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:
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.
- Use this unit only as intended by the manufacturer. For questions, contact the manufacturer at the address or phone number listed in the warranty.
- Before servicing or cleaning, disconnect the power cord from the electrical outlet.
- This unit is not designed to provide combustion and/or dilution air for fuel-burning appliances.
- When cutting or drilling into walls or ceilings, avoid damaging electrical wiring and other hidden utilities.
- Do not use this unit with any solid-state speed control device other than those listed below:
Units | Optional Main Controls | Optional Auxiliary Controls |
---|---|---|
HRV150S | VT7W, VT4W or VT6W | VB20W and 59W |
HRV190S | ||
ERV180S |
- 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.
- Do not install in a cooking area or connect directly to any appliances.
- Do not use to exhaust hazardous or explosive materials and vapors.
- When performing installation, servicing, or cleaning, wear safety glasses and gloves.
- Due to the unit's weight, two installers are recommended for installation.
- If local regulations impose more restrictive installation or certification requirements, those requirements prevail. The installer agrees to conform to these at their own expense.
- To avoid premature clogged filters, turn OFF the unit during construction or renovation.
- Read the specification label on the product for further information and requirements.
- Ensure air is ducted outside. Do not intake/exhaust air into spaces within walls, ceilings, attics, crawl spaces, or garages.
- Intended for residential installation only in accordance with NFPA 90B (for units installed in the USA).
- 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.
- Ductwork must be installed in compliance with all local and national codes.
- When leaving the house for a long period (more than two weeks), a responsible person should regularly check if the unit operates adequately.
- 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) | Defrosting | Operation Time Between Each Defrost Cycles | Extended Defrost Cycles Defrosting | Extended Defrost Cycles Operation Time Between Each Defrost Cycles |
---|---|---|---|---|
23 | 7 | 50 | 10 | 30 |
5 | 7 | 25 | 10 | 20 |
-17 | 10 | 20 | 10 | 15 |
ERV180S Unit Defrost Cycles (Minutes)
Outdoor Temperature Fahrenheit (°F) | Defrosting | Operation Time Between Each Defrost Cycles | Extended Defrost Cycles Defrosting | Extended Defrost Cycles Operation Time Between Each Defrost Cycles |
---|---|---|---|---|
23 | 10 | 60 | 10 | 30 |
5 | 10 | 30 | 10 | 20 |
-17 | 10 | 20 | 10 | 15 |
HRV190S Unit Defrost Cycles (Minutes)
Outdoor Temperature Fahrenheit (°F) | Defrosting | Operation Time Between Each Defrost Cycles | Extended Defrost Cycles Defrosting | Extended Defrost Cycles Operation Time Between Each Defrost Cycles |
---|---|---|---|---|
23 | 6 | 50 | 10 | 30 |
5 | 6 | 25 | 10 | 20 |
-17 | 10 | 20 | 10 | 15 |
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
MODEL | HRV150S | HRV190S | ERV180S |
---|---|---|---|
WEIGHT | 65 LB. | 65 LB. | 76 LB. |
PORT DIAMETER | 6" | 6" | 6" |
DRAIN DIAMETER | 1/2" | 1/2" | 1/2" |
INSTALLATION | CHAINS AND SPRINGS (PROVIDED WITH THE UNIT) | ||
MOTOR SPEED | HIGH AND LOW SPEED FACTORY SET (OPTIONAL INCREASED LOW SPEED) | ||
ELECTRICAL SUPPLY | 120 V, 60 Hz | 120 V, 60 Hz | 120 V, 60 Hz |
POWER CONSUMPTION | 160 WATTS | 195 WATTS | 200 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.
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.
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
3.1 Inspect the Content of the Box
- Inspect the exterior of the unit for shipping damage (door, latches, hinges, dampers, duct collars, cabinet, etc.).
- Inspect the interior for damage (fan motor assembly, recovery module, insulation, dampers, condensation tray).
- If damaged during shipping, contact your local distributor. Claims must be made within 24 hours of delivery.
3.2 Locating and Mounting the Unit
Choose an appropriate location for the unit:
- Within an area where ambient temperature is kept between 50°F and 104°F (10°C and 40°C).
- Away from living areas (dining room, living room, bedroom), if possible.
- Providing easy access to the interior cabinet for maintenance (every three months and annually) and to the control panel.
- Close to an exterior wall to limit the length of insulated flexible duct.
