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Buildings which are air tight are becoming the standard in the modern age, whether in new builds or through the modification of older buildings. This is due to a variety of different issues including modern construction practices, better quality building materials and a push towards greater energy efficiency. Buildings that are air tight and insulated are more likely to retain heat and therefore conserve energy. This is both beneficial to the building owner and the wider environment. However, one of the downsides of air tight buildings is the build-up of stale, polluted air and condensation. It is for this reason why ventilation has become so important within recent years. Ventilation comes in many different forms, from simply opening a window, to installing small extractor fans or large air conditioning units. Whilst all of these methods succeed in replacing stale air with fresh air, they also affect the temperature within the building. In colder climates, warmer air within the building is replaced with cold air from outside and the same happens in warmer climates with colder air.

This is obviously a problem as it's not very efficient and will most likely lead to more expensive energy bills. Fortunately, there are devices available which can help to combat this problem. Heat recovery room ventilators facilitate ventilation within a room or building, without a significant effect on the temperature of the air. This is achieved through an internal component called a heat exchanger. The exchanger is made from many thin metal plates which create a large surface area. When air is forced through this exchanger, the heat from inside the building is absorbed by the plates so when fresh is pulled back in, it is heated and doesn't affect the internal climate of the building. In fact, a heat recovery ventilator can recover anything from 75% to 85% of the internal heat within a building or room.

It should also be noted than many of these devices can be used in warmer countries and have an option to stop warmer air outside of the building from entering. Although it's possible to install a building wide system, many users opt for small scale devices which work within a single room, for example within a bathroom or kitchen. The majority of small scale heat recovery ventilators are relatively small and can be installed within the majority of walls, whatever the depth. There are many other benefits to utilising these devices, including low operation costs, very little noise pollution and frost protection. As well as offering temperature controlled ventilation, heat recovery units can also act as all round air conditioning systems. For example, many of these devices contain sensors which allow them to control the internal humidity within a room or building.

This is particularly beneficial from a health perspective as high humidity can lead to mould growth and a whole array of illnesses. Along the same lines, some of these ventilators contain components which allow them to filter air pollutants such as pollen, dust and airborne chemicals. Many ventilators will feature smart capability, allowing them to sense the temperature and humidity of the surrounding air and act accordingly. The effect is a constant supply of fresh, clean air at a comfortable temperature for that location and time of the year. Whether it's in a school, office, hotel, restaurant or even just the home, heat recovery room ventilators can make a huge difference and offer a smarter and more energy efficient alternative to traditional devices.