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Ventilation

Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV)

Fresh outdoor air while exhausting stale indoor air. Professional HRV installation, repair, and maintenance in Greater Vancouver.

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604-603-1800

Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV)

Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV) is a mechanical ventilation system that provides fresh outdoor air while exhausting stale indoor air.

It uses a heat exchanger core to transfer heat from outgoing stale air to the incoming fresh air without mixing the two airstreams. In winter, it recovers heat from the warm indoor air before it’s exhausted and uses it to pre-warm the incoming cold air; in summer, it helps keep cool indoor air by transferring some of the heat from incoming warm outdoor air to the outgoing air.

Having a HRV can improve indoor air quality by removing pollutants, moisture, and odors. It can also reduce energy loss compared to opening windows for ventilation. It helps control humidity levels, preventing mold growth. This contributes to better comfort and efficiency in modern airtight homes.

HRV Troubleshooting Guide

Common HRV problems and solutions. For complex repairs, contact our professional team.

Issue

Possible Reason/Solution

  • No Power / Unit Not Running
  • Check power supply: Ensure breaker/fuse hasn't tripped
  • Inspect power switch: Confirm unit's service switch is on
  • Test control panel: Wall switch/timer may be faulty
  • Weak or No Airflow
  • Dirty filters: Remove and clean/replace intake and exhaust filters (clogging is the #1 issue)
  • Blocked intake/exhaust hoods: Snow, leaves, or bird nests can obstruct airflow
  • Dampers stuck: Inspect balancing dampers for proper position
  • Fan malfunction: Listen for motor operation; if not running, motor or capacitor may need replacement
  • Excess Condensation / Water Leaks
  • Clogged drain line: Clear the condensate drain with warm water or a wet/dry vacuum
  • Improper slope: Drain tubing must slope downward to the floor drain
  • Frost buildup in winter: Check defrost cycle operation (electric preheater or recirculation damper)
  • Unusual Noises (Rattling, Grinding, High-Pitched)
  • Loose panels or mounting brackets: Tighten screws and ensure the unit is level
  • Dirty or unbalanced fans: Clean blower wheel; if noise persists, fan bearings may be worn
  • Airflow restriction: Check for blocked ducts, dirty filters, or collapsed flex ducting
  • Stale or Musty Indoor Air
  • Dirty core: Clean HRV core with mild soap and water (as per manufacturer)
  • Filters overdue: Replace or clean filters
  • Improper balancing: Supply and exhaust airflow should be equal; if not, adjust dampers
  • Continuous low speed setting: Confirm system is running at adequate speed for house size/occupancy
  • Frost on the Core (Winter Problem)
  • Defrost cycle failure: Ensure unit goes into defrost mode (check control board, temperature sensor)
  • Blocked intake hood: Frost/snow may restrict airflow
  • Unbalanced airflow: If exhaust exceeds intake, negative pressure can pull in cold air
  • Control or Timer Malfunction
  • Wall switch unresponsive: Replace low-voltage wall control
  • Wiring issues: Check for loose or damaged low-voltage connections
  • Control board failure: If fans don't respond to any control inputs, the board may need replacement

HRV Repair Services

Why Choose Us for HRV Repairs?

Your Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) plays a key role in keeping your home comfortable, healthy, and energy efficient. When it stops working properly, you may notice stale air, humidity issues, or higher energy bills. At Skyra Heating & Cooling, we provide fast, reliable HRV repair in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland — so your system works like new again.

Common HRV Problems We Repair

  • High-performance and airtight homes
  • Weak airflow or poor ventilation
  • Water leaks or condensation issues
  • Strange noises (rattling, grinding, whistling)
  • Frost buildup on the core (winter issue)
  • Control or timer malfunctions
  • Stale, musty, or humid indoor air

Our Repair Process

1. Inspection & Diagnosis

◦ Full check of power supply, filters, fans, drain system, and control board

◦ Full check of power supply, filters, fans, drain system, and control board

2. Professional Repair

◦ Replace faulty fans, motors, capacitors, or control boards

◦ Clear blocked drains, clean filters, and restore airflow

◦ Adjust or rebalance airflows to manufacturer specs

3. System Testing

◦ Ensure proper defrost cycle operation (winter readiness)

◦ Verify fresh air supply and exhaust balance

◦ Confirm quiet and efficient performance

Benefits of Professional HRV Repair

  • Better indoor air quality – fresh, healthy air every day
  • Energy savings – prevent heat loss and lower bills
  • Comfort & humidity control – no more condensation on windows
  • Longer system lifespan – prevents costly breakdowns

Breathe Better with a New HRV System

Modern homes are built airtight for energy efficiency — but without proper ventilation, indoor air can quickly become stale, humid, and unhealthy. A Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) brings in fresh outdoor air while exhausting stale indoor air, all while recovering heat to keep your home efficient and comfortable.

At Skyra Heating & Cooling, we specialize in professional HRV installations across Vancouver and the Lower Mainland. Whether you’re upgrading an older unit or adding fresh air ventilation to your home, we’ll make sure your system is properly sized, balanced, and built to last.

Benefits of a Professionally Installed HRV

Fresh, Healthy Air Year-Round

Removes stale air, odors, and indoor pollutants

Lower Energy Costs

Transfers heat from outgoing air to incoming air

Humidity Control

Helps reduce condensation and mold growth

Comfort

Keeps your home balanced, fresh, and evenly ventilated

Longer Building Life

Prevents excess moisture from damaging walls, windows, and insulation

Our HRV Installation Process

1. Home Assessment & Sizing

We calculate the right HRV size for your home's square footage, layout, and occupancy.

2. Custom Installation

◦ Properly sealed connections for quiet, efficient operation

◦ Clear blocked drains, clean filters, and restore airflow

◦ Adjust or rebalance airflows to manufacturer specs

3. Balancing & Commissioning

◦ We use precision tools to balance supply and exhaust airflow

◦ Confirm energy efficiency and heat recovery performance

◦ Walk you through controls and maintenance tips

Why Choose Us?

Licensed & Experienced HVAC Technicians

Certified professionals with years of ventilation expertise

Vancouver Building Codes & Rebates

Knowledge of local codes and rebate programs

High-Efficiency HRV Models Available

Access to top-quality systems from leading manufacturers

Full One-Stop Shop

Heating, cooling, plumbing & ventilation services

Book Your HRV Installation Today

Skyra Heating & Cooling — Vancouver’s trusted comfort specialists.

Book Free Estimate
604-603-1800