- Close to a drain. If no drain is nearby, use a pail to collect run-off.
- Away from hot chimneys, electrical panels, and other fire hazards.
- Allow for a standard electrical outlet power source.
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
- Follow instructions in Section 3.4 to determine appropriate duct diameters.
- Keep it simple: Plan for a minimum number of bends and joints. Keep insulated duct length to a minimum.
- Do not use wall cavities as ducts. Do not use branch lines smaller than 4" (102 mm) diameter.
- 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.
- 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 DIAMETER | RECOMMENDED AIR FLOW | MAXIMUM AIR FLOW | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
CFM | L/S | m³/h | CFM | L/S | m³/h | |
4" (102 mm) | 40 | 19 | 68 | 60 | 28 | 102 |
5" (127 mm) | 75 | 35 | 127 | 110 | 52 | 187 |
6" (152 mm) | 120 | 57 | 204 | 180 | 85 | 306 |
7" (178 mm) | 185 | 87 | 314 | 270 | 127 | 459 |
8" (203 mm) | 260 | 123 | 442 | 380 | 179 | 645 |
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).
- Main duct: The table indicates a 6" diameter duct has a recommended air flow of 120 cfm and a maximum air flow of 180 cfm. The high speed air flow of 140 cfm is close to the recommended value (120) and far from the maximum (180). Therefore, a 6" diameter duct or larger is appropriate for the main exhaust duct.
- End branches: Each end branch will transport an air flow of 70 cfm (140 divided by 2). The table indicates a 5" diameter duct has a recommended air flow of 75 cfm and a maximum air flow of 110 cfm. The 70 cfm flow is close to the recommended value (75) and far from the maximum (110). Therefore, a 5" diameter duct or larger is appropriate for the two end branches.
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
3.5.1 Fully Ducted System (as illustrated in Section 2.1)
Stale Air Exhaust Ductwork:
- Install registers in areas where contaminants are produced: kitchen, bathrooms, laundry room, etc.
- Install registers 6 to 12 inches from the ceiling on an interior wall OR in the ceiling.
- Install the kitchen register at least 4 feet from the range.
- If possible, measure air velocity through registers. If velocity exceeds 400 ft/min., the register type is too small; replace with a larger one.
Fresh Air Distribution Ductwork:
- Install registers in bedrooms, dining room, living room, and basement.
- Install registers either in the ceiling or high on walls with airflow directed towards the ceiling. (Cooler air will cross the upper part of the room and mix with room air before descending to occupant level.)
- If a register must be floor-installed, direct airflow up the wall.
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.
There are two methods for connecting the unit to the furnace:
Method 1: Supply Side Connection
- Cut an opening into the furnace supply duct at least 18 inches from the furnace.
- Connect this opening to the fresh air distribution port of the HRV/ERV (use metal duct).
- Ensure the HRV/ERV duct forms an elbow inside the furnace ductwork.
- If desired, interlock (synchronize) the furnace blower operation with the HRV/ERV operation (see Section 5).
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
- Cut an opening into the furnace return duct not less than 10 feet from the furnace (A+B).
- Connect this opening to the fresh air distribution port of the HRV/ERV.
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)
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:
- Cut an opening into the furnace return duct not less than 10 feet from the furnace.
- Connect this opening to the stale air intake port of the HRV/ERV.
Fresh Air Distribution:
Same instructions as for Method 1 or Method 2, section 3.5.2 in previous page.
3. Installation (cont'd)
3.6 Connecting the Ducts to the Unit
Insulated Flexible Ducts
Use the following procedure for connecting insulated flexible duct to the unit ports (exhaust to outside and fresh air from outside):
- Pull back the insulation to expose the flexible duct and place it over the inner port ring.
- Install good quality aluminum duct tape on the flexible duct to prevent potential water leakage.
- Attach the flexible duct to the port using a tie wrap.
- Pull the insulation over the joint and tuck it between the inner and outer rings of the double collar.
- 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.
Rigid Ducts
To prevent potential water leakage from ducts, use good quality aluminum duct tape 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:
- At a minimum distance of 10 feet between the hoods to avoid cross-contamination.
- At a minimum distance of 18 inches from the ground.
- Dryer exhaust, high efficiency furnace vent, central vacuum vent
- Gas meter exhaust, gas barbecue-grill
- Any exhaust from a combustion source
- Garbage bin and any other source of contamination.
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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