{"product_id":"panasonic-fv12ve1s-balancedhome-120-erv-side-port","title":"Panasonic FV-12VE1S BalancedHome™ 120 CFM ERV – Side Port | FV-12VE1S","description":"\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Panasonic BalancedHome™ FV-12VE1S is a compact 120 CFM energy recovery ventilator (ERV) designed for smaller Canadian homes, basement suites and targeted zones in temperate climate regions. It brings in tempered, filtered outdoor air while exhausting stale indoor air, helping reduce condensation, odours and stuffy rooms in tighter, energy-efficient homes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis side-port “Elite 120\" model gives you independently adjustable supply and exhaust airflow from 30–120 CFM, plus an occupant-controlled boost mode up to 120 CFM. It sits below the higher-capacity BalancedHome Elite and Elite Plus+ (130–160 CFM) models, making it a strong fit where loads are modest and space for ductwork is limited—especially in renovations and smaller Part 9 homes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eKey Features \u0026amp; Benefits\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e30–120 CFM adjustable airflow\u003c\/strong\u003e – Independently set supply and exhaust between 30 and 120 CFM to match Canadian design airflow and avoid over-ventilating smaller homes or suites.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSide-port configuration\u003c\/strong\u003e – Four horizontal 6\" ducts on the side of the cabinet simplify bulkheads and joist runs in retrofits or tight mechanical corners.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eECM brushless DC motors\u003c\/strong\u003e – Two high-efficiency ECM motors are rated for continuous run, keeping energy use low while delivering stable airflow in real-world duct layouts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSmartflow™-style pressure control\u003c\/strong\u003e – The ECM motors automatically ramp to maintain selected CFM when static pressure increases, helping preserve balanced ventilation as ducts get longer or grilles load with dust.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemperate-climate ERV core\u003c\/strong\u003e – Panasonic's hygroscopic membrane core tempers incoming air and transfers moisture, helping avoid over-drying in winter shoulder seasons and reducing humidity swings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMERV 8 filter included\u003c\/strong\u003e – Factory-supplied MERV 8 filter cleans incoming and outgoing air to protect the core and improve indoor air quality; optional higher-MERV and washable filters are available.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eExhaust-only frost protection mode\u003c\/strong\u003e – Built-in frost strategies include an exhaust-only mode suitable for temperate climates, helping protect the core while keeping air moving when outdoor temperatures drop.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eASHRAE 62.2 timing function\u003c\/strong\u003e – On-board timing logic supports Canadian code-compliant ventilation strategies and simplifies setup for designers and contractors.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCeiling or wall mounting\u003c\/strong\u003e – Included brackets allow you to hang the unit from chains or mount to a wall, giving flexibility in closets, mechanical rooms and bulkheads.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFault and filter indicators\u003c\/strong\u003e – Visual\/audible indications and a fault indication device (FID) remind occupants to check filters and alert them to potential installation or system issues.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCanadian Use Cases\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eSmaller detached homes in temperate regions needing balanced ventilation without stepping up to a 130–160 CFM ERV.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eBasement or garden suites where you want dedicated, balanced fresh air without tying into an existing furnace.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eRenovations where air sealing, new windows and added insulation have led to foggy windows and stale bedrooms.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eUpper-floor zones or \"problem areas\" that feel stuffy or humid compared to the rest of the house.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eHomes with bath fans and range hoods that still struggle with lingering moisture after showers or cooking.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eProjects pairing ductless heat pumps \/ mini-splits with a separate ERV for fresh air and comfort control.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eNeed help choosing a Panasonic ERV?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are not sure whether this model is the right size or configuration for your project, check out our\n  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/simplysecured.ca\/blogs\/news\/best-panasonic-erv-systems-in-canada-2025-guide-model-comparison\"\u003e\n    Best Panasonic ERV Systems in Canada (2025) guide\n  \u003c\/a\u003e\n  for model comparisons and Canadian sizing examples.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eTechnical Details\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eModel:\u003c\/strong\u003e Panasonic BalancedHome™ Elite 120 ERV – FV-12VE1S (side-port)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAirflow range:\u003c\/strong\u003e Independently adjustable supply and exhaust, 30–120 CFM\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRated CFM:\u003c\/strong\u003e Up to 120 net CFM supply and exhaust as tested under CSA-C439 at 0.4\" w.g.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVoltage \u0026amp; power:\u003c\/strong\u003e 120 V, 60 Hz, 2.4 A; power consumption approximately 73 W at 121 CFM and 0.2\" w.g.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMotors:\u003c\/strong\u003e Two enclosed ECM brushless DC motors, rated for continuous operation with automatic speed increase under static pressure.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDuct connections:\u003c\/strong\u003e Four 6\" horizontal ducts (outside air, exhaust air, return air, supply air).\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHousing:\u003c\/strong\u003e Galvanized, corrosion-resistant steel cabinet suitable for ceiling chain mounting or wall mounting (brackets included).\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eClimate suitability:\u003c\/strong\u003e Engineered for use in temperate North American climate zones; uses exhaust-only frost control strategy.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCore:\u003c\/strong\u003e Hygroscopic membrane ERV core designed to transfer heat and moisture, with mold-resistant treatment.