Direct Air ERV PVRE 70 Air Exchanger | Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, South Shore and North Shore
Is it the right size for your home?
It delivers 70 cfm net, enough to ventilate 800 to 1,300 sq ft. Choose your home's living area.
It's the right size.
For a 900 to 1,500 sq ft home, about 63 cfm of air needs to be renewed continuously. This unit delivers 70 cfm net — enough for the house, with extra capacity to boost ventilation for the bathroom and kitchen.
Calculation: 0.35 air changes per hour over the living volume, with 9 ft ceilings. Our estimator sets the exact airflow room by room, following CSA F326.
What it does, in numbers
$39.04
Electricity per year
Less than a 60 W light bulb
Bulbs left on day and night. Same calculation for every line: wattage × 8,760 h × 11.142 ¢/kWh.
Below the Code threshold for a new home. The Code requires 54% at −25 °C below 6,000 degree-days (Montréal, Laval, Longueuil and both shores) and 60% above that. This unit is rated at 34% at 59 cfm. The requirement applies to new buildings and major renovations: for a replacement, talk to us about your project before choosing.
Airflow and efficiency at 0 °C and −25 °C: HVI directory, Section III. Cost: 40 W over 8,760 h at Hydro-Québec's Rate D second tier (11.142 ¢/kWh).
What you should know about this one
Published, verifiable facts, not brochure claims.
9.75 inOnly 9.75 in high, fits above a false ceiling
With an 18.5 × 19.5 in footprint and a 9.75 in height, it suits small condos and apartments with no mechanical room, installed above a false ceiling. It can also go on a wall; the bracket is included.
WashableWater-washable, freeze-tolerant membrane core
The AHRI-certified enthalpy core uses a polymer membrane that is highly permeable to moisture. It tolerates freezing, can be washed with water and is ISO 846 certified for resistance to mould and bacteria.
34%What it still recovers at −25 °C
The only efficiency figure that matters for a Québec winter, and the one the Code uses. An efficiency quoted without its temperature means nothing; this one is measured at a test airflow of 59 cfm.
ExhaustIt defrosts by pausing the fresh air for a few minutes
In cold weather, the supply fan stops for a few minutes while the exhaust keeps running, so warm indoor air thaws the core. During the cycle the house is briefly under negative pressure; if you have a fireplace or a naturally vented combustion appliance, mention it to our estimator.
ERVIt moves moisture too, not just heat
An ERV transfers some moisture between the two airstreams. Useful in a house that gets too dry in winter or takes on a lot of humidity in summer. The trade-off: it generally recovers less heat than a comparable HRV.
2004915Its HVI certification number
Listed in Section III of the Home Ventilating Institute's certified products directory. Anyone can check it, and it's the first condition for the Rénoclimat grant.
−13 cfmWhat the ducts cost it
Between a nearly unrestricted test bench (0.2 in) and a real duct system (0.4 in), it drops from 83 to 70 cfm. Most spec sheets show only the first number, precisely because it looks better.
40 WMeasured at the airflow it actually runs at
Its 70% at 0 °C is certified at 51 cfm, the continuous airflow of a typical home. At that setting it draws 40 W, or about 350 kWh a year.
5 yearsThe core warranty
The core does the work and is the most expensive part to replace. Motors: 7 years. Parts: 5 years. We register the warranty in your name at commissioning.
4 inWhat it needs on site
4 in ducts, side connection. It weighs 32 lb, and it needs enough clearance to slide the core out once a year.
Rénoclimat: $500 to install or replace an HRV or ERV
First condition met: HVI Section III certified, No. 2004915. Second: your EnerGuide rating must improve between the two evaluations. Québec warns that an air exchanger installed on its own can increase a home's energy use; that's why we balance it to the calculated airflow rather than running it at full speed.
What it needs on site
In a condo with no floor drain, or with little ceiling clearance, we usually look at a side-port model instead. Our estimator checks the location, the drain and the duct route before ordering.
Complete spec sheetData and cited sources
- Net airflow at 0.2 in. w.g.
- 83 cfm
- Net airflow at 0.4 in. w.g.
