Nate Core Practice Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Energy recovery ventilation (ERV) enhances HVAC efficiency primarily by transferring heat and moisture between incoming and outgoing air streams. This process allows the system to reclaim energy that would otherwise be lost when stale indoor air is expelled and fresh outdoor air is drawn in.

When air is exchanged in an ERV system, the outgoing air, which is usually warmer and more humid in warm climates, is used to condition the incoming outdoor air. This can significantly reduce the energy load on heating and cooling systems, leading to less energy consumption and lower utility bills. The ability to manage both heat and moisture also contributes to improved indoor air quality and comfort.

In contrast, recycling old air does not contribute to energy efficiency and could lead to poor air quality, while filtering pollutants is important for health but does not directly improve energy efficiency. Maintaining a constant temperature across all areas is more related to temperature control and distribution, which is not the primary function of ERV technology.