Do I need exhaust fans for bathrooms if I have an ERV that is connected to them?
I have spray foam in walls and ceiling and an erv that is connected to the bathrooms. Do Ii need exhaust fans in the bathrooms also?
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Using an ERV or HRV to pull exhaust air from the bathroom instead of a bathroom fan is an excellent alternative. A bathroom fan will depressurize the home and cause air to infiltrate through any holes in the building envelope, whereas if your heat recovery ventilation system is used as a bathroom fan then new air -warmed or cooled by exhaust air depending on the season – is very much preferrable. Does the bathroom fan switch have a timer on it? That is helpful as it will also boost the power of it to help remove moisture. Here is a page about why balanced air pressure in homes is essential for energy efficiency and durability.
Thinking the same thing with bathroom, elec dryer and kitchen vents. One bathroom has a steam shower, do you see any problems with the extra humidity there?
Just read this for ERV install:
Connecting appliances to the ERV is not recommended. These include: • Clothes dryer
• Range top • Stovetop fan • Central vacuum system • Bathroom exhaust fans unless they are specifically designed for this purpose
These appliances may cause lint, dust or grease to collect in the ERV, damaging the unit.