two airstreams to mix. This process helps to recover energy that would otherwise be lost, significantly improving the overall efficiency of the ventilation system.

In residential settings, HRVs are designed to provide proper ventilation while maintaining indoor air quality, and the heat exchanger plays a vital role in ensuring that the energy used to heat or cool the incoming air is conserved. This is what makes them particularly effective in climates where temperatures fluctuate significantly, as they can help maintain a comfortable environment using less energy.

Furthermore, this function applies universally to both commercial and residential HRVs, which means the presence of a heat exchanger is essential in all types of HRVs, not just specific subsets. Thus, it is accurate to affirm that a heat exchanger is a component of an HRV.