RenewAire HE Series ERV Installation, Operation and Maintenance Manual

Safety Warnings and Cautions

WARNING: EC motors (ECM) are not suitable for use with solid-state speed control as they have built-in speed control electronics.

WARNING: ARC FLASH AND ELECTRIC SHOCK HAZARD. Disconnect all electric power supplies, verify power is off with a voltmeter, and wear protective equipment per NFPA 70E before working within the electric control enclosure. Failure to comply can cause serious injury or death.

Customer must provide earth ground to the unit per NEC, CEC, and local codes.

Before installation, read all instructions, verify all parts are included, and check the nameplate to ensure voltage matches utility power.

CAUTION: RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK OR EQUIPMENT DAMAGE. Disconnect power supply to the ERV and its controls whenever electrical wiring is connected, disconnected, or changed. Lock and tag the disconnect switch or circuit breaker to prevent accidental reconnection of electric power.

CAUTION: RISK OF CONTACT WITH HIGH-SPEED MOVING PARTS. Disconnect all local and remote power supplies, verify power is off with a voltmeter, and ensure all fan blades have stopped rotating before working on the unit. Do not operate this unit with any cabinet panels removed.

IMPORTANT: This unit is intended for general ventilating and heating only. Do not use to exhaust hazardous or explosive materials and vapors. Do not connect this equipment to range hoods, fume hoods, or collection systems for toxics.

IMPORTANT: This unit is for ventilating finished structures only. It is not to be used until after all construction is completed and construction debris and dust are cleaned from the Occupied Space.

IMPORTANT: This equipment is to be installed by following Industry Best Practices and all applicable codes. Any damage to components, assemblies, subassemblies, or the cabinet caused by improper installation practices will void the warranty.

AVERTISSEMENT: Les moteurs EC (ECM) ne conviennent PAS pour une utilisation avec un contrôle de vitesse à semi-conducteurs. Ils ont déjà un contrôle de vitesse intégré à l'électronique du moteur.

Unit Information

Record unit information for factory assistance. Locate the RenewAire unit label on the outside of the unit.

Option Code: [Details provided in Configuration Code section]

Serial Number: [To be filled by installer]

SO #: [To be filled by installer]

Job Order: [To be filled by installer]

The unit is an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV).

Unit Label (Typical): Contains model/model number, option code, serial number, sales order, job order, power supply information, motor protection details, and safety warnings.

1.0 Overview

1.1 Description

The HE07RT/HE10RT Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) recovers sensible energy (heat) and latent energy (moisture) from exhaust air (EA) and transfers it to incoming outside air (OA). This is achieved by passing the two airstreams through static-plate enthalpic cores at right angles, without mixing the air. Each ERV has two electronically commutated motor (ECM) impellers controlled by a circuit board, a RenewAire Commercial Controller, or a Building Management System (BMS).

This manual covers the HE07RT/HE10RT outdoor unit. Indoor versions (HE07IN/HE10IN) have separate documentation.

Units are designed for outdoor installation on a factory-supplied curb or owner-supplied rails. They can be integrated into air-handling systems or operate as stand-alone devices.

Each unit has an integral 24VAC power supply for internal use and optional control devices. Maintenance involves periodic filter replacement and annual vacuuming of the enthalpic cores.

Airstream Terminology:

• OUTSIDE AIR (OA): Air taken from the external atmosphere.
• SUPPLY AIR (SA): Air downstream of the enthalpic cores, ready for conditioning or return.
• RETURN AIR (RA): Air returned to the ERV from a conditioned space.
• EXHAUST AIR (EA): Air removed from a space or appliance and discharged.

