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6. TROUBLESHOOTING
7. MAINTENANCE OF THE VENTILATION SYSTEM (PH, PE, SOLACE, DH & SS SERIES)
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE
SEVEN-STEP MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULE
With routine preventative maintenance,
you can avoid unnecessary problems,
ensure the effectiveness of your HRV,
and prolong its life. For additional
specific instructions, refer to your HRV
operating manual or ask the contractor
who installed or services the HRV to
demonstrate the proper maintenance
procedures.
WARNING:
BE SURE TO DISCONNECT THE
ELECTRICAL POWER BEFORE
SERVICING YOUR SYSTEM
1.
Clean or replace air filters. Filters,
which are located within the HRV
should be cleaned every two to three
months. Filters should be vacuumed
first, then washed with a mild soap
and water. Most washable filters will
last several years before needing to
be replaced.
2.
Clean the exterior intake and
exhaust vents of obstructions.Check
the outside vents regularly to ensure
that the screen openings are not
obstructed by grass, bushes, leaves,
snow or other debris.
3
. Clean and inspect the heat-exchange
core and aluminum louvers (
Ref. Fig.
17.1 for proper orientation of louvers
).
Twice a year and clean it as required
(consult your owner’s manual
for instructions on inspecting and
cleaning the core). A build-up of dust
and dirt can restrict airflow and reduce
the efficiency of your HRV/ERV. After
inspection and cleaning, make sure the
core is replaced right-side-up.
4.
Clean the condensate drain and pan.
Twice a year, check the condensate
drain and tubing to ensure that
they are open and free-flowing.
The tubing can be disconnected for
cleaning. The condensate drain must
have a “trap” in the tubing that traps
a quantity of water – to prevent air
from entering the HRV/ERV via this
tubing
5.
Service the fans. The fans on the
HRV/ERV’s are designed to operate
continuously without lubrication.
Inspect the blower fans periodically
for dirt on the blades, and remove
it by gently brushing the blades or
using a vacuum cleaner.
6.
Clean the grilles and inspect the
ductwork. Clean the grilles when
they are dusty. At least once a year,
visually inspect the ductwork leading
to and from the HRV. Damaged ducts
can lead to condensation problems,
including wet insulation, water on
the floor and, ice build-up. If the
insulation itself is damaged.
7
. Arrange for an annual servicing.
Your HRV/ERV should undergo
annual general servicing by a
certified contractor and who is
familiar with your HRV. If possible,
have your furnace and HRV serviced
at the same time; this will result in
less inconvenience and cost than
two separate visits.
QUESTION / ITEM
DIAGNOSIS / SOLUTION
• HRV/ERV not running
• Verify breaker in main electrical panel
• Verify the HRV or ERV is in the ON position
• Verify the all wall controls switch on the HRV or ERV are activated to supply power to the unit
• Unplug HRV or ERV verify if the controller is wired correctly to the connection box on the side of the unit
• Verify main outlet polarization
• Air is too dry
• Increase the humidity level on the controller (Turn towards 60%)
• Reduce continuous airflow rate
• Switch ventilation mode from continuous to intermittent
• Humidifier recommended if heating source is a forced air system
• Air too humid
• Suggest continuous operation of HRV or ERV
• Reduce humidity level on dehumidistat (Turn towards 30%)
• Increase continuous airflow rate
• Insufficient ventilation, check capacity
• Internal source of moisture, e.g. heating wood store in basement, possible leaks or poor insulation R-value and or
dryer is venting in basement
• Vibration or noise
• Verify that vibration mounting straps, hanging chains or wall bracket is used for hanging the units.
• Verify that flexible duct connections are use between the HRV or ERV and the rigid duct.
• Verify that the motors are operating and are not obscured by any debris
• Insure motor moves freely with turning by hand.
• Cold air
• Misplaced supply outlets
• Defrost no operating correctly
• The HRV or ERV not properly balanced
• High airflow on furnace continuous mode
• Insure HRV or ERV is interlock when integrated with forced air system
• Contamination or Pollutants
• Insure proper clearance of ventilation hoods from source of contaminants
• Condensation
• Verify that the HRV or ERV is level to insure proper drainage
• Verify that the duct connection are fix and secured with screws to the HRV or ERV.
• Verify the cold side duct connections are fully insulated and that vapor barrier is taped to insure a proper seal.
• Look for signs of crushed section, failing duct straps, puncture vapor barrier, missing insulation.
• Look for sign of water accumulation/leakage/dripping
• Verify that the drain connection is not kinked; the “P” trap is not to close to unit or obscured with debris.
For proper orintation of louvers.
(Solace & PH ES Series only)
