Best ERV/HRV Ventilation Installers in San Francisco, CA
What to look for in ERV/HRV Ventilation Installation in San Francisco
For fresh-air ventilation, we weight providers who choose the right device for the climate (ERV for humid markets, HRV for cold-dry) and size it to the ASHRAE 62.2 standard — over a generic 'we install fans' claim.
- Published ERV/HRV capability. A stated energy- or heat-recovery ventilator line, ideally naming ERV-vs-HRV selection for the climate.
- ASHRAE 62.2 sizing. Evidence the provider sizes ventilation to the 62.2 rate rather than guessing — the difference between clearing stale air and wasting energy.
- Google rating. A strong rating floor reflects whether the install actually fixed stuffiness/odors.
Verify before you book
- That a unit was sized to your specific home's 62.2 rate — ask for the calculation.
- Whether ERV vs HRV was the right call for your climate — confirm the moisture-transfer choice.
- Active state HVAC license — check TDLR (TX), ROC (AZ), DBPR (FL), or your local board.
See full ranking methodology for ERV/HRV Ventilation Installation →
ERV/HRV Ventilation in San Francisco: ERV vs HRV + 62.2 sizing
A ventilation job is judged on the right device for the climate (ERV moves moisture, HRV doesn't), recovery efficiency, and ASHRAE 62.2 rate sizing — not just bolting on a fan. Here is what each of the 2 pros below publishes: In California, HVAC contractors must hold a CSLB C-20 license — verify on cslb.ca.gov before paying any deposit.
Top picks
Consistently strong customer feedback (4.9★ from 1,180+ Google reviews).
Google 4.9★ (1,180+)
Consistently strong customer feedback (5.0★ from 800+ Google reviews).
Google 5.0★ (800+)
Typical ERV/HRV Ventilation Installation costs in San Francisco, CA (2026)
Last updated
Estimated ranges for San Francisco, CA. Actual cost varies with home size, equipment, and scope — always request a written quote for your job.
| Service | Typical range |
|---|---|
| ERV/HRV ventilator (retrofit, installed) | $1,650–$3,750 |
| HRV ventilator (heat recovery, installed) | $1,650–$3,000 |
| ERV ventilator (energy/moisture recovery, installed) | $2,500–$3,750 |
Salt-laden fog and narrow lots raise moisture and ventilation challenges in San Francisco, making indoor air exchanges and filtration more important for aging buildings. Use best indoor air quality hvac companies in san francisco california to find contractors familiar with Title 24 ventilation and filtration requirements.
Which Indoor Air Quality fixes do San Francisco homeowners ask about most?
- Do I need an ERV or an HRV?
- Both recover most of the energy from the stale air they exhaust while bringing in filtered fresh air. The difference is moisture: an ERV transfers humidity as well as heat (the right choice in humid Texas and Florida), while an HRV moves heat only (better for cold, dry winters). A tight, stuffy, or newly-sealed home is the main candidate.
- How is the right ventilation size determined?
- Sizing follows the ASHRAE 62.2 residential ventilation standard, which sets the fresh-air rate from the home's floor area and bedroom count. A good installer calculates that rate rather than guessing — an undersized unit won't clear stale air and an oversized one wastes energy.
- Do San Francisco contractors need a CSLB license to install ERV/HRV ventilation?
- Yes. Contractors who install ERV/HRV systems must be licensed by the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB). The CSLB license verifies a contractor is registered to perform HVAC and ventilation work in California. Homeowners should ask for the license number and verify it on the CSLB site before hiring. Title 24 compliance and correct commissioning are additional items to confirm for whole‑house ventilation installs.
- How does Title 24 affect ERV/HRV and dehumidifier installs in San Francisco?
- Title 24 requires energy‑efficient ventilation and controls for new and altered systems. Installations must meet ventilation effectiveness and energy performance standards stated in Title 24. Providers should size equipment for the dwelling and specify controls that limit unnecessary heat exchange losses. Ask for documentation showing how the proposed solution meets Title 24 requirements during design and permitting.
- How do reviewers and warranties factor into choosing an IAQ specialist for Title 24 retrofits?
- Review counts and warranty language indicate service reliability and post‑install support. Look for providers who document system performance, offer parts or labor warranties (advertised), and include commissioning reports tied to Title 24 compliance. Verify review details against project types similar to the planned retrofit, such as ERV/HRV installs in older homes.
- How do I get a quote from these indoor air quality companies?
- Submit one request on this page and we send it to the vetted indoor air quality pros in San Francisco, CA listed here. They send quotes back — no obligation.