Which system component assists in maintaining latent heat while expelling CO2 from a conventional space?

The correct choice is the Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV), as it plays a pivotal role in maintaining latent heat and managing moisture levels in a conventional space, particularly in climates where humidity control is essential.

An ERV operates by exchanging the energy — both thermal and moisture — between the outgoing and incoming air streams. This process helps to balance temperature and humidity levels efficiently, which is critical in avoiding excess moisture that can create discomfort or lead to mold growth. When conditioned air is expelled from the space, the ERV captures some of the latent heat and moisture from that air before the incoming fresh air is treated, thus maintaining the overall latent heat balance within the environment.

Utilizing an ERV not only helps in reducing the load on HVAC systems by pre-conditioning incoming air but also enhances comfort levels and energy efficiency within the building. This is especially important when dealing with systems that may release CO2, as effective ventilation is key to maintaining indoor air quality while managing latent heat.

In contrast, the other choices do not primarily focus on maintaining latent heat during the expulsion of CO2. A heat exchanger primarily transfers heat between fluids and does not directly deal with dehumidification or moisture management. An air conditioning unit mainly cools and dehumidifies air as