The Panasonic Intelli-Balance Elite 110 is the better ERV or HRV overall, rated 3.7 to 3.4. The Panasonic Intelli-Balance Elite 110 leads on heat recovery and efficiency. The Vents Frigate ERV 120 EC wins on warranty. The Panasonic Intelli-Balance Elite 110 costs $284.01 less ($964.99 vs $1,249).
A strong whole house ERV for a small to mid size home in a mixed or humid climate, with top tier heat recovery and good filtration. Cold climate buyers should look at an HRV with stronger defrost.
Amazon $964.99A quiet, easy to adjust ERV for a mid size home or apartment that will run at moderate speed most of the time. At full flow it uses more power than its rivals.
Amazon $1,249Prices were last checked November 2, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every whole-house ERV ERV or HRV; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Panasonic Intelli-Balance Elite 110 | Vents Frigate ERV 120 EC |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.7/5 | 3.4/5 |
| Heat recovery 25% | 100 88% sensible recovery | 53 71% sensible recovery |
| Efficiency 15% | 73 1.8 cfm per watt (110 cfm, 62 W) | 16 0.9 cfm per watt (150 cfm, 175 W) |
| Value 25% | 59 $8.77 per cfm ($964.99, 110 cfm) | 63 $8.33 per cfm ($1,249, 150 cfm) |
| Quiet 10% | 50 noise not published (neutral score used) | 56 1.5 sones |
| Warranty 25% | 33 3-year warranty | 67 5-year warranty |
| Panasonic Intelli-Balance Elite 110 | Vents Frigate ERV 120 EC | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | ||
| Core | ERV (heat and moisture) | ERV (heat and moisture) |
| Install | Ducted, whole house | Ducted, whole house |
| Airflow | 110 cfm | 150 cfm |
| Sensible recovery | 88% | 71% |
| Power draw | 62 W | 175 W |
| Noise | - | 1.5 sones |
| Build | ||
| Frost protection | Yes | Yes |
| Filter | MERV 13 | MERV 6 |
| HVI certified | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 3 years | 5 years |
