How much does an HRV unit cost installed compared to an ERV in the GTA?

An HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator) typically costs $2,500 to $5,000 installed in a GTA home, while an ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilator) runs $3,000 to $6,000 installed. The price difference reflects the ERV's additional moisture-transfer capability, which uses an enthalpic core rather than a simple heat-exchange core. Both prices include the unit itself, dedicated supply and exhaust ductwork, exterior wall or roof caps, controls, balancing, and commissioning.

The key difference between the two systems comes down to humidity management. An HRV transfers heat between the outgoing stale air and incoming fresh air but lets moisture pass through unchanged. An ERV transfers both heat and moisture, which means it recovers some of the humidity you have paid to add in winter and keeps some of the outdoor humidity out in summer. For GTA homeowners who run air conditioning from June through September, an ERV is generally the better investment because it reduces the latent cooling load on your AC system. Homes that do not have central air conditioning — common in older Toronto neighbourhoods like the Danforth, Leslieville, and parts of Etobicoke — may do just fine with the less expensive HRV.

The installation cost is heavily influenced by whether your home already has dedicated ventilation ductwork. If you are replacing an existing HRV or ERV and the ductwork is already in place, expect to pay $1,500 to $3,500 for the swap. A brand-new installation in a home that has never had whole-house ventilation requires running dedicated supply and exhaust ducts to multiple rooms, cutting penetrations through the building envelope, and wiring controls — that is where the $4,000 to $6,000 range applies. Homes with complex layouts or finished ceilings that require fishing ducts through walls and soffits will land at the higher end.

Brand and capacity also affect pricing. Entry-level units from Lifebreath or Fantech start around $800 to $1,200 for the equipment alone, while premium models from Zehnder, Broan, or Venmar with ECM motors, MERV 13 filtration, and smart controls can reach $2,500 to $4,000 before installation. ECM-motor models use significantly less electricity over their lifespan, so the upfront premium often pays for itself within five to seven years.

Any electrical work associated with HRV or ERV installation must be performed by an ESA-Licensed Electrical Contractor. If the installation involves modifications to your existing duct system or adding new ductwork, a building permit from your local municipality may be required. The unit must be properly balanced — meaning the supply and exhaust airflows are measured and adjusted to match — otherwise you create either positive or negative pressure in the home, which can cause comfort issues, moisture problems, or backdrafting of gas appliances.

Get at least three quotes from contractors experienced with ventilation system installation, and ask specifically about balancing and commissioning. Toronto Ductwork can match you with local ductwork and ventilation professionals through the Toronto Construction Network for free estimates on your project.