1.2 Airflow

Four airflow configurations are available for both HE07RT and HE10RT models, indicated by digit 9 of the Configuration Code:

• HE07RTV/HE10RTV: Return Air (RA) enters bottom, Supply Air (SA) exits bottom. Mounting: Roof Curb.
• HE07RTR/HE10RTR: Return Air (RA) enters bottom, Supply Air (SA) exits side. Mounting: Roof Curb.
• HE07RTF/HE10RTF: Return Air (RA) enters side, Supply Air (SA) exits side. Mounting: Roof Curb.
• HE07RTH/HE10RTH: Return Air (RA) enters side, Supply Air (SA) exits side. Mounting: Equipment Rail.

All configurations include attached hoods for OA and EA airstreams.

CAUTION: Low airflow can cause fouling of the enthalpic cores. The ERV must not be operated without clean filters and minimum airflow must be greater than 250 CFM per full-sized core.

2.0 Component Descriptions

2.1 Cabinet

Constructed of 20-gauge galvanized steel with 1" thick foil-backed insulation. Available in single-wall or double-wall construction. Hinged doors with stainless steel screws. Doors can be removed by taking out hinge pins. Duct flanges are available as an accessory.

2.2 Enthalpic Cores

Static-plate enthalpic cores transfer latent and sensible energy between airstreams. Pre-installed gasketing ensures a proper air seal. Annual maintenance is required (See Section 7.0).

2.3 Impeller/Motor Assemblies

Each ERV contains two impeller and motor assemblies.

2.4 E-Box

Terminates high-voltage supply and low-voltage control wiring. May contain an optional 24VAC transformer for integrated controls and sensors.

2.5 Filters

• HE07RT: (2) MERV 8, 14"x20"x2" (nominal) pleated filters. Actual size: 13.5"x19.5"x1.75".
• HE10RT: (2) MERV 8, 20"x20"x2" (nominal) pleated filters. Actual size: 19.5"x19.5"x1.75".
• MERV 13 filters are available as an accessory.
• Minimum recommended effectiveness: MERV 6.

2.6 Factory Installed Options

Units can be ordered with factory-installed options. Refer to the Unit Configuration Code. Supplemental manuals are provided for options like Commercial Controls, Filter Alarm, and Isolation Dampers.

3.0 Shipping/Receiving/Handling

Units are palletized and shipped by common carrier. Inspect for shipping damage upon receipt and report any damage immediately to the RenewAire sales representative, noting it on the Bill of Lading.

The unit can be handled with a forklift or crane. Ensure cabinet doors are securely fastened before moving. Weatherhoods are shipped separately and must be installed before lifting the unit by the factory-installed lifting lugs.

Test lift to ensure the unit is hoisted level and secure.

Store units on pallets, protected from weather and damage. Secure all doors and seal openings to prevent dust and debris entry.

3.1 Unit Weights and Dimensions

• HE07RT Unit Dimensions: 73 3/4" L x 34 5/8" W x 58 1/4" H; Weight: 218-373 lbs.
• HE07RT Max Shipping Dimensions: 60" L x 30" W x 82 1/4" H; Weight: 410 lbs.
• HE10RT Unit Dimensions: 81 7/8" L x 23 3/4" W x 58 1/4" H; Weight: 261-415 lbs.
• HE10RT Max Shipping Dimensions: 60" L x 30" W x 82 1/4" H; Weight: 455 lbs.

3.2 Rigging and Center of Gravity

Four factory-installed lifting lugs are located at each upper corner. Use hooks and chains at all four corners. Spreader bars are recommended.

3.3 Receiving

Inspect for external damage. Take digital pictures and report damage to RenewAire. Cover duct openings to prevent dirt and debris entry.

3.4 Storage

Store units on pallets, protected from weather and damage. Ensure doors are secured and openings are sealed.

4.0 Unit Placement

4.1 Before You Begin

Units are designed for outdoor installation, typically on a rooftop. RenewAire recommends using optional manufactured curbs for proper mounting. Ensure the curb is placed on completed roof decking and aligned with structural steel supports. Maintain required service clearances as shown in Section 4.2.

4.2 Service Clearances

Refer to dimensioned drawings for required service clearances around the unit.

