Direct Air HRV PHRV 96 Air Exchanger | Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, South Shore and North Shore
Is it the right size for your home?
It delivers 59 cfm net, enough to ventilate 700 to 1,100 sq ft. Choose your home's living area.
It's the right size.
For a condo or a home under 900 sq ft, about 37 cfm of air needs to be renewed continuously. This unit delivers 59 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
$40.99
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.
Meets the Québec Construction Code for Greater Montréal. 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 57% at 66 cfm.
Airflow and efficiency at 0 °C and −25 °C: HVI directory, Section III. Cost: 42 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.
BalancedNo balancing needed at installation
Its two factory-balanced ebm motors have steep fan curves, so Direct Air states that no airflow balancing is required. Commissioning is simpler as a result.
Plug-in3 ft plug-in power cord
It plugs into an electrical outlet with its 3 ft (914 mm) cord, with no hard-wiring. The supplied wall bracket makes mounting easy.
57%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 66 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.
HRVIt recovers heat, not moisture
Excess moisture leaves the house. In Québec, that's the right choice in most cases: in winter, the problem is almost always too much humidity, not too little.
2505157Its 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.
−15 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 74 to 59 cfm. Most spec sheets show only the first number, precisely because it looks better.
42 WMeasured at the airflow it actually runs at
Its 63% at 0 °C is certified at 66 cfm, the continuous airflow of a typical home. At that setting it draws 42 W, or about 368 kWh a year.
LifetimeThe 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, top connection and a condensate drain. It weighs 26 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. 2505157. 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.
- 74 cfm
- Net airflow at 0.4 in. w.g.
- 59 cfm
- SRE at 0 °C (66 cfm)
- 63%
- SRE at −25 °C (66 cfm)
- 57%
- ASE at 0 °C
- 70%
- Power draw
- 42 W
- Efficacy
- 1.5 cfm/W
- Type
- HRV
- Connection
- Top ports
- Duct collars
- 4 in
- Condensate drain
- Required
- Defrost cycle
- Exhaust only (supply fan off)
- Filters
- 2 washable electrostatic filters (8.5 × 8 in)
- Dimensions (L × D × H)
- 21.5 × 10.25 × 17.12 in
- Weight
- 26 lb
- Power supply
- 120 V
- HVI certification (Section III)
- 2505157
- Warranty — core
- Lifetime
- 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 2505157). Annual consumption calculated at 42 W running continuously for 8,760 h, at Hydro-Québec's Rate D second tier (11.142 ¢/kWh), in effect since April 1, 2026.
The next model down and up
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.
DirectAir PHRV 96 HRV – Compact Residential Air Exchanger 59 CFM with Vertical Connection
At AirGreen, we know that a comfortable home depends on more than just heating or air conditioning. Indoor air quality plays a vital role in daily comfort, especially in modern, well-insulated homes where air can quickly become stagnant, humid, or odor-laden.
The DirectAir PHRV 96 is an HRV — heat recovery ventilator designed to provide controlled air renewal while recovering some of the heat contained in the exhausted air. With a flow rate of 59.0 CFM at 0.4”, vertical connection, a maximum sensible recovery efficiency of 63.0%, a super compact design, and a defrost cycle in ventilation mode, this model offers a practical solution for small residential spaces, condos, apartments, and installations with limited mechanical space.
The PHRV 96 is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a compact, simple, reliable air exchanger well suited to basic ventilation needs in a Quebec residence.
A compact ventilation solution for Quebec houses and condos
In Quebec, houses, condos, and apartments are often well insulated to retain heat during winter. This insulation improves energy efficiency but can also reduce natural air renewal. When air circulation is insufficient, humidity, odors, CO₂, and stale air can become trapped inside.
The DirectAir PHRV 96 HRV helps address this issue by exhausting contaminated indoor air and bringing in fresh air from outside. At the same time, its sensible recovery core transfers some of the heat from the outgoing air to the incoming air.
