I hear you on the maintenance side—those filters do add up, and it’s just one more thing on the list. I’ve had times where I forgot to swap them and the airflow dropped way off, which kind of defeats the purpose. But with how tight these new houses are, I’m not sure just opening a window cuts it anymore, especially in winter or when the neighbor’s mowing. Has anyone tried balancing both—using the ERV but still cracking windows when it makes sense? Wondering if that actually helps or just messes with the system.
Totally get what you’re saying—the filter changes are easy to forget, and yeah, costs add up over time. I’ve seen folks try to use both ERVs and windows, but honestly, the system seems happiest when it’s left alone. Still, sometimes you just want that blast of fresh air... especially after cooking something strong. Just gotta keep in mind that opening windows can throw off the balance a bit, but for a quick airing out, it shouldn’t hurt much.
Just gotta keep in mind that opening windows can throw off the balance a bit, but for a quick airing out, it shouldn’t hurt much.
Yeah, I’ve seen that too—sometimes you just need to crack a window after frying up bacon or something. As long as it’s not all the time, your system should be fine. Filters are easy to forget, but swapping them on schedule really does help everything run smoother.
As long as it’s not all the time, your system should be fine.
I get what you’re saying, but I’m not totally convinced it’s that simple. If you’re in a newer, super-tight house, even just opening a window for a few minutes can mess with the pressure and maybe even pull stuff into the attic or walls. Anyone actually checked their filters after a few months of regular window opening? I feel like mine gets dirtier way faster, but maybe that’s just me being paranoid.
- Newer homes are sealed up tight, so yeah, opening windows can throw things off balance.
- I’ve seen filters clog up faster in these situations, especially if you’re near a busy road or lots of pollen.
- Ever notice any drafts or musty smells after airing out? Sometimes that’s a sign stuff’s getting pulled from odd places.
- Curious if anyone’s actually tracked indoor air quality before and after regular window use... seems like it’d be worth checking.
