Balanced ventilation systems simultaneously supply and exhaust equal volumes of air, typically 50-100 CFM, to maintain neutral building pressure. These systems prevent humidity accumulation and outdoor air infiltration problems common in tightly sealed homes. Energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) capture 50-80% of heating or cooling energy from exhaust air.
System Configuration
Balanced ventilation requires separate intake and exhaust ductwork, making installation more complex than single-duct systems. Supply air enters living spaces while exhaust air exits kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry areas. Dampers and controls ensure airflow balance across all zones.
Performance Benefits
Balanced systems maintain indoor humidity between 30-50% and eliminate negative pressure issues that draw in unconditioned air. Installation costs range from $2,000-$5,000 depending on home size and ductwork requirements. ASHRAE 62.2 recommends balanced ventilation for homes achieving high airtightness ratings below 5 air changes per hour at 50 Pascals.