I had my HVAC guy over to look at my house yesterday regarding A/C, ventilation, etc. As some of you may know I'm building a well insulated home about 4000 sq feet including the basement with in-floor heating throughout. I wanted an airconditioner, HRV, filtration, and humidifier if possible but I didn't want to break the bank to get it. He's telling me an HRV won't adequately ventilate a house this size even with four bathroom fans and an oven hood. I've seen HRV's that say they're good for up to 5000 sq feet with a filter built in. As well after many suggestions I'm thinking of mini-splits for A/C. He's saying I need to install a furnace to blow enough air but besides price I think that it would just compete with the radiant heating. I'm waiting for his actual quote but I'm starting to think he's trying to milk me. Sean

Like this one: http://www.iaqsource.com/product.php?p=broan_gshh3k&product=111246&category=945 Sean

Trying to milk you? For heaven's sake, nobody in the construction industry would try to milk you, would they? :)

It's tough, you want to rely on a professional opinion, but many of the professionals are just going to tell you whatever it takes to get more of your money. Ask him if he has done any load calculations, and if yes then ask to see them and what factors did he include?

Does he have experience with HRV's or is he one of those "this is the way we've always done it" ? The extensive use of these is relatively new; he may be inexperienced.

He seems to know a lot and was a teacher at the technical institute here. Maybe a little too much theory and not enough real life. I want to see what he quotes then I'll probably have to tell him to get bent.

Thanks for the input,
Sean

I agree with the above, he may not be experienced or is trying to increase his profit. Whatever the case may be, maybe look for anotehr guy to do that aspect of the project? ERV's and HRV's are made to adequately handle that sized home. I also applaud you for using mini splits. We have a few customers that have taken the leap tp them over the past few months and rave about them. I will have them in my next home which should start this next spring! :) What brand are you looking at? I like the daikin heat pumps.

Well I was just blown away by my quote for an HRV, A/C, filtration and humidifier that turned into a 60 000btu furnace because "an HRV won't be sufficient" routine. $16 500!!!. I'll put a fan over ice and hook the vaccum to a window before I pay for that. I really hate when you think you can trust someone and the try to screw you. Sean

Anyone have any experience with these: http://www.greendroplet.com/product_info.php?products_id=1400 Sean

It may be that what he was saying is that an HRV cannot function as a blower for a 4000 ft house A/C. He may have suggested an air handler with electric coils since they add very little cost over just a blower which you need for the A/C anyway.

The $16500 to add A/C, ductwork, air filter, dehumidifier and an HRV to a 4000 ft house doesn't sound out of order to me. Get some other quotes from reputable contractors and compare.