Installation

Air Duct Design and Installation

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

Always try to keep duct runs as short and straight as pos- sible. See Installation Diagrams for various installation options.

The inner and outer liners of the flexible insulated duct must be clamped to the sleeve of the weather hoods (as close to the outside as possible) and the appropriate port on the HRV. It is very important that the fresh air intake line be given special attention to make sure it is well sealed. A good bead of high quality caulking (preferably

silicone sealant) will seal the inner flexible duct to both the HRV port and the weather hood prior to clamping with a large zip tie.

To minimize air flow restriction, the flexible insulated duct that connects the two outside weather hoods to the HRV should be stretched tightly and be as short as possible.

Twisting or folding the duct will severely restrict air flow. See below for the recommended connection of flexible insulated ducts to the the outside weather hoods and the HRV.

Installing the Ducting Between

the HRV & Living Areas in the Home

To maximize airflow in the duct system, all ducts should be kept short and have as few bends or elbows as possi- ble. Forty-five degree elbows are preferred to 90° elbows. Use “Y” tees instead of 90° elbows whenever possible.

All duct joints must be fastened with screws, rivets or duct sealant and wrapped with mastic or a quality duct tape to prevent leakage. Mastic is preferred but if duct tape is used, we recommend aluminum foil duct tape.

Galvanized ducting from the HRV to the living areas in the house is recommended whenever possible, although flexi- ble duct can be used in moderation if necessary.

To avoid possible noise transfer through the duct system, a short length (approximately 12 inches or 300mm) of non- metallic flexible insulated duct should be connected between the HRV and the supply/exhaust duct system.

The main supply and return lines to/from the HRV must be the same size or larger than the duct connection collar. Branch lines to the individual rooms may be as small as 4 inches (100mm), but 5 inch (125mm) lines are preferred .

All ducts running through attics and unheated spaces must be sealed and insulated to code.

Fresh Air Ducting

In applications that do not include an air handler, fresh air should be supplied to all bedrooms and living areas, excluding bathrooms, kitchen and utility areas. Grilles should be located high on a wall or in ceiling locations.

WARNING

Include a short length of fabric, flex duct or other non-metallic connector in the “Fresh Air to Building” hard ducted line in order to keep the HRV 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.

Grilles that diffuse the air comfortably such as the Round Diffuser are recommended.

If the floor is the only option available, then special care should be taken in locating grilles. Areas such as under baseboard heaters will help to temper the air. Also option- al inline duct heaters are available for mounting in the supply duct work to add heat if required.

Direct Connection to Air Handler Duct System

Should you wish to hard duct the fresh air from the HRV directly into the cold air return of the air handler, remem- ber to check the air flow balance of the HRV with the air handler fan both "ON" and "OFF" to determine that it does not imbalance the unit more than 10%.

Indirect Connection to Air Handler Duct System

If permitted by local codes, an indirect connection may be made between the HRV fresh air duct and the air handler return plenum. The fresh air from the unit may be directed at a grille installed in the cold air return duct of the air han- dler. The fresh air outlet from the HRV should be no closer than 4 inches (100mm) and no more than 12 inches (300mm) from the grille.

FRESH AIR

FROM HRV

4" MINIMUM

RETURN AIR

12" MAXIMUM

DUCT FOR

 

AIR HANDLER

9

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Lifebreath 120ERV, RNC120F installation manual Installation Air Duct Design and Installation, Fresh Air Ducting
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120ERV, RNC120F specifications

The Lifebreath RNC120F,120ERV is a highly efficient energy recovery ventilator designed to promote better indoor air quality while minimizing energy consumption. This model is ideal for a variety of residential applications, providing a cost-effective solution for ensuring a continual supply of fresh outdoor air into living spaces. The RNC120F,120ERV features advanced technologies that allow it to operate efficiently, making it a favorable choice among homeowners and building professionals alike.

One of the standout features of the RNC120F,120ERV is its energy recovery capability. This system can recover up to 85% of the energy from the outgoing stale air and transfer it to the incoming fresh air, which significantly reduces heating and cooling costs. This is particularly advantageous in regions with extreme seasonal climates, as it minimizes the demand on HVAC systems.

The unit is equipped with a high-efficiency ECM motor that operates quietly and consumes less energy compared to traditional motors. This technology not only contributes to lower energy bills but also ensures a more comfortable and peaceful indoor environment. The RNC120F,120ERV has adjustable airflow settings, allowing users to customize the level of ventilation according to their specific needs.

Another important characteristic of the Lifebreath RNC120F,120ERV is its compact design. It can easily be installed in tight spaces, making it suitable for a variety of home layouts and sizes. This versatility allows homeowners to benefit from improved air quality without sacrificing valuable living space.

The system also features a built-in filter that helps remove airborne particles, allergens, and pollutants, enhancing the overall air quality in the home. Regular maintenance and replacement of the filters are simple, ensuring that the unit continues to perform at its best.

In addition to its functional attributes, the RNC120F,120ERV is designed with durability in mind. It is constructed from high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of continuous operation in various environments. Furthermore, the unit meets strict energy efficiency standards, making it a responsible choice for environmentally conscious consumers.

Overall, the Lifebreath RNC120F,120ERV combines energy efficiency, advanced technology, and ease of use, making it an excellent investment for anyone looking to improve their indoor air quality while keeping energy costs low.
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