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFiltration:\u003c\/strong\u003e Factory MERV 8 filter (model FV-FL0815VE1); optional MERV 13 (FV-FL1316VE1) and washable MERV 6 (FV-FL0616VE1) filters available.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eControls \u0026amp; compatibility:\u003c\/strong\u003e Compatible with the optional BalancedHome touch screen LED wall control and low-voltage booster timer for boost mode, airflow selection and status alerts (both sold separately).\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStandards \u0026amp; codes:\u003c\/strong\u003e Includes ASHRAE 62.2 timing function and can be used to help comply with ASHRAE 62.2, Ontario Building Code, LEED and Indoor airPLUS when installed and commissioned correctly.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWarranty:\u003c\/strong\u003e ECM motors – 6 years; all other parts – 3 years (Panasonic limited warranty).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat's Included\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003ePanasonic BalancedHome™ FV-12VE1S 120 CFM ERV unit\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eFactory-installed MERV 8 filter\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eCeiling chain mounting provisions and wall-mount brackets\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003ePower cord and hardwire adaptor\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eInstallation and owner documentation from Panasonic\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCommon Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ: How does this ERV handle Canadian winters?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA: The FV-12VE1S is designed for temperate North American climate zones. It uses an exhaust-only frost control strategy along with insulated ducting and proper drainage to protect the ERV core. In milder Canadian regions (for example, coastal B.C. or other temperate areas), it provides balanced ventilation without the complexity of a full cold-climate recirculation system. In locations that routinely see extreme cold snaps, we may recommend stepping up to a cold-climate Intelli-Balance® or BalancedHome Elite Plus+ model—reach out if you are unsure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ: Can I use this ERV with a heat pump or mini-split system?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA: Yes. The FV-12VE1S is often paired with ductless heat pumps or mini-splits to separate \"fresh air\" from heating and cooling. The ERV handles balanced ventilation while your heat pump focuses on temperature and dehumidification, which is especially useful in tighter Canadian homes where indoor air can be more polluted than the air outside.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ: How often should I change the filters?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA: Panasonic recommends checking the filters every 2–3 months and replacing the MERV 8 supply filter roughly every 6 months, or sooner in dusty homes or during wildfire season. The unit's filter indicator light and audible alarm provide a reminder when service is due. Higher-MERV and washable filter options are available if your project needs finer filtration or different maintenance patterns.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ: How do I know what size ERV I need?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA: Start with your home's floor area, airtightness and layout, then map the design CFM to the appropriate Panasonic family. The FV-12VE1S is usually a fit for smaller homes, suites or targeted zones. For step-by-step examples and model comparisons, see our\n  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/simplysecured.ca\/blogs\/news\/best-panasonic-erv-systems-in-canada-2025-guide-model-comparison\"\u003e\n    Best Panasonic ERV Systems in Canada (2025) guide\n  \u003c\/a\u003e, and then confirm final sizing with your ventilation designer or contractor.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ: Is there a matching replacement filter?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA: Yes. This BalancedHome 120 Elite ERV ships with a MERV 8 filter (FV-FL0815VE1), and you can upgrade to an optional MERV 13 (FV-FL1316VE1) or use the washable MERV 6 (FV-FL0616VE1) where appropriate. Using OEM filters helps maintain airflow, protect the core and keep the warranty in good standing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCompare \u0026amp; Other Models\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you prefer top-port connections instead of side ports, see the\n  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/simplysecured.ca\/products\/fv12ve1t\"\u003ePanasonic FV-12VE1T BalancedHome Elite 120 CFM ERV – Top Port\u003c\/a\u003e.\n  For projects that need more airflow, consider stepping up to\n  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/simplysecured.ca\/products\/fv13vec1t\"\u003eBalancedHome Elite Plus+ 130 CFM\u003c\/a\u003e,\n  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/simplysecured.ca\/products\/fv15ve1t\"\u003eBalancedHome Elite 150 CFM\u003c\/a\u003e or\n  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/simplysecured.ca\/products\/fv16vec1t\"\u003eBalancedHome Elite Plus+ 160 CFM\u003c\/a\u003e models.\n  For compact suites or small homes, you can also look at the\n  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/simplysecured.ca\/products\/fv10vec2\"\u003eIntelli-Balance 100 ERV family\u003c\/a\u003e.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor more Panasonic options, browse our\n  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/simplysecured.ca\/collections\/panasonic\"\u003ePanasonic ventilation collection\u003c\/a\u003e\n  and the dedicated\n  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/simplysecured.ca\/collections\/panasonic-energy-recovery-ventilators-erv\"\u003ePanasonic Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERV) collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWant to compare other capacities and port configurations? Browse all\n  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/simplysecured.ca\/collections\/panasonic-energy-recovery-ventilators-erv\"\u003e\n    Panasonic ERV models for Canadian homes and suites\n  \u003c\/a\u003e.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Panasonic","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45798431850687,"sku":"FV-12VE1S","price":1530.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0410\/6262\/9541\/files\/IAQ24168WEB-10-1_a66d822f-cbea-4c79-b1d9-477c5df86ec0.png?v=1782749533","url":"https:\/\/www.simplycontrolled.ca\/products\/panasonic-fv12ve1s-balancedhome-120-erv-side-port","provider":"Simply Controlled","version":"1.0","type":"link"}