05/29/2026
So check this out...
ERV's are a difference maker when Deep Energy Retrofitting a building. Got it. But how those ERV's and air handlers are insulated? How the ductwork is installed?
Some would argue that the ducts do not need insulation since they are in a conditioned space within the thermal envelope, but there would still be condensation risk under extreme weather conditions (either extremely cold or extremely hot and humid).
When you have a PHIUS-certified professional like overseeing the work, who specifically removes existing insulation out of the attic floor and installs new insulation between the roof rafters to bring the mechanical space into the thermal envelope? Now you're really changing the game.
Notice the ductwork running through a fire rated ceiling. The duct penetrations are covered with 2 layers of 5/8” drywall to match the rating of the ceiling, and firecaulked. Look even more closely and you can see the maximized amount of straight ducting coming off of the ERVs before putting any bends into the system because it helps to increase the efficiency of the unit.
And that, ladies and gentlemen, is how you put the Deep in Deep Energy Retrofitting!