- 70 cfm
- SRE at 0 °C (51 cfm)
- 70%
- SRE at −25 °C (59 cfm)
- 34%
- ASE at 0 °C
- 78%
- Power draw
- 40 W
- Efficacy
- 1.2 cfm/W
- Type
- ERV
- Connection
- Side ports
- Duct collars
- 4 in
- Defrost cycle
- Exhaust only (supply fan off)
- Filters
- 2 washable electrostatic filters (8.5 × 8 in)
- Dimensions (L × D × H)
- 19.63 × 18.5 × 9.75 in
- Weight
- 32 lb
- Power supply
- 120 V
- HVI certification (Section III)
- 2004915
- Warranty — core
- 5 years
- Warranty — motors
- 7 years
- Warranty — parts
- 5 years
Net airflow, efficiency at 0 °C and −25 °C, and power draw: Home Ventilating Institute certified products directory, Section III (HVID 2004915). Annual consumption calculated at 40 W running continuously for 8,760 h, at Hydro-Québec's Rate D second tier (11.142 ¢/kWh), in effect since April 1, 2026.
Talk to an HVAC technician before you choose
We calculate the airflow room by room, check the location and the drain, and give you an installed price. Balancing is measured at commissioning, not estimated.
VRE DirectAir PVRE 70 – Compact Residential Air Exchanger 70 CFM with Side Connection
At AirGreen, we know that a comfortable home depends not only on heating or air conditioning. Indoor air quality plays a vital role in daily well-being, especially in condos, apartments, and modern homes where air can quickly become stagnant, humid, or contaminated.
The DirectAir PVRE 70 is a ERV — energy recovery ventilator — designed to ensure effective air renewal while recovering some of the energy contained in the exhausted air. With a flow rate of 70.0 CFM at 0.4”, a side connection, a maximum sensible recovery efficiency of 70.0%, and a ventilation defrost cycle, this model offers a compact and practical solution to improve indoor air quality in small residential applications.
The PVRE 70 is an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a compact, reliable air exchanger well suited for condos, apartments, multi-residential buildings, and small houses in Greater Montreal.
An effective ventilation solution for small residential spaces
In Quebec, homes are often very well insulated to retain heat in winter and improve energy efficiency. This insulation is beneficial but can also limit natural air renewal. Without adequate ventilation, humidity, odors, CO₂, and stale air can remain trapped inside.
The VRE DirectAir PVRE 70 helps address this issue by exhausting contaminated indoor air and bringing in fresh air from outside. Its energy recovery core also transfers some of the energy between the two air streams, helping to maintain a better comfort balance.
Unlike simple mechanical ventilation, an ERV does not just expel indoor air. It also helps recover some of the energy already present in the home. This is a particularly interesting solution for well-insulated homes, condos, and apartments where mechanical space is limited.
Why choose the DirectAir PVRE 70?
The DirectAir PVRE 70 is designed for compact installations where a larger device would be difficult to integrate. Its reduced size allows it to be installed in tight spaces, notably above a suspended ceiling, in a limited technical space, or in certain wall configurations.
With a capacity of 70 CFM, this model is suitable for small homes, condos, apartments, and residential spaces that require constant ventilation without oversizing. It offers a good balance between compact size, efficiency, ease of installation, and ventilation performance.
Important point: the right choice of an air exchanger always depends on the building itself. Area, number of occupants, insulation level, humidity rate, duct configuration, and installation constraints must be evaluated before confirming the model.
Main technical features
Here is the important information about the DirectAir PVRE 70 model:
Model: PVRE 70
Type of air exchanger: VRE
Energy Star: No
Voltage: 115 V
Dimensions: 21.50 × 9.75 × 19.63 in
Manufacturer’s warranty: 5-1-0
Defrost cycle: Ventilation
Maximum sensible recovery efficiency: 70.0%
Airflow: 70.0 PCM / CFM at 0.4”
Connection: Side
These features make the PVRE 70 a device well suited for residential projects where effective ventilation is sought in a discreet and easy-to-integrate format.
A flow rate of 70 CFM for constant ventilation
With its flow rate of 70.0 PCM / CFM, the DirectAir PVRE 70 offers a capacity suited for small residential applications. This level of ventilation provides fresh air indoors while expelling an equivalent amount of stale air.
