Venmar AVS® N Series HRV A160H75RT Air Exchanger | Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, South Shore and North Shore
Is it the right size for your home?
It delivers 150 cfm net, enough to ventilate 1,700 to 2,800 sq ft. Choose your home's living area.
It's the right size.
For a 1,500 to 2,500 sq ft home, about 105 cfm of air needs to be renewed continuously. This unit delivers 150 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
$27.33
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 everywhere in the province. 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 67% at 66 cfm.
Airflow and efficiency: manufacturer's data; airflow at 0.4 in and power draw from the V160H75RT spec sheet. Cost: 28 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.
35–159 cfmSet airflow from 35 to 159 cfm right on the unit
The built-in LCD sets the desired airflow, an electronic device measures airflow in real time and a diagnostic tool is built in. Virtuo then keeps the unit balanced for the life of the product.
PlusTwo defrost settings: Discretion or Plus
The factory Discretion setting defrosts without speed changes for more comfort; the Plus setting extends defrost for colder regions. It is selected in the screen options (DEF).
67%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.
DamperIt defrosts without depressurizing the house
In cold weather, a motorized damper closes the outdoor air intake and recirculates indoor air through the core to thaw it. The house doesn't go into negative pressure during the cycle: no cold air drawn in through leaks, and none of the imbalance manufacturers warn about when there's a fireplace or a combustion appliance.
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.
−9 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 159 to 150 cfm. Most spec sheets show only the first number, precisely because it looks better.
28 WMeasured at the airflow it actually runs at
Its 77% at 0 °C is measured at 64 cfm, the continuous airflow of a typical home. At that setting it draws 28 W, or about 245 kWh a year.
LifetimeThe core warranty
The core does the work and is the most expensive part to replace. Motors and parts: 5 years. We register the warranty in your name at commissioning.
6 inWhat it needs on site
6 in ducts, top connection and a condensate drain. It weighs 35 lb, and it needs enough clearance to slide the core out once a year.
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.
- 159 cfm
- Net airflow at 0.4 in. w.g.
- 150 cfm
- SRE at 0 °C (64 cfm)
- 77%
- SRE at −25 °C (66 cfm)
- 67%
- ASE at 0 °C
- 81%
- Power draw
- 28 W
- Efficacy
- 2.3 cfm/W
- Type
- HRV
- Connection
- Top ports
- Duct collars
- 6 in
- Condensate drain
- Required
- Defrost cycle
- Recirculation (motorized damper)
- Filters
- Washable MERV 8 filter and washable exhaust filter included (kit SV66133)
- Dimensions (L × D × H)
- 21 × 16.3 × 21.5 in
- Weight
- 35 lb
- Power supply
- 120 V
- Warranty — core
- Lifetime
- Warranty — motors
- 5 years
- Warranty — parts
- 5 years
Manufacturer's published data for this model; airflow at 0.4 in and power draw from the V160H75RT spec sheet, a model with identical published ratings. Annual consumption calculated at 28 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.
VRC Venmar AVS N Series A160H75RT – Residential Air Exchanger 159 CFM with Vertical Connection
At AirGreen, we know that a comfortable home depends not only on heating or air conditioning. Indoor air quality is an essential element of daily comfort, especially in modern Quebec homes, often very well insulated to retain heat in winter and improve energy efficiency.
However, a well-insulated home can also limit natural air renewal. Without adequate ventilation, humidity, odors, CO₂, fine particles, and stale air can remain trapped inside. This is exactly where a high-performance air exchanger becomes important.
The Venmar AVS N Series A160H75RT is an HRV — heat recovery ventilator — designed to ensure effective air renewal while recovering some of the heat contained in the exhausted air. With a flow rate of 159 PCM / CFM at 0.4”, a maximum sensible recovery efficiency of 77.0%, vertical connection, and a recirculation defrost cycle, this model represents a reliable solution to improve indoor comfort in homes in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore.
The Venmar A160H75RT is an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a compact, efficient air exchanger well suited to Quebec’s climate realities.
An effective ventilation solution for Quebec homes
In Quebec, homes are designed to withstand cold winters and significant temperature variations. Good insulation helps reduce heat loss but can also prevent indoor air from naturally renewing.
In a home without adequate ventilation, the air can quickly become heavy, humid, or filled with odors. Cooking, showers, washing, occupants’ breathing, pets, and certain building materials can all contribute to the degradation of indoor air quality.
