Fantech HERO Series Heat/Energy Recovery Ventilator (HRV/ERV)

Parts in the Box

• Heat/Energy Recovery Ventilator: 1 pc
• Hanging Bracket: 1 pc
• Hanging Chain: 1 pc
• Drain Hose Kit: 1 pc
• Quick Start Guide: 1 pc

Pièces dans la Boîte

• Ventilateur récupérateur de chaleur/énergie: 1 pc
• Support muraux: 1 pc
• Kit de suspension: 1 pc
• Tuyau d'évacuation: 1 pc
• Guide de Démarrage Rapide: 1 pc

General Installation Guidelines

Your ventilation system should be installed in conformance with the appropriate provincial requirements or, in the absence of such requirements, with the current edition of the National Building Code, and / or ASHRAE's “Good Engineering Practices”.

Votre système de ventilation doit être installé conformément aux exigences de la province où vous habitez ou, à défaut de telles exigences, conformément à l'édition actuelle du Code national du bâtiment du Canada ou aux « méthodes d'ingénierie appropriées » de l'ASHRAE.

Important Safety Information

Note: Icons indicating Note, Warning/Important note, Information, Technical information, and Practical tip are used throughout the manual.

ENERGY STAR®: This product earned the ENERGY STAR® by meeting strict energy efficiency guidelines set by Natural Resources Canada and the US EPA. This product meets ENERGY STAR requirements only when used in Canada.

To ensure quiet operation of the ENERGY STAR certified H/ERV, each product model must be installed using sound attenuation techniques appropriate for the installation.

The way your heat/energy-recovery ventilator is installed can make a significant difference to the electrical energy you use. To minimize the electricity use of the heat/energy recovery ventilator, a stand-alone fully ducted installation is recommended. If you choose a simplified installation that operates your forced air system for room-to-room ventilation, an electrically efficient system that has an electronically commutated (EC) variable speed blower motor will minimize your electrical energy consumption and operating cost.

Installation of a user-accessible control with your product model will improve comfort and may significantly reduce the product model's energy use.

PLEASE READ AND SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

For residential use only

Before installation, careful consideration must be given to how this system will operate if connected to any other piece of mechanical equipment, i.e., a forced air furnace or air handler operating at a higher static pressure. After installation, the compatibility of the two pieces of equipment must be confirmed by measuring the airflow of the Heat/Energy Recovery Ventilator (HRV/ERV) using the balancing procedure found in this manual.

It is always important to assess how the operation of any HRV/ERV may interact with vented combustion equipment (i.e., Gas Furnaces, Oil Furnaces, Wood Stoves, etc.).

Products are designed and manufactured to provide reliable performance, but they are not guaranteed to be 100% free of defects. Even reliable products will experience occasional failures, and this possibility should be recognized by the user. If these products are used in a life support ventilation system where failure could result in loss or injury, the user should provide adequate back-up ventilation, supplementary natural ventilation or failure alarm system, or acknowledge willingness to accept the risk of such loss or injury.

Your ventilation system should be installed in accordance with the local building code that is in effect. In the absence of such requirements, it is recommended to check with local authorities having jurisdiction in your area prior to installing this product.

Installation Types

HRV/ERV Ducting for Fully Dedicated System

Suggested for:

• Hydronic baseboard
• In floor heating
• Electric baseboard
• Mini split heat pump

Benefits: Provides the best fresh air distribution in the house; lowest operation cost since the forced air system is not needed.

Note: Make sure the HRV/ERV is capable of meeting the required airflow rate.

HRV/ERV Ducting to Forced Air System for Partially Dedicated System

Suggested for:

• Forced air system (central furnace or central air conditioner)
• When ducting fresh air to living area is not possible or practical, i.e. expensive or when the forced air system will operate year-round

Benefits: Conditions the fresh air prior to distributing it throughout the house.

Note: The forced air system blower must operate when ventilation from HRV/ERV is required. The system should be set to run continuously or interlocked with HRV/ERV. See forced air system electrical connection on page 16.

Note: A minimum separation of 1 m (39") is recommended between the two direct connections.

Note: Before operation, the HRV/ERV's airflow must be balanced on site. For this, use the procedure found in the section “AIRFLOW BALANCING”.

Note: During the balancing procedure, make sure the forced air system blower is running and the HRV/ERV is running at "Normal" speed.

Note: In the case of a multi-zone system, please contact Fantech customer service prior to installing any installation type requiring the use of the forced air system interlock.

Note: The HRV/ERV should only be paired with one forced air system. In the case where there are more than one forced air system please contact Fantech customer service prior to making a product selection.