CAUTION: Ensure screws or bolts used for securing units are properly selected for loads and substrates. Secure the unit to prevent falling or tipping. RenewAire strongly recommends securing rooftop units to the building structure to prevent wind damage.

4.3 Sound Attenuation

To attenuate noise:

• Outside the Building: Orient the outdoor air intake hood away from occupied areas if possible.
• At the Curb: Seal all gaps around ducts passing through the roof deck.
• Ducts: Ensure ductwork is stiff and transitions are smooth. Follow SMACNA guidelines for efficient and quiet air movement.
• Radiated Noise: The unit's insulation provides sound attenuation. Insulate inlet ducts, especially the Return Air (RA) duct, starting at the unit for at least the first 10 feet. Insulate ducts in mechanical spaces to control sound radiation.
• Connecting Horizontal Ducts: Flanged duct connections are available as an accessory for horizontal duct connections (RTR, RTF, RTH units).

5.0 Installation

5.1 Curb Specifications

Rooftop curbs must be placed in a location capable of supporting all loads, installed per industry best practices (e.g., NRCA manuals). Ensure curbs are supported by structural steel. For metal roofs, wood fillers may be needed in decking corrugations. Pre-stressed concrete roofs require engineer approval for curb placement.

Curbs are shipped knocked-down and include assembly hardware and foam gasketing. Assemble curbs, install mid-rails, and tighten fasteners. Optional curb clips are available. Install foam gasketing on all bearing surfaces.

Owner-supplied mounting rails are only permitted for HE07RTH or HE10RTH models. Installation on owner-supplied rails requires engineer approval and adherence to local codes.

5.2 Ductwork

Always connect RA and SA ducts. RA and SA ducts cannot be interchanged. Weatherized ducts must be thermally insulated with a sealed vapor barrier. Install ducts according to engineer's design for required airflow.

• Inside Ductwork System: Follow engineer's design.
• Duct Insulation: Insulate ducts running through unconditioned spaces with a sealed vapor barrier on both inside and outside of insulation.
• Adjust Fan Speed: Balance SA and EA airflow rates for optimal performance. Refer to the unit specification sheet for CFM/ESP operating envelopes.

5.3 Installation of Hoods

Weatherhoods are shipped separately and installed after rigging. Remove and save roof edge screws. Slip the top flange of the hood assembly under the roof panel overhang to flash from precipitation. Align side screw holes and attach the hood with provided screws. Replace roof edge screws.

CAUTION: Tape both inner and outer vapor barriers of insulated duct to duct adapters to prevent moisture migration into insulation.

5.4 Electrical Requirements

Electrical options and ratings are on the Unit Label. Knockouts are provided in the E-box for wiring entry. Alternatively, wiring can enter through the curb and unit floor. Install wiring per local codes with strain relief.

High-voltage supply wiring connects to the top of the disconnect switch.

NOTICE: For 230VAC power, move the black primary-side lead from the transformer's "208V" terminal to the "240V" terminal.

CAUTION: If external control system provides 24VAC power, cap blue and red leads separately and do not connect them to other wires.

5.4.1 Factory-Recommended Electric Service Entry

Wiring entry points are detailed in diagrams for HE07RT and HE10RT E-Boxes.

NOTICE: Your unit is equipped with EC Motors (ECM). Use conduit, strain reliefs, etc., as required by code.

CAUTION: Before applying power, check the unit nameplate to confirm voltage and phase match the supply. Ensure field connections are accessible for inspection.

5.4.2 Low Voltage Control System

The ERV has a Class II 24VAC power supply system for the EC control board. It can power external controls up to 8VA. The system includes isolation relays and a built-in 3A circuit breaker. Ensure connected devices are rated for 24VAC, wire gauge and length limits are observed, and the total load does not exceed 8VA.

CAUTION: Connect only to components intended for 24VAC power. Do not undersize low-voltage wires. Do not overload the 24VAC power supply system. If using an external 24VAC source, connect only to specified terminals and use CLASS II power.

