Analysis and feasibility study of residential integrated heat and energy recovery ventilator with built-in economizer using an excel spreadsheet program

Currently, heat recovery ventilator (HRV) and energy recovery ventilator (ERV) are commonly studied. Nevertheless, there is limited information regarding the dual-core approach energy recovery. This paper investigates the feasibility of an integrated HRV and ERV system, namely HERV, with a built-in economizer used in the residential sector to reduce dependency on furnace and air conditioning systems. In order to achieve this goal, an excel-based analysis tool was developed, providing a quick estimate of system performance and comparison with the HRV and ERV that are currently being used in research houses. The potential of integrated heat and energy recovery ventilator was evaluated based on its calculated operating cost ratio (OCR) and its payback period. Results collected for Vancouver and Toronto, corresponding to temperate and continental climate, indicated that the OCRs of the HERV were four times smaller than the ERV's, meaning that the proposed system was cost-efficient. It was also evidenced that the high demand on the economizer resulted in higher energy saving and shorter payback period of the system. In conclusion, the integrated HERV system with a built-in economizer could be a feasible option for both temperate and continental climates.