HRV/ERV Ducting to Forced Air System for Simplified Installation

Suggested for:

• When bathroom and kitchen already have local exhaust system
• May be suitable for retrofitting

Benefits: Least expensive installation type.

Note: The forced air system blower must operate when ventilation from HRV/ERV is required. The system should be set to run continuously or interlocked with HRV/ERV. See forced air system electrical connection on page 16.

Note: A minimum separation of 1 m (39") is recommended between the two direct connections.

Note: To prevent exhausting any fresh air, the HRV/ERV's exhaust air connection should be upstream of the HRV/ERV's supply air connection.

Note: Before operation, the HRV/ERV's airflow must be balanced on site. For this, use the procedure found in the section “AIRFLOW BALANCING”.

Note: During the balancing procedure, make sure the forced air system blower is running and the HRV/ERV is running at "Normal" speed.

Note: In the case of a multi-zone system, please contact Fantech customer service prior to installing any installation type requiring the use of the forced air system interlock.

Note: The HRV/ERV should only be paired with one forced air system. In the case where there are more than one forced air system please contact Fantech customer service prior to making a product selection.

Installing the Outdoor Vents

Recommended Installation

Intake:

• Should be located upstream of prevailing winds from exhaust.
• At a minimum distance of 900 mm (3') away from dryer vents and furnace exhaust (medium or high efficiency furnaces), driveways, oil fill pipes, gas meters, or garbage containers.
• Do not locate in the garage, attic, crawl space, or underneath deck.

Locating the Exhaust Weatherhood

• Not near a gas meter, electric meter or a walkway where fog or ice could create a hazard.
• Do not locate in a garage, workshop or other unheated space.

Installation of the Vents

A well designed and installed ducting system will allow the HRV/ERV to operate at its maximum efficiency.

• The inner liner of the flexible insulated duct must be secured to the sleeve of the hood (as close to the outside as possible) and to the appropriate duct connection on the HRV/ERV.
• The insulation should remain full and not crushed.
• The outer liner, which acts as a vapor barrier, must be completely sealed to the outer wall and the HRV/ERV using tape and/or caulking.
• A good bead of high quality caulking (preferably acoustical sealant) will seal the inner flexible duct to both the HRV/ERV duct connection and the hood prior to securing them.
• To minimize airflow restriction, the flexible insulated duct that connects the two outside weatherhoods to the HRV/ERV should be stretched tightly and be as short as possible.
• Twisting or folding the duct will severely restrict airflow.

Steps:

1. Cut hole between wall studs.
2. Insert vent.
3. Secure vent with proper screws.
4. Seal using outdoor rated caulking.
5. Attach insulated duct from inside and tape.

Duct Installation

Connecting the Ducts to the HRV/ERV

Note: Do not handle unit by the collars/collar openings to avoid damaging the collars & foam insulation.

• Ducts should be kept short and have as few bends or elbows as possible.
• 45° elbows are preferable to 90°.
• Use "Y" ducts instead of "T" ducts whenever possible.
• All duct joints must be fastened with screws or duct sealant and wrapped with aluminum foil duct tape to prevent leakage.
• Galvanized ducting from the HRV/ERV to the living areas in the house is recommended whenever possible.
• The main supply and return line to/from the HRV/ERV must have the same diameter as the duct connection or larger.
• Branch lines to the individual rooms may be as small as 100mm (4").

Installing Duct to HRV/ERV

Position a 12" (300mm) section of nonmetallic flexible duct onto duct collar. Using (1) cable tie, attach flexible ducting with the correct HRV/ERV duct collar.

Supply Air Grilles Location

Without a forced air system: fresh air should be supplied to all habitable rooms from high wall or ceiling locations. Grilles that diffuse the air comfortably are recommended.

With a forced air system: Connect to the system's ductwork.

Exhaust Air Grille's Location

Draw stale air from the points where the worst air quality problems occur: bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room. Additional return air ducts from strategic locations may be installed. The forced air system return duct may also be used to exhaust from. In this method, the exhaust air is not ducted back from bathrooms, kitchens, etc to the HRV/ERV with "dedicated lines".

Note: As per building codes and installation requirements for combustion appliances: Air return ducts, or openings for air return, should not be placed in enclosed spaces containing combustion appliances that are subject to spillage.

Installing the Drain

For HRVs

Install the drain hose making a "P" trap, secure the condensate line drain to HRV by sliding into connection. Fill the condensate line with water.

For ERVs

Push the drain cap into the drain hole.

Mounting Options

Wall Mounting Bracket Installation

Mounting Kit Includes: A (x3), B (x3), C (x3)

Note: If using the 24" spacing available for the HERO 150, 200, 150-EC and 250-EC, move the vibration isolators.

