Expert: Ted Barnhill (Principal, Design45 LLC) - 3/23/2009

Question
Hello,
I have a 1200 sqaue foot home, and it is approx 35 years old.  The house is heated by baseboard radiant heat which comes from the ceiling.  The house has never had any type of air circulation in it other than the ceiling fans and the range hood over my oven.  I would like to put in some sort of air  flowing throughout the house.  What would you suggest?  We come from a province where it is extremely cold in the winter and very hot and humid in the summer.
Totally confused...cam

Answer
Camille,

I recommend you look into Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) and Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs).  Either can be designed as a stand-alone system, separate from your existing heating, or integrated into a new heating/cooling system for your home.  The latter will require more new ductwork, but may be more efficient and/or effective over time.  Both HRVs and ERVs exchange the air in your home with fresh outdoor air; HRVs recapture heat (or cooling) from exhaust air to save energy, while ERVs also transfer humidity (in/out of the waste air as desired).  Either will make your home more comfortable and healthy, and may help prevent possible moisture/mold problems in your home.  I hope this helps. -Ted