5.4.3 How to Reset the 24VAC Circuit Breaker

If the circuit breaker trips due to overload or short circuit, shut off primary-side power, remove the fault, and press the reset button after approximately fifteen seconds.

5.4.4 Limits of Power Output

Control devices drawing up to 8VA can be connected to the blue and red wires, observing wire gauge and length limits for reliable operation.

"Circuit Length" is the distance from the ERV to the Control Device.

5.5 Wiring Schematics

Refer to diagrams for Single Phase Unit, Standard and Three Phase Unit, Standard (HE10RT Only).

5.6 External Control Connections

5.6.1 Fan Enable Field Circuit

Close contact between the yellow EN wire and the black COM wire to enable fan operation.

5.6.2 Fan Speed Selection Field Circuit

Open contact between the purple VAR wire and the black COM wire for SPEED 1. Close contact for SPEED 2.

5.6.3 Fan Speed Adjustment

SPEED 1 is adjusted via board-mounted potentiometers (EF for exhaust, SF for supply). SPEED 2 is adjusted via panel-mounted potentiometers (EA/RA motor for exhaust, OA/SA Motor for supply).

5.6.4 Analog Signal for Controlling SPEED 2

To use a 0-10VDC analog signal for SPEED 2: remove panel potentiometers, connect the remote analog signal to the yellow wire, connect the remote signal ground to the purple wire, and cap the orange wire.

5.7 Quick-Start for Testing Correct 3PH Wiring

Test-run 3-phase units immediately after high voltage wiring connections. This verifies phase connections, damper operation, and fan function. External controls are disabled during this test.

CAUTION: Ensure the control provides no voltage or current at its output terminals. Make low-voltage wiring changes with the disconnect switch OFF.

6.0 Operation

6.1 Principle of Operation

The HE07RT/HE10RT exhausts air from a structure and brings in outside air, transferring heating or cooling energy from the EA to the SA via the enthalpic core. The unit operates as long as the impeller can move air through the core.

6.2 Pre-Start Up

• Verify Voltages: Test input voltages to the disconnect switch; must be within +/- 10% of rated voltage.
• Verify Transformer Wiring: For 230VAC power, ensure the transformer's black primary wire is connected to the "240V" terminal.
• Inspect Filters: Clean filters must be installed.
• Inspect Foam Gasketing: Ensure no gaps around cores or filters.
• Inspect Fans: Rotate fans by hand to ensure they turn freely without rubbing.
• Inspect and Clean Cabinet Interior: Vacuum or wipe down the interior to remove dust and debris.
• Inspect Ductwork Connections: Ensure ducts are firmly attached, sealed, and supported.

6.3 Unit Start Up

Starting Up ECM Units: Turn the disconnect switch ON. Dampers will move to correct positions, then fans will run. Some units require an external actuation signal; verify wiring if applicable.

IMPORTANT: Balance airflows after the unit is operational and ductwork is installed. Optimum core efficiency is achieved with balanced airstreams.

6.4 Balancing Airflow

Confirm air movement at weatherhoods. For precise airflow measurement, install flow measuring stations and manometers. Use a magnehelic gauge and latex tubing to measure differential static pressure (DSP) across the core access doors.

To read SCFM of SA: Connect (+) to OA port, (-) to SA port.

To read SCFM of RA: Connect (+) to RA port, (-) to EA port.

Use the reading to cross-reference CFM output using the provided conversion chart.

CAUTION: Proper operating airflow range: HE07RT: 166-694 CFM; HE10RT: 250-1100 CFM.

6.4.1 Filter Pressure Drop

Graphs show initial pressure drop for MERV 8 and MERV 13 filters for HE07 and HE10 models.

6.5 Normal Operation

Various control schemes can be used (timers, sensors, BMS). Continuous operation is acceptable, but motors may overheat if filters are blocked. Some external frosting may occur in very cold weather.