The VRC Venmar A160H75RT helps address this issue by exhausting stale indoor air and bringing in fresh air from outside. At the same time, it recovers some of the heat contained in the outgoing air to reduce energy loss.
Unlike simple mechanical ventilation, an HRV not only expels air from the house. It also recovers some of the energy already used to heat the indoor space. It’s a much smarter solution for homes located in a cold climate like Greater Montreal.
Why choose the Venmar A160H75RT?
The Venmar AVS N Series A160H75RT is designed to offer a good balance between airflow, efficiency, compact size, and ease of installation. With a capacity of 159 CFM, it is suitable for several residential applications where reliable and constant ventilation is necessary.
Its vertical connection is particularly convenient in installations where ducts must be directed upward. This configuration is very suitable for many mechanical rooms, basements, and technical spaces where the ventilation network is designed with upper outlets.
The right choice of an air exchanger always depends on the house itself: area, number of occupants, insulation level, humidity rate, duct configuration, and actual ventilation needs. At AirGreen, we always evaluate these elements before recommending a model.
Main technical features
Here is the important information for the Venmar AVS N Series A160H75RT model:
Model: A160H75RT
Type of air exchanger: VRC
Energy Star: No
Voltage: 115 V
Dimensions: 16.30 × 21.00 × 21.50 in
Manufacturer’s warranty: 5-1-0
Defrost cycle: Recirculation
Maximum sensible recovery efficiency: 77.0%
Airflow: 159.0 PCM / CFM at 0.4”
Connection: Vertical
These features make the Venmar A160H75RT a device well suited for homes that require effective ventilation, reliable heat recovery, and a clean installation with upward-oriented ducts.
A flow rate of 159 CFM for reliable residential ventilation
With its flow rate of 159 PCM / CFM, the Venmar A160H75RT offers an interesting capacity for several types of residences. This level of ventilation allows for effective indoor air renewal when the device is properly sized and correctly installed.
A flow rate that is too low may be insufficient to remove moisture, odors, and stale air. Conversely, a device that is too powerful may be unnecessarily oversized for some homes. The A160H75RT therefore represents a balanced choice for many residential installations.
At AirGreen, we place great importance on sizing. Good ventilation always starts with a serious assessment of the home's actual needs.
Maximum sensible recovery efficiency of 77.0%
The Venmar A160H75RT offers a maximum sensible recovery efficiency of 77.0%. This performance indicates that the device can recover a significant portion 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 while limiting heat loss. The result is a better-ventilated, more comfortable, and more energy-efficient home.
Good heat recovery is essential to ventilate a Quebec home without unnecessarily wasting the energy already produced by the heating system.
Virtuo Air Technology for intelligent balancing
The Venmar AVS N Series A160H75RT benefits from Virtuo Air Technology, a technology designed to facilitate airflow calibration and the device’s self-balancing.
Balancing is a very important step when installing an air exchanger. If the incoming and outgoing air are not properly adjusted, performance can be reduced. Poor balance can also create negative or positive pressure in the house, which can cause discomfort, uncontrolled air infiltration, or less effective ventilation.
Virtuo technology helps maintain a more stable and better-controlled airflow throughout the device’s lifespan. For homeowners, this means more consistent ventilation. For installers, it allows for more precise and efficient startup.
Integrated LCD screen and convenient diagnostics
The Venmar A160H75RT is also designed to simplify installation, adjustment, and maintenance. Its integrated LCD screen allows selecting the desired airflow and obtaining useful information about the device’s operation.
The integrated diagnostic system is also a significant advantage. It helps identify certain anomalies or adjustment needs more easily, simplifying checks and helping maintain good long-term performance.
An intelligent air exchanger not only facilitates installation but also maintenance and system monitoring over time.
PMSM ECM motors for reduced consumption
The Venmar AVS N Series A160H75RT is equipped with PMSM ECM motors, designed to provide effective ventilation with reduced electrical consumption. These motors maintain a reliable airflow while using less energy than a traditional motor.
In a house where the air exchanger operates regularly, the quality of the motors is an important factor. Efficient motors contribute to comfort, system durability, and better operational stability.
This design makes the A160H75RT particularly appealing to homeowners who want to improve indoor air quality while maintaining an energy-conscious approach.
