HRV/ERV Code Fact Sheets

These fact sheets serve as a reference tool to help users unfamiliar with building codes quickly identify sections relevant to Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) and Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) within the thousands of pages of code text. They aim to clarify:

• When an HRV or ERV is required or allowed
• How to specify units that comply with code
• Key design and installation requirements for associated ventilation components

Intended Users Include:

• HRV/ERV Manufacturer Sales and Technical Staff
• Distributors
• HVAC Contractors
• Builders
• Building Designers

The fact sheets summarize requirements published by the International Code Council (ICC). However, users should note that individual states and jurisdictions often amend these codes during the adoption process. While the fact sheets reflect ICC model code minimums, users must verify local amendments for specific projects.

These summaries are not intended to represent best practice design, but rather provide a clear, accessible starting point for those specifying, selling, or installing residential HRVs and ERVs.

The fact sheets are focused on residential applications and are not intended for use in non-residential buildings or systems.

Some prior familiarity with building code structure and terminology is assumed. Users can access the ICC codes at: https://codes.iccsafe.org

2018 Codes

• 2018 International Residential Code (applies to one- and two-family homes) Fact Sheet
• 2018 International Mechanical Code (applies to dwelling units in multifamily buildings) Fact Sheet
• 2018 International Energy Conservation Code – Residential Provisions (applies to one- and two-family homes and multifamily buildings three stories or less) Fact Sheet
• 2018 International Energy Conservation Code – Commercial Provisions (applies to dwelling units in multifamily buildings more than three stories) Fact Sheet

2021 Codes

• 2021 International Residential Code (applies to one- and two-family homes) Fact Sheet
• 2021 International Mechanical Code (applies to dwelling units in multifamily buildings) Fact Sheet
• 2021 International Energy Conservation Code – Residential Provisions (applies to one- and two-family homes and multifamily buildings three stories or less) Fact Sheet
• 2021 International Energy Conservation Code – Commercial Provisions (applies to dwelling units in multifamily buildings more than three stories) Fact Sheet

2024 Codes

• 2024 International Residential Code (applies to one- and two-family homes) Fact Sheet
• 2024 International Mechanical Code (applies to dwelling units in multifamily buildings) Fact Sheet
• 2024 International Energy Conservation Code – Residential Provisions (applies to one- and two-family homes and multifamily buildings three stories or less) Fact Sheet
• 2024 International Energy Conservation Code – Commercial Provisions (applies to dwelling units in multifamily buildings more than three stories) Fact Sheet