A flow rate that is too low may be insufficient to control humidity and remove odors. Conversely, a device that is too powerful can be unnecessarily bulky or poorly suited to a small space. The PVRE 70 therefore represents a balanced choice for condos, apartments, and small residences.
At AirGreen, we always assess the actual needs of the home before recommending an air exchanger. Good ventilation starts with proper sizing.
Maximum sensible recovery efficiency of 70.0%
The DirectAir PVRE 70 offers a maximum sensible recovery efficiency of 70.0%. This performance indicates that the unit can recover a significant portion of the heat contained in the exhausted air before releasing it outside.
In winter, this recovery is especially useful. It allows fresh air to enter while limiting heat loss. The result is a better-ventilated, more comfortable, and more energy-efficient home.
In a climate like Greater Montreal’s, good energy recovery is essential to ventilate without unnecessarily wasting the energy already used to heat or cool the indoor space.
ERV: heat and humidity recovery
The PVRE 70 is an ERV, which means it is designed to recover not only some of the heat but also some of the humidity depending on operating conditions. This difference is important compared to a traditional HRV.
In some homes, especially condos and apartments, humidity control can have a direct impact on comfort. An ERV can help maintain better indoor balance by limiting certain humidity differences between incoming and outgoing air.
This type of unit is particularly relevant when seeking more complete ventilation, adapted to comfort needs year-round.
A compact size for condos and apartments
The DirectAir PVRE 70 stands out for its compact size. With dimensions of 21.50 × 9.75 × 19.63 in, it can fit into spaces where a standard air exchanger would be too bulky.
This model is especially suitable for condos, apartments, and small installations where there is not always a large mechanical room. Its compact design allows for a more discreet installation, particularly in certain suspended ceilings or tight technical spaces.
Even though the unit is compact, it is important to allow sufficient access for maintenance. Filters, the core, fans, and the access panel must remain accessible to ensure long-term performance.
Convenient side connection
The DirectAir PVRE 70’s side connection is a significant advantage in many configurations. When ducts need to be directed horizontally, a side connection model can simplify installation and make duct routing cleaner.
This configuration is especially useful in suspended ceilings, narrow technical spaces, replacements of old devices, or installations where vertical access is limited.
At AirGreen, we always check the site configuration before recommending a model. The right air exchanger must meet both the ventilation needs and the physical constraints of the building.
Ventilation defrost cycle
The DirectAir PVRE 70 uses a ventilation defrost cycle. This function helps manage cold conditions when outdoor air can promote frost formation inside the device.
In a Quebec climate, defrosting is an important element to ensure stable operation during winter. The system must continue to protect its components while maintaining ventilation adapted to the home’s needs.
For homeowners in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore, this feature is especially relevant during cold periods.
Energy recovery core
The DirectAir PVRE 70 is equipped with a energy recovery core. This component is at the heart of an ERV’s operation. It allows energy transfer between the exhausted indoor air and the fresh incoming air without directly mixing the two air streams.
This principle allows for the renewal of indoor air while reducing energy losses. In a well-insulated home, this type of recovery helps maintain better comfort while improving ventilation.
A well-maintained core helps the device maintain stable performance. That’s why regular maintenance is essential.
Washable electrostatic filters
The PVRE 70 is designed with washable electrostatic filters. These filters help protect the internal components of the device and maintain good airflow.
As with any air exchanger, filter maintenance is very important. Dirty filters can reduce airflow, increase motor effort, and decrease the overall efficiency of the system.
At AirGreen, we always recommend checking and cleaning the filters according to the actual use of the device and the manufacturer's recommendations.
No drain required
A practical advantage of the DirectAir PVRE 70 is that it does not require a drain. This feature can simplify installation, especially in condos, apartments, or technical spaces where connecting to a drain can be more complex.
The absence of a drain can also facilitate certain ceiling or wall installations, depending on the building configuration. This is an important detail when working in tight or already finished spaces.
Ceiling or wall installation
The DirectAir PVRE 70 can be installed on the ceiling or wall with a mounting bracket. This flexibility is a major advantage for small homes and spaces where installing a traditional air exchanger would be difficult.
