Stale Air Return System

Ducting - Distribution

The stale air return system is used to draw air from the points in the building where the worst air quality problems occur. Balancing dampers and/or adjustable grilles are rec- ommended on all return air lines which are used during installation to help balance the “draw” from different areas of the building. Note that the installation should incorpo- rate the use of balancing dampers and/or adjustable grilles on all return air lines coming back to the unit.

Alternately, the stale air may be drawn directly from the return air duct. When this system is used the air handler’s blower will need to operate constantly when ventilation is required. The exhaust takeoff connection must be at least a meter from a directly connected HRV supply duct if both are connected to the same duct run.

A damper located just prior to the HRV is required to bal- ance the stale air exhausted with the fresh air supply entering the building.

Return air suction points should be located at the opposite side of the room to the fresh air inlet. The inlets may be located in the ceiling or high on the walls and fitted with inlet grilles.

Many commercial activities produce air contaminants in the form of dusts, fumes, mists, vapors and gases. Contami- nants should be controlled at the source so that they are not dispersed through the building nor allowed to increase to toxic concentration levels. The heat recovery ventilator allows for economical operation of the HVAC system while effectively removing contaminants from the space. In design- ing the exhaust portion of the system the exhaust grilles are placed so as to remove the contaminants while not allowing them to enter the breathing zone of the occupants.

For contaminants that are lighter than air, grilles should be located high on the wall. If contaminants are heavier than air, a lower placement of the grilles will be required. Information on a contaminants specific gravity and toxicity should be available from the chemical data sheets.

Fresh Air Supply System

The fresh air supply ductwork from the HRV may be di- rectly connected to the return air duct of the forced air sys- tem. When directly connected it is recommended that the air handler blower be in constant operation to move the fresh air about the building Also, it is advisable to include a short length of fabric flex duct or other nonmetallic connec- tor in this hard ducted line in order to keep the HRV acous- tically isolated and separately grounded (electrically) from the air handler. This will avoid a possible shock hazard to service people if a short to ground develops in one of the devices. It may be necessary to install a separate fresh air supply ductwork system if the heating is other than forced air.

When installing an HRV, the designer and installer should be aware of local codes that may require smoke detectors and/or firestats in the HVAC or HRV ductwork. Because an HRV is designed to bring fresh air into the building, struc- tures may require a supply voltage interrupt when smoke or flame sensors are triggered or central fire alarm system is activated.

Supply air grilles may be ceiling or high wall mounted. Avoid locating incoming fresh air grilles that could cause a direct draft on the occupants as the incoming air may be below room temperature. A reheat duct heater can be installed to improve occupant comfort. The use of balancing dampers or adjustable grilles as supply air diffusers and air exhaust grilles are recommended.

HRV 1500 SFD, 1500 SFDE specifications

The American Aldes HRV 1500 SFD and 1500 SFDE are advanced heat recovery ventilators designed to enhance indoor air quality while optimizing energy efficiency in residential and commercial spaces. These models utilize cutting-edge technology to ensure a constant supply of fresh air while simultaneously removing stale air, providing a balanced and healthy indoor environment.

One of the standout features of the HRV 1500 series is its high-performance heat exchanger. This component efficiently transfers heat from the outgoing stale air to the incoming fresh air, significantly reducing the energy loss typically associated with ventilation systems. As a result, buildings can maintain comfortable temperatures with reduced heating and cooling costs. The HRV 1500 SFD model is particularly effective for spaces up to 1500 square feet, while the HRV 1500 SFDE variant serves similar square footage with additional functionality.

Both models are equipped with a dual-fan design that ensures optimal airflow and distribution throughout the building. The fans operate quietly, providing a peaceful indoor atmosphere, and are designed for easy maintenance. The HRV 1500 series includes advanced filters that capture airborne particles, enhancing overall air quality. This feature is especially beneficial for allergy sufferers or those sensitive to pollutants.

Another notable characteristic of the HRV 1500 series is its user-friendly control system. The models seamlessly integrate with smart home technologies, allowing users to monitor and adjust ventilation settings remotely. Additionally, they come with intuitive controls that provide real-time feedback on airflow and system performance.

Energy efficiency is a cornerstone of the HRV 1500 series, which is certified by various energy standards, ensuring compliance with modern building codes. The robust design and durable materials used in these units provide long-term reliability, making them a wise investment for homeowners and building managers alike.

In summary, the American Aldes HRV 1500 SFD and 1500 SFDE heat recovery ventilators offer advanced technology, efficient performance, and a commitment to enhancing indoor air quality. With their high-efficiency heat exchangers, dual-fan systems, advanced filtration, and smart control capabilities, these models stand out in the market for effective residential and commercial ventilation solutions.