Broan Installer Manual for HRV150S, HRV190S, and ERV180S Ventilation Units

About This Manual

This publication covers multiple models, so illustrations may vary slightly from your specific unit. The manual uses the following symbols to highlight important information:

⚠ WARNING: Identifies an instruction which, if not followed, might cause serious personal injuries, including possibility of death.
CAUTION: Denotes an instruction which, if not followed, may severely damage the unit and/or its components.
NOTE: Indicates supplementary information needed to fully complete an instruction.

Broan-NuTone LLC welcomes suggestions regarding this manual or the unit. Contact Broan-NuTone LLC by phone at 1-800-558-1711.

About These Units

Limitation

These units are intended for residential (domestic) installation only. Installation and electrical wiring must be performed by qualified personnel in accordance with all applicable codes and standards, including fire-rated construction codes.

⚠ WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to person(s), observe the following:
  1. Use this unit only as intended by the manufacturer. For questions, contact the manufacturer at the address or phone number listed in the warranty.
  2. Before servicing or cleaning, disconnect the power cord from the electrical outlet.
  3. This unit is not designed to provide combustion and/or dilution air for fuel-burning appliances.
  4. When cutting or drilling into walls or ceilings, avoid damaging electrical wiring and other hidden utilities.
  5. Do not use this unit with any solid-state speed control device other than those listed below:
UnitsOptional Main ControlsOptional Auxiliary Controls
HRV150SVT7W, VT4W or VT6WVB20W and 59W
HRV190S
ERV180S
  1. This unit must be grounded. The power supply cord has a 3-prong grounding plug for personal safety. It must be plugged into a mating 3-prong grounding receptacle, grounded in accordance with national electrical code and local codes. Do not remove the ground prong or use an extension cord.
  2. Do not install in a cooking area or connect directly to any appliances.
  3. Do not use to exhaust hazardous or explosive materials and vapors.
  4. When performing installation, servicing, or cleaning, wear safety glasses and gloves.
  5. Due to the unit's weight, two installers are recommended for installation.
  6. If local regulations impose more restrictive installation or certification requirements, those requirements prevail. The installer agrees to conform to these at their own expense.
CAUTION
  1. To avoid premature clogged filters, turn OFF the unit during construction or renovation.
  2. Read the specification label on the product for further information and requirements.
  3. Ensure air is ducted outside. Do not intake/exhaust air into spaces within walls, ceilings, attics, crawl spaces, or garages.
  4. Intended for residential installation only in accordance with NFPA 90B (for units installed in the USA).
  5. Do not run air ducts directly above or closer than 2 ft to any furnace or its supply plenum, boiler, or other heat-producing appliance. If a duct must connect to the furnace return plenum, it must be connected not closer than 9' 10" from this plenum connection to the furnace.
  6. Ductwork must be installed in compliance with all local and national codes.
  7. When leaving the house for a long period (more than two weeks), a responsible person should regularly check if the unit operates adequately.
  8. If ductwork passes through an unconditioned space (e.g., attic), the unit must operate continuously except during maintenance/repair. The ambient temperature of the house should never drop below 65°F.

1. Technical Data

1.1 Air Distribution (Normal Operation)

Diagram showing air flow paths during normal operation. Fresh outdoor air (blue arrows) is supplied to the living space, and stale indoor air (red arrows) is exhausted from the living space. Heat is exchanged between the two air streams within the unit's core.

1.2 Air Distribution (Defrost Mode)

Diagram showing air flow paths during defrost mode. The outdoor air intake is temporarily closed, and indoor air is recirculated through the core to melt any ice buildup, indicated by the blue arrows recirculating within the unit and red arrows showing exhaust.

