May 6, 2025

HRV vs DVS vs SmartVent: What is the Best Home Ventilation System?

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HRV

Probably New Zealand’s most recognised brand, thanks to aggressive marketing.

Pros:
  • Strong brand recognition among homeowners.
  • Good after-sales service with a call centre and dedicated service technicians.
  • Simple-to-use touchscreen controllers.
  • Bundle options (air conditioning, water filtration, insulation).
Cons:
  • Expensive — higher cost compared to SmartVent and DVS.
  • High repair costs — parts and repairs can be disproportionately expensive.
  • Lower component quality — especially ducting and some smart tech features.
  • Sales pressure — heavy upselling, frequent follow-up calls.

HRV Relies heavily on sales reps (who can sometimes push upsells you may not actually need) The main complaint we hear regarding HRV is that they will not stop calling.

Summary:
Good brand awareness but costly,

Customer feedback is that the negatives (specifically expense and heavy sales-pressure) outweigh the positives.

Take a good look at the reviews online before committing to HRV. 

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DVS

The"original" positive pressure system in New Zealand.

Pros:
  • NZ-owned brand (always nice supporting local)
  • Reliable, simple systems, which are well-suited for older homes.
  • Affordable pricing.
  • Not a ‘pushy’ sales approach like HRV.
Cons:
  • Limited smart home integration.
  • Less modular if you want to upgrade later.
  • Noisy air outlets on basic models.
  • Basic air filters which cannot be easily upgraded.
  • After-sales support can vary.

Summary:

‍If the choice was only between HRV and DVS, then DVS all the way.

A much nicer (and some would say more ethical) company to deal with than HRV

Their systems are not the most modern or tech-forward, with limited upgrade availability and filter options.

Butfor basic systems, the components are decent quality and reliable.

SmartVent

A modern, flexible, NZ-owned brand focused on modular systems and smart tech.

Pros:
  • Highly modular (easy to upgrade to add heating, CO₂ monitoring, summer kits, etc).
  • Offers both positive pressure and balanced pressure systems.
  • Energy-efficient EC fans.
  • Smart controls and smartphone app connectivity.
  • Acoustic insulated ducting (specific to SmartVent) = super quiet operation.
  • Sensors and controllers are independent and customisable by room.
Cons:
  • Wireless sensor technology (new) has had minor teething issues — but SmartVent is refining it.
  • SmartVent works through a network of independent electricians and contractors, meaning installation quality can vary.

SmartVent has a different business model compared to HRV and DVS, They rely heavily on the installers to sell, install and maintain systems.

One of the huge benefits to this model is low sales pressure.

If an installer believes that a ventilation system might not be the correct solution to your problem, they can offer alternatives. (Unlike DVS or HRV who are only interested in selling you an HRV or DVS)

Ensuring that you select an SmartVent installer that is knowledgeable, accredited and has excellent reviews, is a must.

If you are planning a SmartVent home ventilation installation in Auckland, choosing a trusted professional is essential.

Summary:

Hands down, the best system - IF - you choose the right installer.

Fantastic performance, flexibility, and value for money — SmartVent easily outpaces HRV and DVS in modern ventilation solutions.

What About Other Brands?

Be cautious.
Lesser-known brands often pop up and disappear from the market, leaving customers stranded without support for their products.

Alternative brands are uncommon for a reason, they’re just not as good.

Stick with SmartVent, DVS, or HRV — they have established reputations, many years of product research and development, product support, and replacement parts readily available.

Is The Conduction Company Biased Towards SmartVent?

Honestly? Probably a little!

Our team has installed all the major systems (our staff have worked for DVS and HRV in the past).

We chose SmartVent because it's simply the best product for the price —otherwise, we wouldn’t install it.

Still sceptical?

Open Chat GPT yourself and type in:

"Act as a professional ventilation system installer in Auckland, New Zealand. Provide a full breakdown between SmartVent, HRV and DVS systems, including lists of pros and cons."

You will get a similar answer.

Final Verdict

For most Kiwi homeowners, SmartVent is the clear winner:

  • Best performance
  • Best smart tech integration
  • Best upgrade path
  • Best value for money

Choosing the right system for your home can be tricky. Speak to an expert to make sure you get the best fit for your needs.

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May 6, 2025
HRV vs DVS vs SmartVent: What is the Best Home Ventilation System?
April 3, 2025
How Much Does an Electrician Cost in Auckland? Pricing Guide for Residential & Commercial Services