Founded 40 years ago, Airxchange®, a Massachusetts-based company, embarked on a mission to enhance HVAC efficiency while offering building owners the opportunity to increase ventilation.
This goal has become increasingly important amidst the global pandemic. Airxchange® has established itself as a key provider of energy recovery wheels, a critical component of energy recovery ventilators (ERVs), by delivering solutions that make it cost-effective to introduce fresh outside air into buildings.
This dedication has captured the interest of engineers and facility managers searching for proven, economical methods to boost indoor air quality.
Significance of Efficient Ventilation
Randall Steele, President and CEO of Airxchange®, emphasized the importance of building ventilation, stating, "Now that we understand the importance of well-ventilated buildings, the only reason not to do so is cost and comfort."
He adds, "Our technology eliminates those obstacles to making fresh air affordable and comfortable. It feels good to have developed products that really do make a difference in people’s lives."
Origins and Innovation
The company later expanded its offerings to serve commercial, institutional, and industrial markets
Airxchange® initially introduced its residential ERV in 1982, demonstrating the ability to cut ventilation costs by 80%. The company later expanded its offerings to serve commercial, institutional, and industrial markets.
By developing their innovative polymer energy recovery wheel, Airxchange® became a pioneering supplier for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). This segmented design occupies less space and is easier to maintain, clean, and repair compared to traditional metal wheels, enhancing reliability and effectiveness.
Adapting to Current Needs
The urgency for improved indoor air quality during the pandemic has drawn renewed focus on energy recovery ventilation.
While this spotlight is vital, Randall Steele noted, "It’s unfortunate it took a pandemic to bring this to our attention," underscoring a long-standing awareness among experts about the importance of ventilation for human health.
Shifts in Building Ventilation Practices
Made entirely in the U.S., the company’s products reflect a commitment to energy-efficient building solutions
Randall Steele expressed optimism about a potential shift in ventilation design practices, "I’m genuinely hopeful the recent pandemic has highlighted the importance of increased ventilation to the point where we will see a behavioral change in building ventilation design."
He adds, "For too long, it’s been secondary to other factors engineers consider when creating comfortable indoor climates for occupants."
Company Growth and Future Prospects
Airxchange® continues to grow with a diverse line of energy recovery products, employing 80 personnel to cater to global customers. Made entirely in the U.S., the company’s products reflect a commitment to energy-efficient building solutions.
Randall Steele remarked on the company culture, "I’m proud to have helped develop a technology that has become an important contributor to energy-efficient building design. But I am most proud of the team we’ve built. When on more than one occasion an employee shares that Airxchange® has been the best company they have ever worked for, I’d say it doesn’t get any better than that."
