When you specify or buy a heat recovery unit, third-party standards tell you the numbers are comparable and real. Knowing the key marks helps avoid inflated claims.
Testing Standards
- AHRI 1060: North American rating method for air-to-air heat exchangers.
- EN 308: European test method for heat transfer in recovery components.
- ISO 16494: International method for rotary exchangers.
- ASHRAE 84: General method for energy recovery devices.
Performance Marks and Directives
- Eurovent certification: Independent verification of rated efficiency in Europe.
- ErP (EcoDesign): EU minimum efficiency thresholds for energy-related products.
- Passive House Component criteria: Strict effectiveness and leakage limits for PH-certified units.
- ENERGY STAR / local codes: Regional thresholds for ventilation equipment.
What to Ask a Supplier
- Which standard was used for the rated effectiveness?
- Is the unit third-party certified (Eurovent, Passive House)?
- Does it meet local ErP or code minimums?
- Are leakage and pressure-drop measured at the same airflow?
Reading a test report is a skill worth having. Confirm the rating method, the airflow at which effectiveness was measured, and whether the condition was dry or wet, because all three move the number. A Eurovent or Passive House listing tells you the figure was reproduced by a third party, not just claimed. Match the standard to your market: AHRI 1060 and ASHRAE 84 in North America, EN 308 and ISO 16494 in Europe and internationally. Then check the leakage and pressure-drop basis, since a high-effectiveness core with poor seals or a steep curve can under-deliver in the field. Our supplier verification guide walks through what to request before purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all efficiency numbers comparable?
Only when tested to the same standard at the same airflow and conditions; always check the basis.
Does certification matter for small units?
Yes – it protects you from overstated claims and supports code compliance and rebates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all efficiency numbers comparable?
Only when tested to the same standard at the same airflow and conditions; always check the basis.
Does certification matter for small units?
Yes - it protects you from overstated claims and supports code compliance and rebates.
Specify the right heat exchanger
Our engineers size the core to your airflow, temperature and pressure-drop budget, and select plate, rotary or heat-pipe recovery by application. Read the heat exchanger guide or contact us for a specification.
Related products
Plate, wheel or pipe recovery for HVAC and ventilation.
Stationary, high-surface-area cores for air and liquid.
High-effectiveness energy recovery for large airflows.
Passive, fully separated streams for clean applications.