Unlike simple mechanical ventilation, an HRV does more than just expel air from the home. It also tempers the incoming fresh air to reduce heat loss during the cold season. It’s a smart solution to improve air quality without wasting the energy already used to heat the home.
Why choose the DirectAir PHRV 96?
The DirectAir PHRV 96 is designed for applications where a compact, lightweight, and easy-to-integrate unit is needed. With a capacity of 59 CFM at 0.4”, it is especially suitable for small residential spaces, condos, apartments, housing units, and projects with moderate ventilation needs.
Its vertical connection and top-port design are very practical in tight spaces. When ducts need to be directed upward, this type of configuration allows for a simpler, cleaner, and better-suited installation in certain mechanical spaces.
The PHRV 96 is also interesting for replacing old compact air exchangers or for projects aiming to improve air renewal without installing an overly bulky unit.
Important point: the right choice of an air exchanger always depends on the house itself. The area, number of occupants, humidity level, duct configuration, insulation, and actual ventilation needs must always be evaluated before installation.
Main technical features
Here is the important information about the DirectAir PHRV 96 model:
Model: PHRV 96
Brand: DirectAir
Type of air exchanger: VRC
Energy Star: No
Voltage: 115 V
Dimensions: 21.50 × 10.25 × 17.12 in
Manufacturer’s warranty: 5-1-0
Defrost cycle: Ventilation
Maximum sensible recovery efficiency: 63.0%
Airflow: 59.0 CFM at 0.4”
Connection: Vertical
These features make the PHRV 96 a well-suited device for residential installations where compactness, simplicity, and reliability are priorities.
An airflow of 59 CFM for small residential spaces
With its airflow of 59 CFM at 0.4”, the DirectAir PHRV 96 is designed for more modest ventilation needs than large residential air exchangers. This airflow can be very relevant for a condo, apartment, small dwelling, or residential area requiring controlled air renewal.
An overly powerful unit can be unnecessarily oversized in some spaces. Conversely, a compact model like the PHRV 96 can provide a more logical solution when actual needs do not justify a large-capacity air exchanger.
At AirGreen, we always assess the required airflow based on the home's configuration. Good ventilation starts with proper sizing.
Maximum sensible recovery efficiency of 63.0%
The DirectAir PHRV 96 offers a maximum sensible recovery efficiency of 63.0%. This performance allows recovering some of the heat contained in the exhausted air before releasing it outside.
In winter, this heat recovery is especially useful. It allows fresh air to enter without unnecessarily cooling the interior space. Even in a compact installation, this sensible recovery helps improve comfort and reduce energy losses associated with ventilation.
For a well-insulated house or condo, this function is important. It allows air renewal while respecting the realities of the Quebec climate.
A simple and efficient VRC without recirculation
The PHRV 96 is a VRC without recirculation. Its operation focuses on supplying fresh air and exhausting stale air, with sensible heat recovery between the two air streams.
This type of design is particularly interesting for installations where the main goal is clear: bring in fresh air, expel contaminated air, and recover some of the heat.
Operation without recirculation can be an advantage in some residential projects, especially when continuous, simple, and easy-to-understand ventilation is desired.
Defrost cycle in ventilation mode
The defrost cycle in ventilation mode is an important feature of the DirectAir PHRV 96. In a cold climate like Quebec’s, an air exchanger can be exposed to frost formation when the outside air is very cold.
The PHRV 96 is designed with an automatic defrost mechanism that allows the device to continue operating in ventilation mode. This design helps maintain air renewal even when outdoor conditions become more demanding.
For homeowners in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore, this feature is important. An air exchanger must be able to operate under real conditions, including the cold periods of the Quebec winter.
A super compact size for tight spaces
One of the major advantages of the DirectAir PHRV 96 is its compact size. With dimensions of 21.50 × 10.25 × 17.12 in, it can be installed in many places where a larger air exchanger would be difficult to fit.