In some condos, a suspended ceiling can offer a discreet solution. In other cases, a wall installation may be more practical for access and maintenance.
At AirGreen, we always analyze accessibility, duct routing, necessary clearances, and future maintenance before choosing the final location.
Multi-speed operation
The multi-speed operation allows ventilation to be adjusted according to needs. A lower speed can be used for daily ventilation, while a higher speed can be useful when humidity increases or when indoor air needs to be renewed more quickly.
This flexibility contributes to occupant comfort and allows better adaptation to seasonal variations, the number of people in the home, and the use of rooms such as the kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room.
4-inch round ducts
The DirectAir PVRE 70 uses fittings for 4-inch round ducts, which is convenient for many small residential installations. This duct size can facilitate integrating the device into tight spaces.
However, good duct design remains essential. Undersized, too long, crushed, or poorly insulated ducts can reduce the device's performance. Professional installation helps maximize actual airflow and reduce losses.
Advantages of the DirectAir PVRE 70
The VRE DirectAir PVRE 70 offers several important advantages:
70 CFM airflow, ideal for condos, apartments, and small houses
Maximum sensible recovery efficiency of 70.0%
Side connection, convenient for suspended ceilings and tight spaces
Ventilation defrost cycle, suited for cold conditions
Compact size, easy to integrate into small spaces
Energy recovery core, to recover heat and humidity depending on conditions
Washable electrostatic filters, convenient for maintenance
No drain required, simplifying installation
Installation possible on ceiling or wall
Multi-speed operation, to adjust ventilation to needs
Standard 115 V Voltage, convenient for residential installations
5-1-0 Manufacturer’s Warranty, according to the manufacturer’s conditions
These advantages make the PVRE 70 a solid option for homeowners looking for a compact, efficient ventilation solution suited to small spaces.
Professional installation by AirGreen
Choosing the right air exchanger is important, but installation is just as crucial. A high-performance device can lose some of its efficiency if it is poorly installed, improperly connected, or unbalanced.
At AirGreen, we install ventilation, heating, air conditioning, and HVAC systems in Greater Montreal. Our team understands the realities of Quebec homes and condos: limited mechanical spaces, suspended ceilings, existing ducts, difficult access, indoor humidity, and specific needs depending on each property.
We serve, among others:
Montreal
Laval
Longueuil
Boucherville
Brossard
Saint Bruno
Repentigny
Terrebonne
Saint-Eustache
The North Shore
The South Shore
Our goal is simple: to provide a clean, durable installation tailored to the real needs of each client.
Why trust AirGreen?
At AirGreen, we don’t just install a device. We analyze the entire home to offer a solution that truly meets the client’s needs.
We assess the layout, accessibility, existing ducts, humidity level, area, number of occupants, and homeowner expectations. This approach allows us to recommend a suitable air exchanger and carry out a professional installation.
With AirGreen, you benefit from local expertise, professional service, and comprehensive support before, during, and after installation.
A smart choice to improve indoor air quality
The DirectAir PVRE 70 is an excellent option for homeowners who want to improve their home's ventilation with a compact, practical, and efficient device. Thanks to its flow rate of 70 CFM, maximum sensible recovery efficiency of 70.0%, side connection, and reduced size, it meets the needs of many small Quebec homes.
In a condo, apartment, or well-insulated small house, an air exchanger is often essential to maintain good indoor air quality. It helps remove stale air, reduce excess humidity, limit persistent odors, and bring in fresh air in a controlled way.
In conclusion
The VRE DirectAir PVRE 70 is a compact, efficient, and well-designed residential air exchanger. With its flow rate of 70.0 PCM / CFM at 0.4”, maximum sensible recovery efficiency of 70.0%, side connection, ventilation defrost cycle, and format suited for small spaces, it represents a serious solution to improve indoor air quality.
For homeowners in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore, this model can be an excellent choice when properly sized and installed by professionals.
At AirGreen, we pride ourselves on offering ventilation solutions tailored to the real needs of our clients. Whether replacing an old air exchanger or installing a new system, our team is ready to support you with precision, seriousness, and professionalism.
Contact AirGreen today to learn more about installing the DirectAir PVRE 70 and discover the best ventilation solution for your house, condo, or apartment.