{"product_id":"panasonic-fv13vec1s-balancedhome-130-erv-side-port","title":"Panasonic FV-13VEC1S BalancedHome 130 ERV – Side Port, Any Climate | FV-13VEC1S","description":"\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIndoor air in modern Canadian homes can be several times more polluted than the air outside, especially once you tighten up the envelope and add better windows. The Panasonic BalancedHome™ Elite Plus+ 130 CFM ERV (FV-13VEC1S) brings in filtered, tempered outdoor air while exhausting stale indoor air, helping reduce condensation, odours and stuffy bedrooms in one compact side-port unit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 130 CFM Elite Plus+ model sits between smaller 120 CFM BalancedHome units and larger 160 CFM options, giving you a flexible mid-range for homes and suites that land between “small condo\" and “full family home.\" As a side-port version, it's easier to route ductwork through joists and bulkheads than top-port ERVs, while still delivering any-climate performance down to -25 °C with frost prevention and high heat recovery efficiency.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eKey Features \u0026amp; Benefits\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e30–130 CFM independent supply and exhaust\u003c\/strong\u003e – Dial in balanced ventilation for your design airflow, with occupant-controlled boost mode up to 130 CFM when you need a quick air change.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAny-climate, cold-weather ready\u003c\/strong\u003e – Engineered for use in North American climate zones with tested performance down to -25 °C and a built-in frost prevention mode to protect the core in Canadian winters.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHigh-efficiency ECM motors\u003c\/strong\u003e – Two DC, brushless ECM motors are rated for continuous run and automatically adjust speed to maintain selected CFM as static pressure changes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSmart timing and code compliance\u003c\/strong\u003e – Built-in ASHRAE 62.2 intermittent\/continuous timing function helps simplify code-compliant ventilation scheduling.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMERV 13 supply and exhaust filtration\u003c\/strong\u003e – Factory MERV 13 filter (FV-FL1316VE1) cleans both incoming and outgoing air through Panasonic's hygroscopic membrane core, supporting better indoor air quality for allergy- and asthma-sensitive households.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFilter and fault indication\u003c\/strong\u003e – Visual and audible indicators alert you when filters need attention and when the Fault Indication Device (FID) detects a system issue, making maintenance simple for homeowners.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSide-port layout with 6\" ducts\u003c\/strong\u003e – Four horizontal 6\" ducts (outside air, exhaust, supply, return) plus included wall\/ceiling mounting hardware make this a practical option for tight mechanical rooms, bulkheads and retrofit projects.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eQuiet, efficient operation\u003c\/strong\u003e – Power consumption is rated up to 109 W at 125 CFM while delivering high sensible recovery efficiencies around 80% at 0 °C, helping reduce heating and cooling loads.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEnergy Star® for Canada\u003c\/strong\u003e – Meets strict Natural Resources Canada efficiency guidelines and is ENERGY STAR® certified for the Canadian market.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlexible controls\u003c\/strong\u003e – Compatible with the BalancedHome™ LED touchscreen wall control for full CFM, boost and status control, and the WhisperControl® Low Voltage Timer for simple timed boost from bathrooms or key locations.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCanadian Use Cases\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eMid-size detached homes and townhomes needing balanced ventilation beyond bath fans.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eRenovations and retrofits where side ports simplify duct routing through joists and bulkheads.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eHomes upgrading to heat pumps or mini-splits that need balanced fresh air without adding ducted air handlers.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eSecondary suites or garden\/laneway suites that require their own balanced ventilation system.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eTighter homes with foggy windows, musty basements or isolated bedrooms at the ends of long hallways.\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 Plus+ FV-13VEC1S (side-port ERV).\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAirflow range:\u003c\/strong\u003e 30–130 CFM, with independent supply and exhaust settings and occupant-controlled boost up to 130 CFM.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRated CFM:\u003c\/strong\u003e Net 130 CFM on both supply and exhaust at 0.4\" w.g. (CSA-C439 test conditions).\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVoltage and power:\u003c\/strong\u003e 120 V, 60 Hz, approximately 3.1 A; maximum power draw about 109 W at 125 CFM.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMotor type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Two fully enclosed, brushless DC ECM motors rated for continuous duty with automatic speed compensation under static pressure.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDuct connections:\u003c\/strong\u003e Four 6\" horizontal round ports – outside air (OA), exhaust air (EA), return air (RA) and supply air (SA).\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCore \u0026amp; climate rating:\u003c\/strong\u003e Hygroscopic membrane ERV core with frost prevention mode; engineered for use in North American climate zones with tested operation down to -25 °C (-13 °F) and heat recovery efficiencies around 80% at 0 °C.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCabinet \u0026amp; materials:\u003c\/strong\u003e Galvanized, corrosion-resistant steel housing designed for ceiling chain mount or wall mount with included brackets.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eApproximate dimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e About 579 mm (‰ˆ22.8\") wide, 406.8 mm (‰ˆ16.0\") high and 293.2 mm (‰ˆ11.5\") deep – always confirm clearances against the Panasonic submittal before framing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFiltration:\u003c\/strong\u003e Factory-installed MERV 13 filter (FV-FL1316VE1) with optional MERV 8 (FV-FL0815VE1) and washable MERV 6 (FV-FL0616VE1) replacements.