This format is particularly convenient for condos, apartments, small technical rooms, tight mechanical spaces, or replacement projects where available space is limited.
A compact device does not mean a less serious installation. Adequate access must still be provided for maintenance, filters, the recovery core, ducts, and future inspections.
At AirGreen, we pay special attention to the accessibility of the device. A well-planned installation makes maintenance easier and helps extend the system's lifespan.
Vertical connection and top-port design
The vertical connection of the DirectAir PHRV 96 is very useful in many residential configurations. Ducts can be directed upward, facilitating integration into certain mechanical spaces, technical closets, or compact installations.
The top-port design is particularly advantageous when lateral space is limited. In some condos or apartments, every inch counts. A device with vertical connection can simplify duct routing and make the installation cleaner.
This configuration is also useful when replacing an old air exchanger already connected vertically. It can reduce installation complexity when the existing layout is compatible.
Easy-to-install wall mount
The PHRV 96 is designed with a practical wall mount. This feature facilitates installation and allows the device to be securely fixed in a suitable technical space.
A good wall support is important to ensure a safe, clean, and durable installation. It also allows positioning the device at a convenient height for maintenance.
In tight spaces, wall mounting can be a significant advantage. It frees up floor space and better organizes ducts, drains, and service access.
Aluminum recovery core
The DirectAir PHRV 96 is equipped with an aluminum heat recovery core. This core allows heat transfer between the outgoing and incoming air while keeping the two flows separate.
The stale air leaving the house transfers part of its heat to the fresh air entering. This recovery helps reduce the energy impact of ventilation, especially during the cold months.
The aluminum core is an important component of the device. As with any HRV, it must be accessible for maintenance and periodic inspection.
Washable electrostatic filters
The PHRV 96 is equipped with washable electrostatic filters. These filters help protect the core and internal components of the device from certain dust and particles present in the air.
The advantage of washable filters is their ease of maintenance. They can be removed, cleaned, and reinstalled according to the manufacturer's recommendations and the actual use of the device.
Clean filters help maintain good airflow, reduce motor effort, and preserve the overall efficiency of the system. At AirGreen, we always recommend regular filter maintenance to ensure consistent and sustainable ventilation.
Easy-access service door
The DirectAir PHRV 96 is designed with a service door that makes internal components easy to access. This feature is very convenient for regular maintenance, filter cleaning, and core inspection.
An air exchanger must remain accessible after installation. If the unit is placed in a cramped or poorly positioned spot, maintenance becomes harder and performance may suffer over time.
That’s why AirGreen always checks the available space before installation. Good accessibility is a key element of a well-designed system.
4-inch duct connections
The PHRV 96 uses 4-inch duct connections, which suit its compact size and ventilation capacity. This duct size can be practical in some residential projects where space is limited.
Proper duct connection is essential. Poorly installed, too long, crushed, or poorly insulated ducts can reduce airflow and harm HRV performance.
At AirGreen, we pay attention to duct routing, joint sealing, and overall installation quality. A compact air exchanger can deliver good results only if installed correctly.
No balancing required: simplified installation
The DirectAir PHRV 96 is designed with a simple approach that doesn’t require traditional balancing. This can be an advantage in some installations, especially when looking for a compact and direct solution.
Even though the unit is designed to simplify installation, it remains important to follow best practices: choosing ducts, positioning grilles, clearances, service access, duct insulation, and operation checks.
At AirGreen, we don’t just install the unit. We ensure the installation matches the actual needs of the home.
3-foot power cord
The PHRV 96 comes with a 3-foot power cord, making it easy to plug in various residential setups. Its 115 V voltage is also convenient for many standard installations.
However, the location of the unit must be chosen carefully so that the electrical supply is safe, compliant, and accessible.
As always, professional installation helps avoid improvisation and ensures reliable long-term operation.