Guidelines for Product Placement

Use the guidelines that follow to help decide where to put the product:

• For best performance, the space's temperature should be above 54°F (12°C).
• At a minimum, the space must be above freezing temperatures.
• Where servicing the product is convenient.
• Near an exterior wall where the hoods will be mounted.
• To keep noise to a minimum, install the product away from main living areas.
• Where the air quality is sufficient for occupants.

Chain Mount Installation

Installation Chain Mounting Kit Includes: C (x4), D (x4), E (x4), F (x4), G (x4)

When wall mount bracket is not convenient. Use a chain kit (which includes hanging chains, 10-24 screws, spring, and hooks).

Install a spring on each chain as shown to support the unit's weight and absorb vibrations.

DO NOT

Connecting appliances to the HRV/ERV is not recommended. These include:

• Clothes dryer
• Range top
• Stovetop fan
• Central vacuum system
• Bathroom exhaust fans unless they are specifically designed for this purpose

These appliances may cause lint, dust or grease to collect in the HRV/ERV, damaging the unit.

Note: Connecting any of these types of appliances to the HRV/ERV will void your warranty.

Wall Controls

Note: Please see instruction manuals for individual controls for proper wiring and set up of control systems.

Note: Ensure the unit is not plugged when connecting the control.

The wiring connectors can be removed for easier connection.

Central Controls

These cannot be used with another central control.

Note: Maintain polarity between the control and the product (+ → + ; - → -).

Note: Recirculation is only available with products with a damper.

ECO SERIES

ECO-Touch IAQ

• Integrated VOC Sensor
• Our most complete, yet easy-to-use control system
• Sleek design with backlight touchscreen LCD
• ECO mode selects the best operating mode and speed for the season, minimizing energy use associated with ventilation
• Set preferred indoor relative humidity range and ventilation mode for day and night conditions
• No battery to replace, all programmed settings are retained during power outages
• Maintenance reminder indicator
• Error code messages reduce troubleshooting time

ECO-Feel

• Integrated VOC Sensor
• No battery to replace, all programmed settings are retained during power outages
• ECO mode selects the best operating mode and speed for the season, minimizing energy use associated with ventilation

EDF SERIES

EDF8

• MODE button provides 3 modes of operations: VENTILATION, RECIRCULATION, and STANDBY mode.
• User selected fan speed: Reduced, Medium, Normal, and 20 minutes per hour.
• AUTO setting allows the homeowner to choose the humidity level.
• When the humidity exceeds the desired setpoint, the ventilation system operates at normal speed.
• Once the desired humidity level is achieved, your ventilation system resumes to its previous mode of operation.

EDF3

• Press button once for ECONO mode: continuous low or medium speed.
• Press button twice for 20 MIN/H mode: the unit will cycle 20 minutes ON/40 minutes OFF at intermittent speed and repeat.
• Press button three times for CONT mode: the unit will run continuously in ventilation or recirculation on HIGH speed.

Auxiliary Control

These controls can be paired with central controls or combined together.

Note: Maintain polarity between the control and the product (+ → + ; - → -).

RTS SERIES

RTS W

• Wireless timer
• Can only be paired with the ECO-Touch IAQ
• 20/40/60 minute timer with three LED lights
• Boosts system to high speed with the touch of a button
• Up to 5 can be used in one system
• Use in bathroom, kitchen, laundry room

RTS2*

• 20-minute timer with LED light
• Boosts system to high speed with the touch of a button
• Up to 5 can be used in one system
• Use in bathroom, kitchen, laundry room

RTS4

• 20/40/60 minute timer with three LED light
• Boosts system to high speed with the touch of a button
• Up to 5 can be used in one system
• Use in bathroom, kitchen, laundry room

RTS5*

• 20/40/60 minute timer with LED light
• Boosts system to high speed with the touch of a button
• Up to 5 can be used in one system
• Use in bathroom, kitchen, laundry room

MDEH SERIES

MDEH1

• Rotary dial Dehumidistat
• Multiple units can be used
• We recommend setting the relative humidity above 80% during the summer

Balancing

Balancing must be completed using the Fantech ECO-Touch® Programmable Touch Screen Wall Control.

Entering Balancing Mode

In the options menu during the initial 5 second countdown sequence, long press on "ECO" area for 5 seconds to enter basic balancing mode.

The supply and exhaust fans are adjusted on high speed only and the offsets are proportionally applied to the medium and low speed automatically.

Stage 1: Adjust Level of Exhaust Fan in High Speed

• In this step, balance exhaust fan and measure airflow on the exhaust air side.
• Pressing on "up" or "down" will adjust the fan speed in increments of 1%.
• Once the desired exhaust airflow is reached, press on "next" and move on to the next stage.