6.6 Operation in Extreme Cold Weather

Units can operate without internal frosting down to -10°F with indoor humidity below 40%. Occasional operation under more severe conditions is possible. Exterior condensation may occur in extreme cold; periodically cycling the unit OFF can reduce this.

7.0 Maintenance

RenewAire ERVs require minimal maintenance. Focus on air filters and annual cleaning of enthalpic cores.

7.1 Maintenance 24 Hrs. After Start Up

Check air filters for dust, dirt, and debris, especially in new installations.

7.2 Maintenance 30 Days After Start Up

Tighten all electrical connections. Check air filters monthly.

WARNING: Danger of injury if unit starts unexpectedly. Switch power OFF at service disconnect. Lock-out/tag-out the disconnect.

WARNING: Danger of Electrical Shock when servicing. ALWAYS DISCONNECT POWER SOURCE BEFORE SERVICING. More than one disconnect switch may be required.

7.3 Maintenance Schedule

Establish a schedule based on experience. Filters may require more frequent inspection during pollen/dust seasons. Refer to Section 7.7 for Maintenance Records.

7.4 Filters

Inspect and replace air filters monthly. Do not use filter sprays. If filters appear dirty, replace them. For units with filter pressure differential sensors, a dirty filter alarm will indicate replacement is needed. If no sensor is present, replace filters every two months as a rule of thumb.

7.5 Impeller Motor

The motor requires no lubrication. Vacuum clean the impeller annually when cleaning the energy exchange element.

7.6 Enthalpic Core

CAUTION: Protect enthalpic cores from accidental damage from dropped tools or foreign objects.

7.6.1 Enthalpic Core Maintenance

Clean cores at least once per year. DO NOT WASH OR ALLOW CORES TO GET WET. DO NOT EXPOSE TO HIGH HEAT OR FLAMES. DO NOT USE COMPRESSED AIR DIRECTLY ON MEDIA. Use caution when working around cores; do not drop tools or bump/twist cores.

To clean, remove air filters and vacuum all exposed surfaces with a soft-bristle attachment. Focus on the first 1-2 inches of the inlet side.

7.6.2 Enthalpic Core Removal

Switch the main disconnect to OFF. Open the Energy Recovery Module door and pull the core straight out of its guides.

7.6.3 Enthalpic Core Replacement

Reinstall cores with foam gasketing toward the back of the ERV and the core label facing the front.

7.7 Maintenance Records

A log is provided to record dates of service for OA filter changes, RA filter changes, inspections/cleaning, core cleaning, and impeller cleaning.

7.8 Service Parts

Diagrams show service parts for HE07RT and HE10RT models, including doors, cores, impeller assemblies, filters, control board, transformer, fuse block, and disconnect.

8.0 Troubleshooting

Primary resources for troubleshooting are the unit as-built wiring schematics and the Sequence Of Operation (SOO) for the specific control scheme.

9.0 Factory Assistance

For factory assistance, have the unit information from the Unit Information page ready. Contact RenewAire Customer Service at 800-627-4499 or RenewAireSupport@RenewAire.com.

About RenewAire

RenewAire has been a pioneer in enhancing indoor air quality (IAQ) for over 40 years, specializing in static-plate, enthalpic-core Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs). Their products optimize energy efficiency, reduce capital costs, and lower operational expenses, leading to significant energy savings. RenewAire ERVs are competitively priced, easy to install, use, and maintain, with a quick payback and industry-leading warranty.

As the pioneer of static-plate core technology in North America and the largest ERV producer in the USA, RenewAire is committed to sustainable manufacturing. Their Waunakee, WI plant is 100% powered by wind turbines and is LEED Gold, Green Globes certified, and ENERGY STAR Building certified. In 2010, RenewAire joined the Soler & Palau (S&P) Ventilation Group to provide access to advanced air-moving technologies. Visit renewaire.com for more information.

Address: 201 Raemisch Road | Waunakee, WI | 53597 | Phone: 800.627.4499 | Website: RenewAire.com