We are building a new home in Capon Bridge, WV just across the state line from Virginia (about 20 miles west of Winchester, Virginia). Our climate is similar to that of Washington, DC (typical mid-Atlantic). I want either an ERV or an HRV, not just to save on energy consumption, but particularly because I want to use the system to ventilate our home year round. Which system should we go with? Can you run an HRV in the summer for ventilation purposes? Thank you.

Please explain what ERV and HRV are.

An ERV is an Energy Recovery Ventilator and an HRV is a Heat Recovery Ventilator.

Ahhh. Thanks. I'll see what I can find out, but someone who really knows will probably answer your question before I get back.

I guess the experts take Sundays off. I found this, and if you scroll all the way down, you'll find a link to ERVs under "HRV vs ERV"...hopefully it will answer your questions, and thanks for helping me learn something new.

http://www.daviddarling.info/encyclopedia/H/AE_heat_recovery_ventilator.html

For your climate, the heat recovery ventilator would be the better choice. ERV units shouldn't be used in climates that typically have below freezing winter temperatures. The HRV units are quite effeective if properly commissioned after installation.
Best wishes

Thank you, Richard! Sounds like the HRV can be used in the summer months for ventilation purposes, so we will be installing an HRV.

Thank you, Gary!