Technical and Economical analysis of heat recovery in building ventilation systems

Heat recovery in ventilation systems can be obtained from both the sensible fraction and the latent fraction. The possible sensible and total heat recovery depends on the climate and on the operating period. Total heat recovery is limited in winter by the humidity of the supply air; this lowers the exchange capacity in the heating period. Three different climates are considered (Milan, Rome, Palermo), evaluating the recovery for unitary air ventilation flow rate and the economic savings, also taking into account the reduction in the heating or cooling capacity. Heatl recovery in a ventilating system must always be evaluated, since the investment is often profitable.