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eControls compatibility:\u003c\/strong\u003e Works with the BalancedHome™ ERV LED touchscreen wall control (FV-SC16VEC1) and WhisperControl® Low Voltage Timer (FV-SWLV1060) for timed\/boost operation; also compatible with standard 120 V switches for basic on\/off where appropriate.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCertifications:\u003c\/strong\u003e Meets ASHRAE 62.2, Ontario Building Code and ENERGY STAR® requirements for ERVs in Canada; can support LEED and Indoor airPLUS projects when properly designed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWarranty (Canada):\u003c\/strong\u003e ECM motors – 6 years from original purchase; all other parts – 3 years (per Panasonic ERV submittal\/warranty documentation).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat's Included\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003ePanasonic BalancedHome™ Elite Plus+ 130 CFM ERV unit – FV-13VEC1S (side port).\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eFactory-installed MERV 13 filter (FV-FL1316VE1).\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eMounting hardware for wall or ceiling chain mount (per submittal).\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eStandard 120 V power cord and optional hardwire adaptor.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eInstallation and operation documentation from Panasonic.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCommon Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n    \u003cstrong\u003eHow does this ERV perform in Canadian winters?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n    The BalancedHome™ 130 Elite Plus+ is engineered for use in North American climate zones and tested for heating performance down to -25 °C with a built-in frost prevention mode. That means it can keep bringing in tempered fresh air while protecting the core from freezing in typical Canadian winter conditions when installed and commissioned correctly.\n  \u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n    \u003cstrong\u003eIs this a good match if I'm adding a heat pump or mini-split system?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n    Yes. Because this ERV delivers balanced, filtered ventilation independently of your heating\/cooling equipment, it pairs well with ducted or ductless heat pumps and mini-split systems. It helps control humidity, odours and CO\u003csub\u003e2\u003c\/sub\u003e even when your heat pump isn't calling, improving comfort and indoor air quality year-round.\n  \u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n    \u003cstrong\u003eHow often should I change the filters?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n    Panasonic and distributors recommend checking the MERV 13 filter about every 3 months and replacing it roughly every 6 months in typical homes, or more often if you have pets, construction dust or severe allergy concerns. The built-in filter indicator will remind homeowners when service is due.\n  \u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n    \u003cstrong\u003eHow do I know what size ERV I need?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n    ERV sizing depends on floor area, layout, airtightness and local code. For many mid-size homes and suites, a 130 CFM BalancedHome model falls between smaller 120 CFM and larger 160 CFM options. For step-by-step examples, 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\n    and then confirm final sizing with your ventilation designer or HVAC contractor.\n  \u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n    \u003cstrong\u003eWhich replacement filters does this model use?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n    This FV-13VEC1S ships with a high-performance MERV 13 filter (FV-FL1316VE1). For projects that want slightly lower static pressure or easier airflow, optional MERV 8 (FV-FL0815VE1) or washable MERV 6 (FV-FL0616VE1) filters are also available. Choose based on your IAQ goals and static pressure budget.\n  \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\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\n\u003cp\u003eFor full Panasonic options beyond ERVs, you can also explore our\n  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/simplysecured.ca\/collections\/panasonic\"\u003e\n    complete Panasonic collection for Canada\n  \u003c\/a\u003e.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eLooking at other ERV sizes or layouts? Compare with top-port and higher-capacity models such as\n  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/simplysecured.ca\/products\/fv13vec1t\"\u003eFV-13VEC1T (top-port 130 CFM)\u003c\/a\u003e,\n  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/simplysecured.ca\/products\/fv16vec1s\"\u003eFV-16VEC1S (160 CFM side-port)\u003c\/a\u003e,\n  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/simplysecured.ca\/products\/fv16vec1t\"\u003eFV-16VEC1T (160 CFM top-port)\u003c\/a\u003e,\n  or compact Elite models like\n  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/simplysecured.ca\/products\/fv12ve1s\"\u003eFV-12VE1S\u003c\/a\u003e and\n  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/simplysecured.ca\/products\/fv12ve1t\"\u003eFV-12VE1T\u003c\/a\u003e.\n  For condos and smaller suites, consider Intelli-Balance® ERVs such as\n  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/simplysecured.ca\/products\/fv10vec2\"\u003eFV-10VEC2\u003c\/a\u003e,\n  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/simplysecured.ca\/products\/fv10vec2r\"\u003eFV-10VEC2R\u003c\/a\u003e,\n  or\n  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/simplysecured.ca\/products\/fv10ve2\"\u003eFV-10VE2\u003c\/a\u003e.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Panasonic","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45798431948991,"sku":"FV-13VEC1S","price":1650.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0410\/6262\/9541\/files\/IAQ24168WEB-3_a235b880-8e5f-4405-98c3-e26b347d8d02.png?v=1782749538","url":"https:\/\/www.simplycontrolled.ca\/products\/panasonic-fv13vec1s-balancedhome-130-erv-side-port","provider":"Simply Controlled","version":"1.0","type":"link"}