Heat Recovery Units (HRUs) are specialized systems designed to extract thermal energy from exhaust air and transfer it to incoming fresh air. This energy-efficient process helps precondition the air entering a building—either by preheating in cold conditions or precooling in warm climates—thereby reducing the load on HVAC systems. By utilizing energy that would otherwise be wasted, HRUs play a critical role in enhancing indoor comfort while lowering overall energy consumption and operational costs.
Commonly integrated into ventilation systems across commercial, industrial, and residential buildings, HRUs contribute significantly to sustainable building practices. Depending on design requirements, HRUs typically come in two configurations: Plate Heat Exchanger Recovery Units, which use static plates to transfer heat without mixing air streams, and Rotary Heat Exchanger Recovery Units, which feature a rotating wheel to efficiently transfer heat and moisture. These systems not only improve energy efficiency but also help reduce a building's carbon footprint, making them a smart investment for long-term environmental and economic benefits.