I get the appeal of DIY air sealing, but I actually found the HRV balancing less intimidating than expected. There’s a learning curve, sure, but with some patience and a couple of YouTube videos, it wasn’t too bad. Maybe it depends on how complex your setup is? I do wonder if hiring out every “tricky” part ends up costing more in the long run than just taking the time to learn.
I hear you on the HRV balancing—it’s one of those things that sounds intimidating until you’re actually in the thick of it. I remember the first time I tried, I was convinced I’d mess up the airflow and end up with a house full of stale air... but after a couple hours (and a few choice words), it clicked. Honestly, sometimes the DIY route is less about saving money and more about not waiting three weeks for a contractor to show up. That said, I’ve definitely had projects where my “learning experience” cost more than just hiring someone who knew what they were doing. It’s a gamble every time.