1.3 Defrost Cycles Tables

HRV150S Unit Defrost Cycles (Minutes)

Outdoor Temperature Fahrenheit (°F)DefrostingOperation Time Between Each Defrost CyclesExtended Defrost Cycles DefrostingExtended Defrost Cycles Operation Time Between Each Defrost Cycles
237501030
57251020
-1710201015

ERV180S Unit Defrost Cycles (Minutes)

Outdoor Temperature Fahrenheit (°F)DefrostingOperation Time Between Each Defrost CyclesExtended Defrost Cycles DefrostingExtended Defrost Cycles Operation Time Between Each Defrost Cycles
2310601030
510301020
-1710201015

HRV190S Unit Defrost Cycles (Minutes)

Outdoor Temperature Fahrenheit (°F)DefrostingOperation Time Between Each Defrost CyclesExtended Defrost Cycles DefrostingExtended Defrost Cycles Operation Time Between Each Defrost Cycles
236501030
56251020
-1710201015
NOTE: The HRV and ERV Performance Charts are listed on the specification sheets of these units. Visit the Broan-NuTone LLC website at www.broan-nutone.com to access those documents.

1. Technical Data (cont'd)

1.4 Dimensions

1.4.1 HRV150S and HRV190S

Diagram showing the dimensions and components of HRV150S and HRV190S units. The unit measures approximately 35 inches (891 mm) wide and 30.25 inches (768 mm) deep. The heat recovery core is 17.25 inches (438 mm) high and 17 inches (432 mm) wide, with 6-inch (152 mm) diameter ports. Key components include a motorized damper, terminal block location, door, blower assembly, and power cord (36 inches / 914 mm).

1.4.2 ERV180S

Diagram showing the dimensions and components of the ERV180S unit. The unit measures approximately 39 inches (991 mm) wide and 34 inches (864 mm) deep. The energy recovery core is 17.25 inches (438 mm) high and 17 inches (432 mm) wide, with 6-inch (152 mm) diameter ports. Key components include a motorized damper, terminal block location, door, blower assembly, and power cord (36 inches / 914 mm).

1.5 Specifications

MODELHRV150SHRV190SERV180S
WEIGHT65 LB.65 LB.76 LB.
PORT DIAMETER6"6"6"
DRAIN DIAMETER1/2"1/2"1/2"
INSTALLATIONCHAINS AND SPRINGS (PROVIDED WITH THE UNIT)
MOTOR SPEEDHIGH AND LOW SPEED FACTORY SET (OPTIONAL INCREASED LOW SPEED)
ELECTRICAL SUPPLY120 V, 60 Hz120 V, 60 Hz120 V, 60 Hz
POWER CONSUMPTION160 WATTS195 WATTS200 WATTS

2. Typical Installations

There are three common installation methods for these units:

2.1 Fully Ducted System

This system is primarily for homes with radiant hot water or electric baseboard heating. Moist, stale air is exhausted from high humidity areas (bathrooms, kitchen, laundry room), and fresh air is supplied to bedrooms and main living areas. Bathroom fans and range hoods can supplement stale air exhaust. Homes with multiple levels require at least one exhaust register at the highest level.

Diagram shows a fully ducted system where the ventilation unit has dedicated ducts for fresh air supply to various rooms and stale air exhaust from high humidity areas, independent of the furnace ductwork.

2.2 Exhaust Ducted System (Source Point Ventilation)

This system is for homes with forced air heating. Moist, stale air is exhausted from high humidity areas (bathrooms, kitchen, laundry room). Fresh air is supplied to the cold air return or the supply duct of the furnace. Bathroom fans and range hoods can supplement stale air exhaust. Homes with multiple levels require at least one exhaust register at the highest level.

NOTE: For this type of installation, it is not essential that the furnace blower runs when the unit is in operation, but Broan-NuTone LLC recommends it.

Diagram shows an exhaust ducted system where stale air is exhausted from specific points, and fresh air is supplied to the furnace's return or supply duct.

2.3 Simplified (Volume Ventilation)

This system is for homes with forced air heating. Fresh air and exhaust air flow through the furnace ducts, simplifying installation. The use of bathroom fans and a range hood is suggested to exhaust stale air.

NOTE: For this type of installation, the furnace blower must be running when the unit is in operation.

Diagram shows a simplified installation where the ventilation unit connects directly to the furnace's ductwork, allowing fresh and exhaust air to be distributed via the existing furnace system.

3. Installation

⚠ WARNING: When applicable local regulations comprise more restrictive installation and/or certification requirements, those requirements prevail. The installer agrees to conform to these at their own expense.
⚠ WARNING: When performing installation, servicing, or cleaning the unit, it is recommended to wear safety glasses and gloves.

