Venmar AVS® N Series HRV A160H80RT 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
$17.57
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 V160H80RT spec sheet. Cost: 18 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.
WashableWashable HRV core
At the yearly fall service, this HRV's core comes out and soaks in cold or lukewarm water with mild dish soap, then is rinsed and left to dry before going back in.
ChainsHang it on chains or wall-mount it, hardware included
The unit hangs from the joists on the supplied chains, no springs needed, or mounts on the wall with 2 or 4 included universal brackets; the 4 screws must then go into a stud.
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.
18 WMeasured at the airflow it actually runs at
Its 82% at 0 °C is measured at 36 cfm, the continuous airflow of a typical home. At that setting it draws 18 W, or about 158 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 (36 cfm)
- 82%
- SRE at −25 °C (66 cfm)
- 67%
- ASE at 0 °C
- 88%
- Power draw
- 18 W
- Efficacy
- 2.0 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 V160H80RT spec sheet, a model with identical published ratings. Annual consumption calculated at 18 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.
Venmar AVS N Series A160H80RT HRV – 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 plays a crucial role in daily well-being, especially in modern well-insulated homes where air can quickly become stagnant, humid, or particle-laden.
The Venmar AVS N Series A160H80RT HRV is a heat recovery ventilator designed to ensure effective air renewal while recovering a significant portion of the heat contained in the exhausted air. With its flow rate of 159 CFM at 0.4”, maximum sensible recovery efficiency of 82.0%, vertical connection, and 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 A160H80RT is an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a compact, efficient air exchanger well suited to the realities of Quebec’s climate.
An effective ventilation solution for Quebec homes
In Quebec, homes are often very well insulated to retain heat during winter. This insulation improves energy efficiency but can also limit natural air renewal.
Without adequate ventilation, humidity, odors, CO₂, fine particles, cooking vapors, and stale air can become trapped inside. Over time, this can create a feeling of heavy air, discomfort, moisture buildup, or less pleasant air quality.
The Venmar AVS N Series A160H80RT HRV 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 from the outgoing air to reduce energy losses.
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 cold climates like Greater Montreal.
Why choose the Venmar A160H80RT HRV?
The Venmar A160H80RT 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 various residential applications where reliable and consistent ventilation is needed.
Its vertical connection is particularly practical in installations where ducts must be oriented upwards. This configuration can facilitate integrating the device into a basement, mechanical room, or existing technical space.
The recirculation defrost cycle is also an important advantage for our climate. It helps the device operate more stably when outdoor temperatures are very cold, reducing risks related to frost formation.
Important point: the right choice of an air exchanger always depends on the home itself. The area, number of occupants, level of insulation, humidity rate, duct configuration, and actual ventilation needs must be evaluated before recommending a model.
Main technical features
Here is the important information about the Venmar AVS N Series A160H80RT model:
Model: A160H80RT
Series: AVS N Series
Type of air exchanger: HRV
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: 82.0%
Airflow: 159.0 PCM / CFM at 0.4”
Connection: Vertical
These features make the Venmar A160H80RT a device well suited for homes that require effective ventilation with a compact, practical, and efficient design.
A flow rate of 159 CFM for reliable residential ventilation
With its flow rate of 159 PCM / CFM, the Venmar A160H80RT HRV 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, an overly powerful device may be unnecessarily oversized for some homes. The A160H80RT therefore represents a balanced choice for many residential installations.
At AirGreen, we always assess the actual needs of the home before recommending a model. Good ventilation starts with proper sizing.
Maximum sensible recovery efficiency of 82.0%
The Venmar A160H80RT offers a maximum sensible recovery efficiency of 82.0%. 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 particularly 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.
A VRC adapted to Quebec’s cold climate
The A160H80RT is a VRC, meaning a heat recovery ventilator. This type of air exchanger is especially relevant in regions with long, cold winters because it renews indoor air while recovering some of the heat from the outgoing air.
In a well-insulated home, a VRC helps maintain better indoor comfort. It helps expel stale air, bring in fresh air, and reduce heat loss related to ventilation.
For homeowners in Greater Montreal, the VRC Venmar AVS N Series A160H80RT is therefore a practical, reliable solution well suited to the daily needs of a Quebec home.
Virtuo technology for smarter balancing
The Venmar AVS N Series A160H80RT benefits from Virtuo 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 balancing can also affect indoor comfort and the overall efficiency of the system.
The 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 commissioning.
Built-in LCD screen and convenient diagnostics
The Venmar A160H80RT is also designed to simplify installation, adjustment, and maintenance. Its built-in LCD screen allows you to select the desired airflow and obtain 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, which simplifies inspections and helps maintain good long-term performance.
An intelligent air exchanger not only makes installation easier but also simplifies maintenance and system monitoring over time.
PMSM ECM motors for reduced consumption
The VRC Venmar AVS N Series A160H80RT is equipped with PMSM ECM motors, designed to provide efficient ventilation with reduced electrical consumption.
These motors maintain reliable airflow while using less energy than a traditional motor. In a home where the air exchanger runs regularly, motor quality is an important factor.
Efficient motors contribute to comfort, system durability, and better operational stability.
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 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 A160H80RT is designed with MERV 8 filtration, which helps trap certain particles present in the air and protect the internal components of the device.
Good filtration helps maintain a stable airflow and consistent performance. As with any air exchanger, regular filter maintenance is essential. Dirty filters can reduce airflow, increase motor effort, and decrease the overall system efficiency.
At AirGreen, we always recommend checking and cleaning the filters according to the actual use of the device and the manufacturer's recommendations.
A convenient vertical connection for multiple configurations
The vertical connection of the Venmar A160H80RT allows for convenient installation in many homes. In some mechanical spaces, ducts need to be directed upward rather than to the sides. A model with a vertical connection can then simplify duct routing and make the installation cleaner.
This configuration is particularly useful in basements, mechanical rooms, technical spaces, or replacements of old air exchangers where the existing layout favors a vertical outlet.
At AirGreen, we always check the site configuration before recommending a unit. 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 VRC Venmar A160H80RT offers a compact size that makes it easy to integrate into many residential environments.
It can fit installations where available space is limited while offering a good ventilation capacity. However, it is important to allow enough clearance around the unit for 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 A160H80RT
The VRC Venmar AVS N Series A160H80RT offers several important advantages:
159 CFM Airflow, suitable for many residential homes
Maximum sensible recovery efficiency of 82.0%
Vertical Connection, practical for various configurations
Recirculation Defrost, suited for Quebec winters
Virtuo Technology, for smarter balancing
Built-in LCD Screen, convenient for settings and information display
Integrated Diagnostics, useful for maintenance and inspections
PMSM ECM Motors, efficient and reliable
MERV 8 Filtration, to protect the system
Compact Size, ideal for many residential mechanical spaces
Standard 115 V Voltage, convenient for residential installations
5-1-0 Manufacturer’s Warranty, according to the manufacturer’s conditions
These advantages make the A160H80RT a solid option for homeowners looking for 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 unit 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 notably:
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 comprehensive support before, during, and after installation.
A smart choice to improve indoor air quality
The VRC Venmar AVS N Series A160H80RT 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 82.0%, recirculation defrost, and vertical connection, it meets the needs of many Quebec residences well.
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 A160H80RT is a compact, efficient, and well-designed residential air exchanger. With its flow rate of 159 PCM / CFM, maximum sensible recovery efficiency of 82.0%, vertical connection, recirculation defrost, and Virtuo 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 VRC Venmar AVS N Series A160H80RT and discover the best ventilation solution for your home.