Stage 2: Balance Supply Fan Only in High Speed

• In this step, balance supply fan and measure airflow on the supply air side.
• Pressing on "up" or "down" will adjust the fan speed in increments of 1%.
• Once happy with the outcome, press on "next" to complete balancing.
• The supply and exhaust offset values will be proportionally applied to low and medium speed as well.

Wiring Diagrams

Wiring Diagram - HERO 100E, 120H, 150H, 200H

This section details the wiring for the HERO 100E, 120H, 150H, and 200H models, including jumper settings for different CFM (ERV/HRV) configurations.

Wiring Diagram - HERO 150H-EC, 250H-EC (CONT'D)

This section details the wiring for the HERO 150H-EC and 250H-EC models, including jumper settings for different CFM (HRV) configurations.

Wiring Diagram to Forced Air System

This section provides diagrams for connecting the HRV/ERV to a forced air system, including standard and alternative accessory control contacts.

Note: Never connect a 120 volt AC circuit to the terminals of the Accessory Control Contacts. Only use the low voltage class 2 circuit of the forced air system blower control.

Control Hierarchy / Operations

The ventilation product prioritizes control signals as follows: Remote Off (S+/S-) > Timer (T+/T-) > Defrost Cycle (internal) > Dehumidistat (D+/D-) > Four-wire controller (B/A) > Two-wire controller (W/W) > Speed selection switch.

The speed selection switch is installed on or near the electrical box of the ventilation product. The selections available are:

• Reduced (low) speed
• Standby
• Normal (high) speed

The reduced and normal settings will keep the product in operation continuously if another function with a higher priority is not activated.

12 VDC supply is available through connections across the terminals:

• D+ and ground
• S- and ground

24 VAC supply is labeled on the control board located in the electrical box. Please call customer service for more information on install types and power supply limits.

Troubleshooting

This section provides a table of common problems, their causes, and solutions for the HRV/ERV unit.

• Air is too dry: Dehumidistat setting too low, HRV/ERV out of balance. Solutions: Increase humidity, balance HRV/ERV.
• Air is too humid: Dehumidistat setting too high. Solution: Reduce humidity.
• Persistent condensation on window: Sudden temperature change, improper wood storage, dryer vent exhaust inside home, poor air circulation near windows, HRV/ERV out of balance, sealed basement door. Solutions: Wait for temperature stabilization, store wood outside, ensure dryer vent is external, open curtains/blinds, balance HRV/ERV, open door or install grill.
• Poor Air Flows: HRV/ERV out of balance, plugged exterior hoods, plugged filters, obstructed core, closed/blocked indoor grilles, inadequate power supply, restricted ductwork, improper speed control. Solutions: Balance HRV/ERV, clean hoods/filters/core, open grilles, check power supply, check duct installation, increase speed.
• Supply air feels cold: HRV/ERV airflow improperly balanced, ducting fallen or disconnected, poor supply grille location. Solutions: Balance HRV/ERV, reconnect ducting, relocate grilles.
• Condensation or Ice Build Up in Insulated Duct to the Outside: Outdoor temperature extremely cold, HRV/ERV airflow improperly balanced, malfunction of HRV/ERV defrost system, incomplete vapor barrier, hole/tear in outer duct covering. Solutions: Reduce supply air temperature, balance HRV/ERV, check defrost system, tape and seal ducting.
• LED is flashing: Everything is in good operations.
• LED is not flashing: No power transmitted to the control board. Solutions: Ensure unit is plugged in, check transformer.

Note: It is best to get the unit checked by a certified HVAC Contractor/Technician.

Filter Location

The filters are located within the unit. Optional filters include MERV8 and MERV13 for HERO 150H, 150H-EC, 200H, and 250H-EC models.

HRV/ERV Maintenance Chart

This chart outlines the required maintenance, recommended frequency, and provides space to record maintenance performed.

• Check and Clean Electrostatic Filters: Every 3 months or if dirty.
• Check and replace MERV8/MERV13 Filter: Every 3 months or if dirty.
• Check Heat Recovery Core: Every 6 months.
• Check Drain Pan and Lines: Every 3 months.
• Vacuum the Inside of the Unit: Annually.
• Clean and Un-block Outside Hoods: Annually.
• Clean and Inspect Duct Work: Annually.
• General Servicing by a Qualified Contractor: Annually.

Note: Schedule may be altered to meet your own needs. More frequent servicing may be required depending on the severity of your home's indoor and outdoor environments.

Warranty

Fantech offers a limited warranty including a 7-year warranty on the motor and a 5-year warranty on electrical components and the core. For updated documentation and warranty details, visit www.fantech.net or contact Fantech customer support.