In energy recovery ventilation systems, what type of heat is allowed to be recovered according to the exception?

In energy recovery ventilation systems, the recovery of sensible heat is particularly important because it refers to the heat that affects the temperature of the air without changing its moisture content. This type of heat transfer can be effectively utilized to pre-condition incoming ventilation air by transferring heat from the exhaust air stream to the fresh air stream being brought into a building.

Sensible heat recovery enhances the overall energy efficiency of HVAC systems by reducing the demand on heating and cooling systems, allowing for more controlled indoor climates. In many energy recovery systems, the primary focus is on managing the temperature of the air, which is crucial for maintaining comfort levels in a building while minimizing energy consumption.

While latent heat does involve moisture content and is also significant in HVAC systems, the specific exception in the context of energy recovery ventilation typically highlights the importance of sensible heat recovery. This limitation is meant to ensure a straightforward application of energy recovery methods that focus on temperature control, thereby simplifying the design and operation of these systems.

Understanding this principle allows HVAC professionals to design systems that maximize energy efficiency while ensuring proper ventilation, making sensible heat recovery a central concept in energy recovery ventilation strategies.