In this paper, a transient numerical model for a liquid-to-air membrane energy exchanger (LAMEE) is developed and the results are compared to the experimental data. The data for the sensible, latent and total effectiveness are compared with transient and steady-state simulations for various values of NTU and operating parameters (Cr*, inlet temperature and humidity) while the exchanger undergoes a step change in inlet conditions and reaches a new steady-state. The transient and steady-state performances are shown to be a function of the design and operating parameters. The paper also shows that buoyancy forces become important and affect the LAMEE performance under certain operating conditions. The verified numerical model is used to investigate the impact of outdoor air conditions on the LAMEE performance. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.