3.1 Inspect the Content of the Box

NOTE: Prior to installation, remove the shipping bracket by unscrewing its wing nut and loosening its retaining screws. Diagram shows a shipping bracket secured by a wing nut and retaining screws.

3.2 Locating and Mounting the Unit

Choose an appropriate location for the unit:

Hang the unit with the 4 chains and springs provided. Diagrams illustrate the unit being hung from a ceiling using chains and springs, showing the top and side views of the hanging mechanism.

3.3 Planning of the Ductwork

  1. Follow instructions in Section 3.4 to determine appropriate duct diameters.
  2. Keep it simple: Plan for a minimum number of bends and joints. Keep insulated duct length to a minimum.
  3. Do not use wall cavities as ducts. Do not use branch lines smaller than 4" (102 mm) diameter.
  4. Do not ventilate crawl spaces or cold rooms. Do not attempt to recover exhaust air from a dryer or a range hood, as this would clog the recovery module. Use sheet metal for kitchen exhaust ducts.
  5. Plan for at least one exhaust register on the highest lived-in level of the house if it has 2 floors or more.

3. Installation (cont'd)

3.4 Calculating the Duct Size

Use the table below to ensure ducts carry air flows at or under recommended values. Avoid installing ducts that carry air flows near maximum values, and never install a duct if its air flow exceeds the maximum value.

DUCT DIAMETERRECOMMENDED AIR FLOWMAXIMUM AIR FLOW
CFML/Sm³/hCFML/Sm³/h
4" (102 mm)4019686028102
5" (127 mm)753512711052187
6" (152 mm)1205720418085306
7" (178 mm)18587314270127459
8" (203 mm)260123442380179645
NOTE: Examples 3.4.1 and 3.4.2 use imperial measures. The same calculation applies to metric measures.

3.4.1 Example of Calculation

PROBLEM: An installation requires two exhaust registers (one for the kitchen, one for the bathroom). These registers will connect to a main duct, which connects to the unit (high speed performance value of 140 cfm). What size of duct should be used for the main exhaust duct and for the two end branches leading to the registers?

SOLUTION: Simplified method (for a more detailed method, refer to ASHRAE or HRAI HANDBOOK).

NOTE: A 4" diameter duct would have been too small because its maximum acceptable value is 60 cfm.

Diagram illustrates a main exhaust branch (6" diameter, 140 CFM) splitting into two end branches (5" diameter, 70 CFM each) connecting to registers.

3.4.2 Example of a Design for a Fully Ducted System for a Unit Having a High Speed Performance of 222 CFM

Diagram illustrates a complex fully ducted system with various duct diameters and CFM values for a unit with 222 CFM high-speed performance. It shows multiple branches for both supply and exhaust, with duct sizes ranging from 4" to 7" and corresponding airflows.

3. Installation (cont'd)

3.5 Installing the Ductwork and the Registers

⚠ WARNING: Never install a stale air exhaust register in a room with a combustion device, such as a gas furnace, a gas water heater, or a fireplace.
CAUTION: The ductwork must be installed in compliance with all local and national codes.

3.5.1 Fully Ducted System (as illustrated in Section 2.1)

Stale Air Exhaust Ductwork:
Fresh Air Distribution Ductwork:

3.5.2 Exhaust Ducted System (as illustrated in Section 2.2)

Stale Air Exhaust Ductwork:

Same as for Fully Ducted System, described in point 3.5.1 above.

Fresh Air Distribution:

Same instructions as for Method 1 or Method 2, section 3.5.2 in previous page.

⚠ WARNING: When performing duct connection to the furnace, installation must be done in accordance with all applicable codes and standards. Refer to your local building code.
CAUTION: When connecting to the furnace supply duct, this duct must be sized to support the additional airflow produced by the ERV/HRV. Use metal duct. It is recommended that the ERV/HRV runs when the furnace is in operation to prevent backdrafting inside the ERV/HRV.

There are two methods for connecting the unit to the furnace:

Method 1: Supply Side Connection

Diagram shows Method 1: Supply Side Connection, where the ventilation unit's fresh air duct connects to the furnace supply duct at least 18 inches from the furnace, forming an elbow inside the ductwork.