Multi-speed operation
The DirectAir PHRV 96 offers multi-speed operation, allowing ventilation to be adjusted according to needs. This flexibility is useful in a house or dwelling where requirements may vary depending on the season, occupancy, or humidity level.
Lower ventilation can suit daily operation, while a higher speed can be useful in certain situations, for example when there are more occupants or moisture buildup.
This flexibility makes the PHRV 96 more practical for everyday residential use.
A lightweight and easy-to-integrate unit
Weighing about 26 lb, the DirectAir PHRV 96 is a lightweight unit compared to many more powerful residential air exchangers. This weight makes handling and installation easier in tight spaces.
This lightness is especially useful in condos, apartments, and small mechanical rooms where access can be more challenging.
Despite its compact size, installation must always be done carefully. Proper positioning of the unit, duct quality, and maintenance access remain essential.
Advantages of the DirectAir PHRV 96
The VRC DirectAir PHRV 96 offers several important advantages:
59 CFM airflow, suitable for small residential spaces
Super compact size, convenient for condos, apartments, and tight spaces
Vertical connection, ideal for several top-port configurations
Maximum sensible recovery efficiency of 63.0%
Aluminum recovery core
Washable electrostatic filters, easy to maintain
Defrost cycle in ventilation mode
4-inch duct connections
Wall mount included, convenient for a clean installation
Easy-access service door
3-foot power cord
Multi-speed operation
No balancing required, according to the device design
Lightweight at about 26 lb
Standard voltage of 115 V
These advantages make the PHRV 96 an attractive solution for homeowners looking for a compact, simple, practical, and reliable air exchanger.
Professional installation by AirGreen
Choosing the right air exchanger is important, but the installation is just as crucial. A compact unit can lose efficiency if it is poorly connected, poorly positioned, or installed with inadequate ducts.
At AirGreen, we install ventilation, air conditioning, heating, and HVAC systems throughout Greater Montreal. Our team understands the realities of Quebec homes: condos, plexes, older houses, tight mechanical spaces, existing ducts, finished basements, and replacement projects.
We serve especially Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, Boucherville, Brossard, Saint-Bruno, Repentigny, Terrebonne, Saint-Eustache, the North Shore, and the South Shore.
Our goal is simple: to provide a clean, sustainable installation tailored to the real needs of each home.
Why trust AirGreen?
At AirGreen, we don’t recommend an air exchanger just because it appears on a technical sheet. We analyze the house or apartment as a whole to propose a solution that truly meets the client’s needs.
We assess the layout, accessibility, type of ducts, area, number of occupants, humidity level, insulation, and the owner’s expectations.
This approach allows us to recommend a suitable model and avoid common mistakes: device too powerful, device insufficient, poor connection, difficult access, or complicated maintenance.
With AirGreen, you benefit from local expertise, professional service, and full support before, during, and after installation.
A smart choice to improve indoor air quality
The DirectAir PHRV 96 is an excellent option for homeowners who want to improve ventilation in a compact residential space. Thanks to its 59 CFM flow rate, super compact size, vertical connection, aluminum core, and washable filters, it meets the needs of many condos, apartments, and small technical spaces.
In a well-insulated home, an air exchanger helps maintain better indoor air quality. It helps remove stale air, reduce excess humidity, and bring in fresh air in a controlled way.
The PHRV 96 is not an oversized device. It is a compact and targeted model designed to meet specific needs.
In conclusion
The VRC DirectAir PHRV 96 is a compact, practical, and well-designed residential air exchanger. With its flow rate of 59 CFM at 0.4”, its maximum sensible recovery efficiency of 63.0%, its vertical connection, its defrost cycle in ventilation mode, its aluminum core, and washable electrostatic filters, it represents a serious solution for small residential spaces.
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 it’s to replace an old air exchanger or to install a new compact system, our team is ready to assist you with precision, seriousness, and professionalism.
Contact AirGreen today to learn more about installing the DirectAir PHRV 96 and discover the best ventilation solution for your house, condo, or apartment.