Recirculation defrosting: an important advantage in winter
The recirculation defrost cycle is an essential feature in a cold climate like Quebec’s. When outdoor temperatures are very low, an air exchanger can be exposed to frost formation. Recirculation defrosting helps protect the heat recovery core and maintain proper system operation.
This mode manages cold periods more steadily by temporarily recirculating indoor air to reduce frost buildup.
Recirculation defrosting is especially important to ensure reliable ventilation during the winters in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore.
MERV 8 filtration to protect the system
The Venmar A160H75RT is designed with MERV 8 filtration, which helps trap certain airborne particles and protect the internal components of the device.
Good filtration helps maintain stable airflow and consistent performance. As with any air exchanger, regular filter maintenance is essential. Dirty filters can reduce airflow, increase motor strain, and decrease overall system efficiency.
At AirGreen, we always recommend checking and cleaning filters based on the actual use of the device, home conditions, and manufacturer recommendations.
A convenient vertical connection for multiple configurations
The vertical connection of the Venmar AVS N Series A160H75RT allows for efficient installation in various types of homes. In some mechanical spaces, ducts must be directed upward rather than sideways. A model with a vertical connection can then simplify duct routing and make the installation cleaner.
This setup is especially useful in basements, mechanical rooms, technical spaces, or replacement projects of an old air exchanger when the existing layout favors a top outlet.
At AirGreen, we always check the site configuration before recommending a device. The right model must meet both ventilation needs and installation constraints.
A compact and easy-to-integrate size
With its dimensions of 16.30 × 21.00 × 21.50 in, the Venmar A160H75RT offers a compact size that makes it easy to integrate into many residential environments. It can suit installations where available space is limited while providing a good ventilation capacity.
However, it is important to allow sufficient clearance around the unit to enable access to filters, the recovery core, ducts, and internal components.
A well-planned installation facilitates future maintenance and helps extend the air exchanger’s lifespan.
Advantages of the Venmar AVS N Series A160H75RT
The Venmar VRC A160H75RT offers several important advantages:
159 CFM Airflow, suitable for many residential homes.
Maximum sensible recovery efficiency of 77.0%, for effective heat recovery.
Vertical Connection, convenient for installations with upward-oriented ducts.
Recirculation Defrost, suitable for Quebec winters.
Virtuo Air Technology, for smarter balancing.
Built-in LCD Screen, convenient for settings and information reading.
Integrated Diagnostics, useful for maintenance and inspections.
PMSM ECM Motors, efficient and reliable.
MERV 8 Filtration, to protect internal components.
Compact size, ideal for many residential mechanical spaces.
Standard 115 V Voltage, convenient for common residential installations.
5-1-0 Manufacturer Warranty, according to the manufacturer's conditions.
These advantages make the Venmar AVS N Series A160H75RT a solid option for homeowners seeking a reliable, compact, and efficient air exchanger.
Professional installation by AirGreen
Choosing the right air exchanger is important, but installation is just as crucial. A high-performance device can lose much of its efficiency if it is poorly installed, unbalanced, or improperly connected.
At AirGreen, we install ventilation, air conditioning, heating, and HVAC systems throughout Greater Montreal. Our team understands the realities of Quebec homes: limited mechanical spaces, finished basements, existing ducts, old air exchangers to replace, humidity issues, and specific needs depending on each property.
We serve in particular:
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 home.
Why trust AirGreen?
At AirGreen, we don’t just install a device. We analyze the home as a whole to propose 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 full support before, during, and after installation.
A smart choice to improve indoor air quality
The Venmar AVS N Series A160H75RT is an excellent option for homeowners who want to improve their home's ventilation with a compact, reliable, and well-designed device. Thanks to its flow rate of 159 CFM, maximum sensible recovery efficiency of 77.0%, recirculation defrost, Virtuo technology, and vertical connection, it meets the needs of many Quebec residences.
In a well-insulated home, an air exchanger is often essential to maintain good indoor air quality. It helps remove stale air, reduce excess humidity, and bring in fresh air in a controlled manner.
In conclusion
The VRC Venmar AVS N Series A160H75RT is a compact, efficient, and well-designed residential air exchanger. With its flow rate of 159 PCM / CFM, maximum sensible recovery efficiency of 77.0%, vertical connection, recirculation defrost, and Virtuo Air Technology, 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 assist you with precision, seriousness, and professionalism.
Contact AirGreen today to learn more about installing the Venmar AVS N Series A160H75RT and discover the best ventilation solution for your home.