Method 2: Return Side Connection
NOTE: For Method 2, it is not essential that the furnace blower runs when the unit is in operation, but Broan-NuTone LLC recommends it. If desired, synchronize the furnace blower operation with the HRV/ERV operation (see Section 5).

Diagram shows Method 2: Return Side Connection, where the ventilation unit's fresh air duct connects to the furnace return duct at least 10 feet from the furnace.

3. Installation (cont'd)

3.5 Installing the Ductwork and the Registers (cont'd)

3.5.3 Simplified Installation (as illustrated in Section 2.3)

⚠ WARNING: When performing duct connection to the furnace, installation must be done in accordance with all applicable codes and standards. Refer to your local building code.
CAUTION: When connecting to the furnace ducts (Method 1), these ducts must be sized to support the additional airflow produced by the ERV/HRV. The supply duct must be metal. It is recommended that the ERV/HRV runs when the furnace is in operation to prevent backdrafting inside the ERV/HRV.

There are two methods for connecting the unit to the furnace ducts:

Method 1: Return-Supply

Diagram shows Method 1: Return-Supply connection, where the unit's stale air intake connects to the furnace return duct (at least 10 feet from furnace) and fresh air distribution connects to the furnace supply duct (at least 18 inches from furnace).

Method 2: Return-Return

Diagram shows Method 2: Return-Return connection, where both the unit's stale air intake and fresh air distribution connect to the furnace return duct, with a minimum 3-foot separation between connections.

Stale Air Intake:
Fresh Air Distribution:

Same instructions as for Method 1 or Method 2, section 3.5.2 in previous page.

CAUTION: If using Method 2, ensure the furnace blower operation is synchronized with the unit operation! See Section 5.
NOTE: For Method 2 (Return-Return), ensure a distance of at least 3 feet between the two connections to the furnace duct. For Method 1, it is not essential to synchronize the furnace blower operation with the HRV/ERV operation, but Broan-NuTone LLC recommends it.

3. Installation (cont'd)

3.6 Connecting the Ducts to the Unit

CAUTION: If ducts must pass through an unconditioned space (e.g., attic), always use insulated ducts.

Insulated Flexible Ducts

Use the following procedure for connecting insulated flexible duct to the unit ports (exhaust to outside and fresh air from outside):

  1. Pull back the insulation to expose the flexible duct and place it over the inner port ring.
  2. Install good quality aluminum duct tape on the flexible duct to prevent potential water leakage.
  3. Attach the flexible duct to the port using a tie wrap.
  4. Pull the insulation over the joint and tuck it between the inner and outer rings of the double collar.
  5. Pull down the vapor barrier (shaded part in illustrations) over the outer ring to cover it completely. Fasten in place the vapor barrier using the port strap (included in unit parts bag). Insert one collar pin through the vapor barrier and first strap hole, then insert the other collar pin through the vapor barrier and center strap hole, and close the loop by inserting the first collar pin in the last strap hole.

Diagrams illustrate the 5-step process of connecting insulated flexible ducts to the unit ports, showing the layers of duct, insulation, and vapor barrier, and how they are secured with tape, tie wraps, and collar pins.

CAUTION: Ensure the vapor barrier on insulated ducts does not tear during installation to avoid condensation within the ducts.

Rigid Ducts

To prevent potential water leakage from ducts, use good quality aluminum duct tape to connect rigid ducts to the ports.

CAUTION: Do not use screws to connect rigid ducts to the ports.

Ensure both balancing dampers are left in a fully open position before connecting the Fresh air to building port and Exhaust air from building port. Diagram shows the open position of balancing dampers on the unit's ports.

3. Installation (cont'd)

3.7 Installing the Exterior Hoods

Choose an appropriate location for installing the exterior hoods:

⚠ WARNING: Ensure the intake hood is at least 6 feet away from any of the following:

Diagram illustrates the recommended distances for exterior hood installation, showing exhaust and intake hoods separated by at least 10 feet horizontally and 18 inches from the ground. It also indicates optional duct location and the use of tape and duct ties for connections, with caulking around the hood.

Refer to the illustration for connecting the insulated duct to the hoods. An

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